Gua sha, a traditional Chinese healing technique dating back thousands of years, has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its numerous uses and associated health benefits.
Gua sha involves gently scraping the skin's surface with a smooth-edged tool to stimulate blood circulation, release tension, and promote overall wellbeing.
From relieving pain and inflammation to enhancing skin health, the uses of Gua sha are diverse and highly beneficial. This article explains the benefits of Gua sha for your health and how to use Gua sha to achieve the best results.
11 Gua Sha Benefits
Gua sha is touted as being beneficial for numerous health and beauty concerns. Here we list some of the conditions that could be relieved by Gua sha. More studies are needed to prove the effectiveness of the treatment.
1. Reduces Inflammation
Gua sha could successfully reduce inflammation caused by infections such as Hepatitis B. This disease causes an increase in liver enzymes, which leads to liver damage, and in the most severe cases, to liver failure. Although more research is needed in this area, one study suggests that Gua sha decreases the number of liver enzymes in people with chronic hepatitis B infections.
Note: Read about how to reduce inflammation.
2. Supports Breastfeeding
Gua sha can help treat and prevent breast engorgement. This is a condition that occurs in women who have recently given birth but have had to be temporarily separated from their newborn for some reason. When this happens, the breasts overfill with milk, becoming swollen and painful. Gua sha relieves the discomfort from breast engorgement and helps the mother continue breastfeeding.
3. Relieves Migraines
One study suggests that Gua sha removes tension from this area and relieves patients from the pain caused by chronic migraines. However, more research is needed in this area.
4. Treats Symptoms of Perimenopause
Perimenopause includes symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, hot flashes, and irregular periods. Studies suggest that Gua sha treatments, combined with hormonal or other therapies recommended by your medical professional, may relieve the perimenopausal symptoms.
Note: For hormone replacement therapy in Phoenix, schedule a consultation with our experts at Vibrant Vitality Clinic.
5. May Relieve Tourette Symptoms
Tourette syndrome is a condition where patients experience sudden, involuntary tics and vocal outbursts. Although more research is needed in this area, one study found that Gua sha may help manage the symptoms of Tourette syndrome.
6. Relieves Neck Pain
Gua sha could be effective in treating chronic neck pain. One study suggests that, when combined with other methods, such as applying heating pads, Gua sha is successful in relieving neck pain.
7. Removes Puffiness
Gua sha improves circulation in soft tissues, helping to reduce inflammation, which is one of the main causes of puffiness and swelling. When combined with treatments such as lymphatic drainage or other massages, Gua sha is effective in treating puffiness and swelling in the face and other parts of the body.
Note: Our signature Lymphatic Lift treatment combines lymphatic drainage and buccal massage to reduce puffiness in the face by promoting blood flow and releasing toxins.
8. Reduces Wrinkles
Improved blood circulation is also effective in making wrinkles less pronounced and removing premature aging signs. While the Gua sha treatment does not remove wrinkles, it may contribute to better skin health, preventing fine lines from appearing.
9. Aids the Muscle Recovery
The better circulation that follows a Gua sha treatment also benefits muscle recovery after workouts. The treatment prevents the buildup of lactic acid in the muscles after intense exercise, the main cause of post-workout muscle pain.
10. Relieves Acne and Acne Scars
Gua sha successfully removes redness, helps clear congested skin, and improves blood flow, relieving acne breakouts. In addition, Gua sha is also potentially effective at reducing the appearance of acne scars since it promotes skin healing and speeds up scar tissue recovery.
Note: Learn about the best treatments for acne scars.
11. Removes Dark Circles and Dull Complexion
Gua sha improves blood flow in the face, removing dark circles around the eyes and the symptoms of tired or stressed skin. This contributes to a glowing appearance and youthful-looking skin.
How To Use Gua Sha
Gua sha is usually performed by skilled estheticians and acupuncturists. You can also learn to use the Gua sha stone on your own, following a consultation with your medical professional. Gua sha treatment involves several steps.
- Preparation – The practitioner prepares the skin by applying oil or a lotion to the treated area. This reduces friction and helps the tool to glide more easily over the skin.
- Tool choice – Before beginning the treatment, the practitioner chooses the appropriate tool for the part of the body that is treated. Gua sha tools come in various shapes and are made from different materials, including jade, rose quartz, black obsidian, amethyst, and stainless steel.
- Skin scraping – The treatment involves the practitioner repeatedly gliding over the skin with the tool, applying pressure at a specific angle. The scraping is typically done in one direction, usually in long strokes, following meridian pathways or specific areas of the body being treated. The pressure applied should be enough to produce therapeutic effects but not cause excessive pain or discomfort.
- Appearance of “sha” – As the scraping continues, a reddish or purplish discoloration known as "sha" may appear on the skin. The medical term for these spots is petechiae and they signal bleeding from capillaries under the skin. The spots clear after a few days.
- Aftercare – After the treatment, the practitioner may provide some post-treatment instructions, such as avoiding exposure to cold or wind, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous physical activity for a certain period. They may also recommend applying a soothing ointment or oil to the treated area to aid recovery.
How Often to Use Gua Sha?
The intensity and duration of the treatment vary depending on the individual's condition and the area being treated. For some, the best recommendation is to do Gua sha two or three times per week, while for others its once a day.
Make sure to consult your medical provider before undergoing Gua sha, so they can recommend the most beneficial frequency of treatments based on your specific symptoms, goals, and overall health.
When Not to Use Gua Sha?
Gua sha is considered safe for most people, provided the treatment is performed by an experienced practitioner.
People with the following conditions should avoid the treatment until their condition improves:
- Open wounds and sores
- Inflamed skin (psoriasis, eczema, rash)
- Sunburn
Patients taking blood thinners or those with blood clotting disorders should avoid Gua sha altogether.
Conclusion
Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that has been used for centuries as a therapeutic method to address various skin conditions and improve overall health. Gua sha is believed to help release stagnant and blocked energy, resulting in a range of potential benefits.
While Gua sha can provide relief and relaxation, it is important to approach this technique with caution and seek guidance from a trained practitioner. Proper technique and knowledge are crucial to ensure the treatment is safe and effective.
