#1 – Bian Stone
Bian stones are considered the best gua sha because they have the most ultrasonic pulses and the best frequency range.
The use of Bian stones for healing is centuries-old. The “Nei Jing,” an ancient Chinese medical book, lists “acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal medicine, Qigong, and Bian stone therapy” as the five effective medical practices of the “Yellow Emperor,” a deity in Chinese religion. What’s impressive is that Bian stone therapy predates acupuncture.
If you want to do Gua Sha the authentic way, use Bian stones.
#2 – Jade
Jade is our second-best pick for gua sha instruments. It is said to have qi energy that is very similar to the qi energy of the human body. As such, it is ideal for healing treatments.
In the olden times, barefoot doctors in China could not afford traditional gua sha tools, so they got scraps from jade carvers and used them as gua sha tools. Today, jade is still widely used for this healing technique.
Jade is yin and yang. It is an incredible stone but warms to the touch.
#3 – Buffalo Horn
Genuine Bian stones come from the village of Sibin in China. If you are unable to find Bian stones to use, Buffalo horn is another good option.
In Chinese medicine, a buffalo horn has a cold property and an acrid/salty flavor. The acridity improves qi and blood circulation, nourishes, and moistens. The saltiness, on the other hand, relaxes stiffness and softens hardness. Lastly, the cold dispels heat and gets rid of toxins in the body.
While American buffalo are off the endangered list, you worry about buffalo horns from getting jade, stone, or steel instead.
#4 – Stainless Steel
Medical-grade stainless steel tools are a popular choice for IASTM. This stands for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization and is simply a modern evolution of Gua Sha. (Gua Sha with a more clinical name?)
If you want more modern materials, you can consider Stainless steel or even Titanium implements.
#5 – Rose Quartz
Rose quartz is said to open the heart chakra and reduce tension in the heart. It is a beautiful stone that comes in a delicate pink color.
As a Gua Sha tool, it is smooth and a good weight. Others, though, find it hard to grip and prefer the buffalo horn or bian stone.
Summing Up
By doing this ancient form of healing, you’ll be managing your stress and diseases in more natural ways instead of relying on pharmaceuticals or more vices that only bring temporary relief.
Eat well, sleep well, and learn to listen to your body. Experiment with Gua Sha in treating your different ailments.