Guasha can significantly reduce pain through the release of anti-inflammatory chemicals, namely cytokine and nitrous oxide, which are both involved in the vasodilation of capillaries for increased blood flow and the inhibition of platelet adhesion. It promotes internal wound repair through cellular homeostasis and cyto-protective responses to cellular stresses.
The act of dredging the skin means stimulating the surface channels and tissues which move substances such as blood, qi, fluids and phlegm. This reduces stasis, making things become ‘unstuck’ and therefore lessens pain or discomfort. Through moving substances, it also has the effect of warming and nourishing the blood.
“Guasha is adaptogenic which means it helps the body better cope with stress by normalizing bodily functions and increasing resistance to these burdens. The action of scraping works by stimulating the pituitary gland which is responsible for regulating stress hormones, namely cortisol.”
Omayma Laing
