Gua Sha / Scraping

Gua sha, or scraping, is a method to release heat from the body. It is often used when the body is in a state of fever to eliminate internal heat. Similar to cupping, gua sha releases dead cell waste and detritus from the muscle. The results of gua sha can show as bruised or reddened skin. This bruising, while not harmful, can look severe, but will fade within 1-2 weeks as the body eliminates the waste from the body. Gua sha is performed using a scraping device such as a jade or plastic scraper, or a Chinese porcelain soup spoon. Liniment or oils are applied to the skin and rigorously scraped with the tool of choice. The treatment is therapeutic and patients often report relief afterwards.