Many people know about cupping and moxibustion, but one of the most fascinating therapies in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is Gua Sha. In recent years, Gua Sha has become a popular beauty treatment found in spas and skincare routines. However, its roots go far deeper—it’s an ancient healing therapy designed to move Qi and Blood for improved health and balance.

Even in some TCM colleges, Gua Sha often gets only a brief mention. After receiving hundreds of requests to talk about it, I’m thrilled to shine some light on this amazing therapy and its clinical applications.

Do you use Gua Sha therapy in your practice? Let me know in the comments below!

And no matter what, keep poking it with TCM! ☯️

Clara
TCM Geek

 A Quick History of Gua Sha

The term Gua Sha means “scraping sand,” referring to the light red dots (petechiae) that appear after treatment. These marks indicate the release of stagnation and improved micro-circulation.

This therapy was first mentioned in the Shang Han Lun, a classic TCM text on Cold Damage disorders. It later became widely practiced across Asia—particularly in Vietnam, where it’s called “scraping Wind.” This concept fits beautifully with the TCM goal of expelling external pathogens such as Wind and Cold.

In Indonesia and other countries, Gua Sha remains a common folk remedy for relieving pain and illness. Today, many acupuncturists integrate Gua Sha therapy daily in clinical practice.

Gua Sha Tools

Modern Gua Sha tools come in many shapes and materials—jade, rose quartz, wood, ceramic, or stainless steel. Some practitioners even use simple household items like a ceramic spoon!

In cases of Yang deficiency with fatigue, a slice of ginger soaked in rice wine can be used for scraping along the back (from cervical to sacral areas) to gently warm and move Qi.

Gua Sha Techniques

To perform Gua Sha therapy, apply a light oil or lubricant to the skin. Hold the tool at a 30-45° angle, press gently, and stroke along the muscle fibers in one direction or back and forth.

Each session typically lasts 2–5 minutes, with strokes about 10–18 cm long. Common treatment areas include:

• Neck and shoulders

• Upper, middle, and lower back

• Iliotibial band (IT band)

• Soles of the feet

• The face, jawline, and forehead (using gentle facial Gua Sha)

Therapeutic Effects of Gua Sha

The main purpose of Gua Sha therapy is to move Blood and Qi, release fascia, and improve lymphatic drainage. It helps relieve:

• Muscle pain and stiffness

• Inflammation and joint tension

• Respiratory conditions (coughs, colds)

• Fatigue and sluggish circulation

Facial Gua Sha, performed with gentle pressure, can reduce puffiness, lift facial contours, and smooth fine lines—making it both therapeutic and rejuvenating.

After treatment, it’s best to drink plenty of water to support detoxification and circulation.

Contraindications & Safety Tips

Always practice Gua Sha with care:

• Avoid excessive pressure—light petechiae are ideal.

• Never use over bones or the spine.

• Do not perform on broken skin, burns, bruises, or rashes.

• Avoid in patients with blood disorders (leukemia, anemia) or those taking anticoagulants.

When applied mindfully, Gua Sha therapy is a safe, effective, and deeply healing TCM technique.

Final Thoughts

Gua Sha therapy connects us to the ancient art of healing through touch, circulation, and energy movement. Whether you use it clinically or as part of your self-care routine, it remains one of the most versatile and accessible tools in Traditional Chinese Medicine.