Cạo Gió, also known as coining or coin rubbing, is a traditional folk remedy practiced for centuries, particularly in Vietnam. This article explores Cạo Gió, its traditional uses, and what modern science says about its health implications.
What is Cạo Gió?
Cạo Gió involves rubbing the skin with a smooth-edged object in specific patterns. Common tools include coins, spoons, or other blunt items, sometimes made of silver or buffalo horn. A lubricant like medicated oil or balm is applied to the skin to reduce friction. The practitioner applies moderate pressure, stroking the tool downwards and outwards along areas like the back, neck, shoulders, or chest.
Rubbing continues until red or purplish marks, resembling bruises, appear on the skin. These marks are believed to indicate the release of “bad wind” or toxins from the body. The process lasts for a few minutes in each area, or until the skin shows significant reddening.
Traditional Beliefs and Common Uses
In traditional Vietnamese medicine, “wind” (gío) is central to understanding illness. Symptoms like colds, headaches, and body aches are believed to be caused by “toxic wind” entering the body. Cạo Gió is traditionally used to “scrape” or “expel” this harmful element, restoring balance.
People use Cạo Gió for minor ailments such as colds, flu-like symptoms, and headaches. It is also used for muscle aches, fatigue, dizziness, and mild fevers. Traditional practitioners believe the method improves blood circulation and promotes overall relaxation.
Scientific Understanding and Health Implications
Despite its traditional use, limited scientific evidence supports Cạo Gió’s efficacy for specific medical conditions. From a modern medical perspective, proposed mechanisms for perceived benefits include counter-irritation, which can temporarily alleviate pain by stimulating nerve endings, or increased local blood flow. The placebo effect, where belief in treatment leads to improvement, may contribute to feelings of relief.
The practice carries health implications. Cạo Gió can cause skin damage, including bruising, broken capillaries, and abrasions. There is also a risk of local infection if tools are not properly sterilized or if the skin barrier is compromised.
A concern is the potential for misdiagnosis, as individuals might use Cạo Gió for serious underlying conditions, delaying appropriate medical treatment. Cạo Gió is not recommended for individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or skin infections. It is also advised against for pregnant women and young children due to their delicate skin.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While Cạo Gió is a common folk remedy, it should not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment for serious health concerns. Seek medical advice for severe, persistent, or worsening symptoms, including high or prolonged fever, severe pain that does not resolve, or difficulty breathing.
Seek immediate medical attention for unexplained bruising, neurological symptoms such as sudden weakness, numbness, or facial paralysis. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or bleeding disorders should consult a healthcare professional before attempting Cạo Gió, as it may pose risks. Any signs of infection at the site of Cạo Gió, such as increased redness, swelling, pus, or fever, warrant medical evaluation.