The Healing Power of Bian Stone

For thousands of years, Bian stone has been treasured in Chinese medicine for massage and healing. Today, science shows why: this rare stone naturally emits far-infrared (FIR) energy — part of the same therapeutic spectrum used in infrared saunas and thermal therapy devices.

What Science Tells Us

Research confirms that authentic Bian stone emits FIR in the 8–14 μm range with a high emissivity of 0.923 (Xie et al., 2011). Another study found it retains and steadily releases warmth, making it ideal for massage and therapeutic use (Zhang et al., 2016).

In plain terms, Bian stone acts like a mini infrared sauna for your skin and muscles — delivering gentle, localized FIR that works best when combined with Gua Sha massage.

The Benefits of FIR from Bian Stone

Modern studies on FIR therapy highlight a wide range of benefits. When applied through Bian stone massage, these effects can be experienced in a gentler, targeted way:

1. Boosts circulation & oxygen delivery

• FIR penetrates the skin to improve microcirculation.

• Massaging with a Bian stone Gua Sha enhances this effect.

2. Relaxes muscles & eases discomfort

• FIR reduces stiffness and encourages relaxation.

• When used on the jaw, forehead, neck, or shoulders, Bian stone helps release tension and soothe tight muscles.

3. Calms inflammation & puffiness

• FIR has documented anti-inflammatory effects.

• With gentle-moderate pressure Gua Sha strokes, the stone’s warmth helps reduce swelling, puffiness, and soothe stressed cells.

4. Supports skin healing

• FIR has been shown to accelerate wound repair in studies.

• In skincare, this translates to soothing inflammation and supporting recovery after stress.

5. Enhances detoxification & lymphatic flow

• FIR stimulates circulation, while Gua Sha helps drain excess fluids.

• Together, they support the body’s natural lymphatic detox process, helping clear stagnation and encourage healthier flow throughout the system.
  

•  Improves skin tone and more defined facial contours.

6. Promotes deep relaxation

• FIR warmth activates the body’s calming (parasympathetic) response.

• Combined with massage, Bian stone provides grounding, stress relief, and a sense of rejuvenation.

The Glowstone Advantage

Our Glowstone Gua Sha is carved from authentic Bian stone and shaped with multiple, unique edges to unlock these FIR benefits:

• Rounded precision tips for pressure points and to release tension headaches.

• Comb-like edge to smooth adhesions in fascia.
  

• Curved edges fit around the jaw and mid-face. 

• V-shaped edge to release knots in the neck, shoulders and back.

• Smooth edge for use on larger areas.

By blending natural FIR energy with the sculpting action of Gua Sha, Glowstone offers both visible results and deep body relaxation.

References

• Xie, X., Wang, R., Sun, Y., & Lo, C. (2011). Petrological and Mineralogical Studies of the Sibin Bian-Stone. Springer Link

• Zhang, J., et al. (2016). Performance of a Novel Solar Assisted Bian Stone Thermal Therapy. International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, 99, 287–295. ScienceDirect

• Toyokawa, H., et al. (2003). Promotive effects of far-infrared ray on full-thickness skin wound healing in rats. Exp Biol Med, 228(6), 724–729.

• Beever, R. (2009). Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors: Summary of published evidence. Can Fam Physician, 55(9), 691–696. NCBI

• Vatansever, F., & Hamblin, M. R. (2012). Infrared-A: Therapeutic Applications and Mechanisms of Action. Photochem Photobiol, 88(4), 961–974. NCBI