Zhongfu (LU1) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Location and Acupressure Method

What is Zhongfu?

Zhongfu (LU1) is an acupoint on the Lung Meridian of Hand-Greater Yin, which is the starting point of the Lung meridian. ‘Zhong’ means central and ‘Fu’ means region. It is an important acupoint that strengthens lung function and promotes respiratory health. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is frequently used to treat lung-related conditions such as cough, asthma, and chest pain.

How to Locate the Exact Position

Step 1: Find the area below the clavicle.
Step 2: Move down approximately 1 cun (about 1.3 cm) below the clavicle.
Step 3: Find a location approximately 6 cun (about 18 cm) lateral to the midline at the center of the neck.
Step 4: Zhongfu is the point where you feel slight tenderness when pressing the hollow area between the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor muscles.

Acupressure Technique

Position: Sit or stand comfortably.
Fingers: Use your thumb or middle finger.
Pressure: Press slowly and deeply, applying enough pressure to feel slight tenderness without pain.
Duration: Apply for 1-2 minutes per session, repeating 2-3 times daily.
Breathing: The effect is enhanced when performing acupressure while taking deep breaths.

Primary Benefits

• Relieves cough: Improves dry cough or cough with phlegm.
• Alleviates asthma symptoms: Relieves shortness of breath and asthmatic episodes.
• Relieves chest pain: Improves chest pain related to the lungs and heart.
• Alleviates shoulder pain: Releases tension in the shoulder and neck muscles.
• Improves breathing: Enhances lung function to promote deep and easy breathing.

When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

Optimal time: Best in the morning after waking up or in the evening before bedtime.
Situational use: It’s effective to apply acupressure immediately when coughing, experiencing shortness of breath, feeling chest tightness, or when shoulders feel tight.
Prevention: Applying acupressure in advance during seasons when respiratory health is vulnerable (seasonal transitions and winter) helps prevent illness.

Precautions

Contraindications: Professional consultation is necessary if you are pregnant or have serious cardiopulmonary disease.
Pressure control: Avoid excessive stimulation and maintain gentle pressure that produces slight tenderness.
Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before applying acupressure.
Medical consultation: If symptoms persist, consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or physician.