What does the appearance of sha during Gua Sha therapy indicate?

Dec 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the appearance of petechiae (sha) after Gua Sha in traditional Chinese medicine may indicate excessive dampness in the body or accumulation of toxins. After Gua Sha, the skin will experience a certain degree of damage and inflammatory response; therefore, it is important to protect the skin and prevent infection. It is not advisable to take a cold water shower within 30 minutes after Gua Sha to avoid the invasion of cold pathogens, which may negatively affect health.

Generally, the appearance of痧 (sha) after scraping in traditional Chinese medicine may indicate excessive dampness in the body or accumulation of toxins. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Scraping therapy is a form of traditional Chinese treatment that involves applying pressure on the skin to stimulate meridians, improve blood circulation, and eliminate dampness and toxins. The appearance of "sha" refers to the emergence of red, purple, or dark-colored spots or streaks on the skin during or after scraping. When a significant amount of sha appears, such as localized redness, swelling, or bruising, it typically indicates excessive dampness or toxin buildup within the body. Furthermore, according to TCM theory, the appearance of sha is considered a process through which internal pathogenic factors are expelled from the body via the skin, helping to regulate bodily functions and restore balance between yin and yang.

After scraping, the skin may experience some degree of damage and an inflammatory response; therefore, it is important to protect the skin and prevent infection. It is also advised not to take a cold shower within 30 minutes after scraping to avoid invasion by cold pathogens.

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Can scraping (Gua Sha) cause HIV infection?

Whether scraping therapy (Gua Sha) can cause AIDS needs to be analyzed according to specific circumstances. Properly performed Gua Sha with thoroughly disinfected instruments typically does not result in infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, in cases of improper Gua Sha where instruments are not adequately disinfected and there is contact with blood from an individual with AIDS, there may be a low and rare risk of infection, especially if the skin is broken.

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What are the scraping locations for tonsil diseases in Gua Sha therapy?

Under normal circumstances, common diseases of the tonsils include tonsillitis and enlarged tonsils. When treating tonsil diseases, scraping therapy can be performed on specific acupoints such as Baihui (GV20), Dazhui (GV14), Quchi (LI11), Shaoshang (LU11), and TianTu (CV22). However, please note that scraping therapy carries certain risks. Therefore, it is recommended to perform the procedure under the guidance of a qualified physician to avoid self-treatment.

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What are the benefits and drawbacks of facial Gua Sha?

Under normal circumstances, the benefits of facial Gua Sha include promoting blood circulation, relieving muscle tension, improving skin elasticity, facilitating lymphatic detoxification, and enhancing skincare product absorption. Potential drawbacks include skin damage, risk of infection, allergic reactions, exacerbation of skin conditions, and skin laxity. It is recommended to perform Gua Sha under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, ensuring appropriate pressure and correct technique.

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What are the effects and functions of Gua Sha and cupping therapy?

Gua Sha can remove dampness and toxins, promote blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, regulate yin-yang balance, and clear internal heat. Cupping therapy can unblock meridians, activate blood circulation to remove blood stasis, dispel wind and cold, regulate organ functions, and detoxify to improve complexion. Both are traditional Chinese medical treatments. Although they offer many benefits, they should be performed with caution and not too frequently. It is also recommended to undergo these treatments under a doctor's guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.