Guasha (scraping) Therapy

Based on the theory of meridians and acupionts, it is a therapy to improve local microcirculation, activate blood circulation in order to remove blood stagnation and eliminate pathogenic factors. It is done by scraping and rubbing repeatedly the body surface until red or dark-red spots occur. Special scraping tools and liniment are used in treatment. The scraping tools made of sheep or ox horn, fresh bamboo, and ceramics must have smooth edge. Small spoon, coin, and even a button can be used as the scraping tool.

Guasha（Scarping）tools made of ox horn

Guasha（Scarping）tools made of wood

Guasha（Scarping）tools made of agate

Portions of this article were adapted from research materials originally published on the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine website.