Gua Sha 刮痧 is a traditional East Asian medicine treatment that involves the therapeutic application of a tool that is scraped along surface of the skin. This activates circulation and releases entrapped metabolites beneath the surface of the skin, that together offer anti-inflammatory and pro-immune effect to benefit healing.

The term “sha” 痧 in the context of this therapeutic strategy, refers to the expression of underlying entrapment held within the body that might be of a “sandy” texture (tiny raised red bumps on the surface of the skin). As it should not be stuck in the body, its release into the body’s normal metabolic process is beneficial. “Gua” 刮 is defined as “scrape” or “shave” or “smear” and thus, refers to a relatively superficial technique where a smooth edged instrument is applied in a series of short press-strokes across the skin, prepared with a liniment or oil. Gua Sha may result in marks on the the surface of the skin that is scraped. These marks are not indicative of bruising, however; a bruise or contusion (a “black and blue”) results from release of blood from the vessels due to injury. These marks are the collection of small red dots, or petechiae. They may vary in range, as well as depth of color; typically the marks will last from 2 - 7 days and fade over time.

Gua Sha is used in treatment to address pain (acute and chronic) syndromes and regions of muscular tension, as well as cases of the common cold, flu, bronchitis, asthma.