Interestingly, women's expertise in Gua Sha wasn’t just acknowledged in their communities—it was often revered. A classic text from the Qing dynasty, Sha Zhang Yu Heng (Jade Standard for Sand-rashes and Swellings), makes special note of how villagers used coins dipped in oil to perform Gua Sha, and how women were "unmatched in their skill," even surpassing renowned doctors.

​This elevation of women’s proficiency challenges the traditional narrative, which often casts men or formal institutions as the sole keepers of medical wisdom. In the case of Gua Sha, it was the women who were the true masters, passing down their unparalleled expertise to the next generation without fanfare or formal recognition.

The oral transmission of Gua Sha from mother to daughter helped preserve this practice across centuries. Unlike written texts, which were often reserved for the elite or educated men, the oral tradition allowed everyday women to carry forward these healing techniques in their own households.

This method of passing down knowledge wasn’t just practical—it was deeply personal. The act of teaching Gua Sha involved close physical contact, fostering a sense of care and intimacy that went beyond healing. Women shared not just the technique but the heart of the practice, creating bonds that could span generations.

​For many women, this legacy was more than just a family tradition—it was an empowering skill set that enabled them to care for their loved ones and contribute to the health of their communities. In a world where their contributions were often overlooked or forgotten, Gua Sha became a way for them to assert their value and role within society.