Guasha（刮痧）
Traditional Healing for Modern Life
What is Gua Sha in Chinese Medicine?
Gua Sha (刮痧) is a traditional healing technique in Chinese medicine that involves gently scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool, typically made from jade, buffalo horn, or ceramic. The word “Gua” means to scrape, and “Sha” refers to the red or purple marks that appear on the skin after treatment.
In TCM, Gua Sha is used to release stagnation of Qi (vital energy) and blood, promote circulation, and support the body’s natural detoxification process. It’s commonly used for pain relief, tension release, immune support, and even emotional stress.
Who is Benefits from Guasha?
Gua Sha is suitable for a wide range of conditions and individuals. You may benefit from Gua Sha if you experience:
- Muscle and joint pain (especially neck, shoulders, and back)
- Tension headaches or migraines
- Fatigue or low immunity
- Cough, cold, or respiratory congestion
- Poor circulation or cold hands and feet
- Chronic stress or anxiety
- Digestive issues related to Qi stagnation
It can also support recovery after physical exertion, emotional stress, or seasonal changes.
What Do the GuaSha Marks Mean?
After a Gua Sha treatment, red or purple marks (called “Sha”) often appear on the skin. These are not bruises, but signs that stagnant blood and toxins are being released from deeper layers of the body.
The color and pattern of the marks give insight into your health condition:
- Light red or pink: Mild stagnation, often seen in healthy individuals
- Dark red or purple: Stronger stagnation or chronic blockage
- Spotted or patchy Sha: Possible cold or dampness in the body
- Quick fading: Good circulation and faster recovery
- Slow fading (5–7 days): Indicates deeper stagnation or poor circulation
Your practitioner will interpret these patterns and may adjust treatment based on your body’s response.
Who Should Avoid Guasha?
While Gua Sha is generally safe when performed by a trained practitioner, it may not be suitable for everyone. You should avoid Gua Sha if you:
- Are taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder
- Have a fever or active skin infection
- Are pregnant (especially on the abdomen or lower back)
- Have fragile skin or severe sunburn
- Recently had surgery or a serious medical procedure
If you are unsure, please consult your Chinese medicine practitioner before booking a session.
What to Do After a Gua Sha Treatment?
To support your body’s healing and recovery after Gua Sha, we recommend:
- Keep warm and avoid wind or cold drafts for at least 24 hours
- Drink plenty of warm water to flush out toxins
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals immediately after treatment
- Rest if possible, as your body is working to restore balance
- Let the Sha marks fade naturally—do not rub or scrub the treated area
Most people feel lighter, more relaxed, and energized after Gua Sha, though some may experience temporary soreness. This is part of the body’s natural healing response.
Experience GuaSha at Our Clinic
Gua Sha is suitable for a wide range of conditions and individuals. We have lots of successful cases
At our TCM clinic, Gua Sha is often combined with other treatments such as acupuncture, cupping, or herbal therapy for greater effect. All treatments are tailored to your individual constitution and health concerns.
Whether you’re looking for relief from physical pain, stress reduction, or a natural way to support your immune system—Gua Sha is a gentle and effective therapy rooted in centuries of wisdom.
Book your Gua Sha session today and discover the healing power of traditional Chinese medicine.