Catching a Cold Early Is Key
Scratchy throat, runny nose, body chills… We all know that moment when cold symptoms start creeping in. Before reaching for medicine — or alongside it — acupressure can help speed up recovery. Here are the acupressure points that boost immunity and reduce cold symptoms!
1. Hegu (LI4) — The All-Purpose Cold Fighter
Where is it?
In the webbing between your thumb and index finger. Look for the fleshy mound when you spread your fingers apart.
How to press
- Press Hegu firmly with the opposite thumb
- Press for 3-5 seconds, rest for 3 seconds — repeat 10 times
- You’ve found the right spot when you feel a deep ache with a refreshing sensation
Benefits: Effective for headaches, fever, and neck pain — all common cold symptoms. Also helps strengthen immunity.
2. Lieque (LU7) — Great for Cough and Sore Throat
Where is it?
On the bony prominence on the thumb side of the wrist. Located 1.5 finger-widths above the wrist crease toward the elbow.
How to press
- Press the bony prominence with the opposite thumb
- Press for 3-5 seconds, rest for 3 seconds — 10 times on each side
- Slightly rotating the wrist while pressing feels even better
Benefits: A key point on the Lung meridian. Particularly effective for cough, sore throat, and phlegm.
3. Dazhui (GV14) — Reduces Fever and Boosts Immunity
Where is it?
Just below the most prominent bone (7th cervical vertebra) when you tilt your head forward. At the junction where the neck meets the back.
How to press
- Press Dazhui firmly with the middle finger
- Press for 5 seconds, rest for 3 seconds — repeat 10 times
- Rubbing it warmly helps reduce chills
Benefits: Excellent for early-stage chills and fever. Raises yang energy to boost immunity.
4. Yingxiang (LI20) — Clears a Stuffy Nose
Where is it?
On both sides of the nostrils, in the hollow where the nose meets the cheek along the nasolabial fold.
How to press
- Press both sides of the nostrils simultaneously with both index fingers
- Press for 3 seconds, rest for 3 seconds — repeat 10 times
- Gently rubbing up and down also works well
Benefits: Provides immediate relief for nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. You’ll feel instant nasal relief when pressing.
5. Zusanli (ST36) — Physical Recovery and Immune Boost
Where is it?
About 4 finger-widths below the kneecap on the outer side. Find the bulging muscle on the outer side of the shinbone.
How to press
- Press firmly on the outer muscle beside the shinbone with your thumb
- Press for 5 seconds, rest for 3 seconds — 10 times on each leg
- It’s okay to press somewhat firmly — a deep ache with a refreshing sensation is ideal
Benefits: Boosts physical stamina and strengthens immunity. The best acupressure point when you’re feeling drained from a cold.
Quick Comparison!
| Acupoint | Location | Best For | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hegu LI4 | Hand webbing | Overall cold, headache | Easy |
| Lieque LU7 | Above wrist, thumb side | Cough, sore throat | Medium |
| Dazhui GV14 | Below prominent neck bone | Chills, fever, immunity | Medium |
| Yingxiang LI20 | Both sides of nostrils | Nasal congestion, instant relief | Easy |
| Zusanli ST36 | Below knee, outer side | Stamina recovery, immunity | Easy |
Synergy Combinations!
- Hegu + Lieque: Stimulating both the Lung and Large Intestine meridians simultaneously reduces cold symptoms quickly.
- Yingxiang + Hegu: The best combination for severe nasal congestion. Your nose will clear right up.
- Dazhui + Zusanli: A combination that boosts immunity from both top and bottom. Great for cold prevention too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is acupressure effective at the early stage of a cold?
Yes, pressing acupressure points as soon as you feel cold symptoms coming on can help prevent them from worsening.
Which is the best acupressure point for a stuffy nose?
Yingxiang (LI20) is the most effective. Pressing both sides of the nostrils for 30 seconds to 1 minute can immediately help clear the nasal passages.
Can I do acupressure when I have a fever?
For a mild fever, gently rubbing Dazhui (GV14) can help. However, if your temperature exceeds 38.5°C (101.3°F), please see a doctor.
Can I do acupressure regularly to prevent colds?
Yes, pressing Zusanli (ST36) and Hegu (LI4) daily can help strengthen your immune system.
Can I do acupressure on children for colds?
Yes, it’s possible for children too. However, use much lighter pressure than for adults — gentle rubbing is sufficient.
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