What is LI18?
LI18 (Futu) is an acupoint on the Large Intestine meridian (LI), located on the lateral side of the neck. The character “Fu” (富) means abundance, and “Tu” (突) means protruding, referring to its location at the lateral aspect of the thyroid cartilage which protrudes outward. This is an excellent acupoint for treating throat-related symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and hoarseness.
How to Find the Exact Location
Step 1: From the front of the neck, locate the thyroid cartilage (the protruding part below the Adam’s apple).
Step 2: Find the location approximately 3 cun (about 9 cm) lateral to the thyroid cartilage, in the direction of the ear.
Step 3: It is located between the sternocleidomastoid muscle (the muscle that protrudes when tilting the head to the side).
Step 4: When you press this area with your finger, you should feel a slight soreness. This is the exact location.
Acupressure Method
Preparation: Sit in a comfortable position and tilt your neck slightly to the side.
Acupressure method: Slowly apply pressure to LI18 using your thumb or index finger. Maintain moderate pressure intensity at a level where you feel a “sore” sensation rather than intense stimulation.
Duration: Apply acupressure for 1-2 minutes at a time, massaging gently in circular motions. Do not press too hard.
Frequency: Apply pressure to both sides equally. 2-3 times daily, 1-2 minutes per session is appropriate.
Key Benefits
- Sore throat relief: Quickly alleviates discomfort from neck pain and sore throat
- Cough suppression: Calms symptoms of dry cough and cough with phlegm
- Hoarseness improvement: Improves symptoms when the voice is weak or strained
- Neck fatigue relief: Alleviates neck fatigue after prolonged speaking
- Airway opening: Clears the throat airway for easier breathing
When is it good to apply acupressure?
It is beneficial when you have a sore throat from a cold, when your voice is hoarse, after prolonged speaking, or when you have a severe dry cough. Applying acupressure before bed also helps improve sleep quality. In addition to treating symptoms, it is also beneficial to apply acupressure 2-3 times per week for preventive purposes.
Precautions
Since blood vessels and nerves pass through the area around LI18, avoid overly strong stimulation. If you are pregnant, have severe inflammation in the throat, or have thyroid disease, consult a healthcare professional before applying acupressure. Rest comfortably for at least 5 minutes after acupressure. If the stimulated area swells or severe pain persists, seek medical examination. For children, it is safer to apply acupressure with gentle intensity under parental guidance.
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