LI4 (Hegu, 合谷) is one of the most widely known acupoints in traditional East Asian medicine. As the 4th acupoint of the Large Intestine Meridian, it is used to relieve various symptoms including headaches, toothaches, colds, and stress. It is known as an “all-purpose acupoint” because even beginners can find it easily.
How to Find LI4 (Hegu)
Hegu is located in the hollow between the thumb and index finger, at the midpoint of the 2nd metacarpal bone (index finger bone).
3 Easy Steps to Find It
- Open your hand and spread your thumb and index finger apart.
- Press the V-shaped area between the thumb and index finger with the opposite thumb.
- While pushing toward the index finger bone (2nd metacarpal), the most achy spot is Hegu.
Tip: When you press your thumb and index finger together, the highest point of the muscle that bulges up is Hegu.
Main Benefits of LI4 (Hegu)
In traditional East Asian medicine, Hegu is known as the representative acupoint for “face and mouth” (面口) conditions. It is used for the following symptoms:
- Headache/migraine: Effective for relieving tension headaches, frontal headaches, and temporal headaches
- Toothache: Relieves pain in upper and lower teeth and gum swelling
- Early cold symptoms: Runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, mild fever
- Stress/tension: Autonomic nervous system regulation, psychological calming
- Facial pain: Assist treatment for trigeminal neuralgia and facial paralysis
- Constipation: Promotes intestinal motility
- Eye fatigue: Relieves eye fatigue after prolonged screen use
Self-Acupressure Technique (5-Minute Routine)
Basic Acupressure
- Position: Sit comfortably and take a few calming breaths.
- Thumb pressure: Find Hegu with the opposite thumb and press perpendicularly.
- Intensity: Press to the point where you feel a slightly achy yet refreshing sensation (de-qi sensation).
- Timing: Press for 3–5 seconds, then rest for 2 seconds. Repeat.
- Repetitions: 1–2 minutes per side, apply to both hands.
Circular Massage Technique
While pressing Hegu with the thumb, draw small circles clockwise for 30 seconds. This method is particularly effective for headache relief.
Precautions
- Do not apply continuous stimulation for more than 5 minutes at once.
- Avoid areas with wounds, inflammation, or infection.
- After acupressure, drink plenty of water to help flush out waste products.
Acupoint Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Acupoint Code | LI4 (Large Intestine 4) |
| Chinese Name | 合谷 (Hegu) |
| Meridian | Hand Yangming Large Intestine meridian |
| Location | Between thumb and index finger, midpoint of 2nd metacarpal |
| Difficulty | Easy (recommended for beginners) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I press LI4 (Hegu) every day?
Yes, for healthy adults it is safe to press 2–3 times a day, for 1–2 minutes each time. However, avoid excessive stimulation.
When is the best time to press LI4 (Hegu)?
It’s best to apply it right when you feel a headache or stress. For preventive purposes, include it in your morning and evening routine.
What acupoints work well together with LI4 (Hegu)?
For headaches, pressing with LR3 (Taichong) is effective (Four Gates combination). For colds, use it together with GB20 (Fengchi).
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