Coin rubbing, also known as Gua Sha, is a traditional Chinese and Southeast Asian healing technique involving rubbing a smooth-edged tool across the skin to stimulate blood circulation and promote healing.
- The skin is first lubricated with oil or balm.
- A smooth-edged tool, such as a coin, ceramic spoon, or jade stone, is used to apply pressure and stroke the skin in one direction.
- This process causes petechiae (small, pinpoint bruises) to appear on the skin, which typically fade within a few days.
- In TCM, it’s believed that illness and pain can stem from stagnant qi (life force energy) and blood.
- Gua Sha is thought to release these stagnant elements, restoring the natural flow of qi and blood in the body.
- Potential benefits: Improved circulation, reduced muscle pain, lessened inflammation, and possible anti-aging benefits (though more research is needed).
- Risks: Minor burns (if using heated oil), bruising, and skin irritation are possible, especially if the technique is done improperly or with excessive pressure.
- Contraindications: Avoid Gua Sha on injured or irritated skin, areas with malignant tumors, and during pregnancy or menstruation. Consult with a healthcare professional before trying if you have bleeding disorders, take blood thinners, or have certain chronic conditions like diabetes.
- Coining can be mistaken for child or elder abuse, especially in cultures unfamiliar with the practice.
- While some studies suggest benefits like increased circulation and reduced muscle pain, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of Gua Sha.
- [According to the California Childcare Health Program] , folk remedies like coining are often used due to economic factors and limited access to conventional medicine.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before trying any traditional or alternative therapies.
What are the benefits of coin rubbing?
There are many other meta-theories behind the perceived effectiveness of coining. Coining is believed to stimulate different meridian points of the body, thus regulating blood flow in order to remove “heatiness” through the skin. We believe coining therapy could relieve fever to some degree.
What is the coin rubbing technique?
Coining is performed by taking a hard object with a smooth edge such as a coin and rubbing it along the skin in linear fashion until the a bruise is present. This can be painful as the bigger the bruise, the more effective this practice it thought to be.
What is coining therapy used for?
I can help with that. Coining, or cao gio (pronounced gow yaw), is a common Southeast Asian alternative treatment for minor illnesses such as cold, flu, headache, fever, pain, cough, or low energy.
Who should avoid gua sha?
Great question! Gua sha is typically considered very safe, but there are some people who should not undergo this treatment. That includes people with conditions that impact their skin or veins or who have disorders that cause easy bleeding or injury. Open or healing wounds, tumors or infections are also reasons to avoid gua sha.