Gua Sha has many contraindications. For example: cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney dysfunction, liver and kidney failure, leukemia, and patients taking anticoagulants.
Expert Explanation
Nie Bin
Chief TCM Physician
Professor
Doctor of Medicine
Master’s Supervisor in Acupuncture and Tuina
Gua Sha Techniques 01
Head Gua Sha Techniques
When scraping the head, do not apply excessive force, as the bruises are not visible on the scalp. Excessive force can easily damage the scalp and cause headaches.
Key Points for Head Gua Sha
Use the Bai Hui (Hundred Meetings) point as the center
Scrape in four directions: up, down, left, and right
10-20 times in each direction
02
Back Gua Sha Techniques
Do not scrape over bony protrusions with excessive force, as this can easily damage the skin. When performing Gua Sha on the back, apply more lubricant to ensure the acupoints are scraped thoroughly. Avoid scraping over bony areas and regions with less muscle to prevent injury.
Considerations for Gua Sha 01 Poor Appetite
Those with poor appetite need to be cautious, as this indicates insufficient nutrient absorption and weak Qi and blood. Therefore, do not perform Gua Sha on an empty stomach; wait at least half an hour after eating. Gua Sha can be very effective for poor appetite.
Key Gua Sha Points: primarily on the abdomen, including Shang Wan (Upper Epigastrium), Zhong Wan (Middle Epigastrium), Xia Wan (Lower Epigastrium), Tian Shu (Heavenly Pivot), and Zu San Li (Leg Three Miles).
02After Overeating or Alcohol Consumption
It is not recommended to perform Gua Sha after overeating or consuming alcohol, as it can easily damage Qi and blood.
03Wait an Hour After Gua Sha Before Showering
During Gua Sha, the pores are opened, and exposure to cold air can lead to the absorption of pathogenic Qi. Therefore, avoid air conditioning and fans during Gua Sha. Rest for an hour after Gua Sha before showering.
Contraindications for Gua Sha
Gua Sha has many contraindications. For example: cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney dysfunction, liver and kidney failure, leukemia, and patients taking anticoagulants.
Gua Sha Timing
Best Time for Gua Sha: 9 AM – 11 AM
Not Recommended Time for Gua Sha: Afternoon and evening (detrimental to Qi and blood, affects sleep)
Editor: Jin Xiaomin