LI4 (Hegu) vs LR3 (Taichong) — Which Acupoint Is Right for You?

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Why Are Hegu and Taichong Often Compared?

In traditional Chinese medicine, Hegu and Taichong are called the ‘Four Gates’ (四關穴, Siguan). ‘Siguan’ means ‘four gates,’ referring to 2 on the hands (Hegu) + 2 on the feet (Taichong) = 4, hence the name.

Both are remarkable acupoints on their own, but pressing them together creates a synergistic effect that is immense! It’s like superheroes teaming up.

LI4 (Hegu) — The ‘All-Purpose Problem Solver’ on the Back of the Hand

Hegu is located in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. Its name means ‘where the valleys converge,’ and it is indeed found in the valley between the two fingers.

How to Find It

1. Open one hand wide
2. Look at the area between the thumb and index finger — you can see a web-like part, right?
3. Press the highest point (the most prominent part) there with the opposite thumb!
4. If you feel an achy sensation, you’ve got it!

When to Press It

• When you have a headache
• When your nose is congested or you feel a cold coming on
• When you have a toothache
• When your shoulders or neck are stiff

LR3 (Taichong) — The ‘Stress Relief Button’ on the Top of the Foot

Taichong is located on the top of the foot, between the big toe and second toe. ‘Tai’ (太) means ‘greatly rising,’ implying that it powerfully releases blocked energy.

How to Find It

1. Look at the top of your foot
2. From where the big toe and second toe diverge…
3. Go 2 finger-widths toward the ankle
4. There is a hollow between the bones — that’s the spot!

When to Press It

• When anger is rising
• When stress is so bad your head feels like it might explode
• When your eyes are bloodshot or fatigued
• When menstrual cramps are severe

Side-by-Side Comparison!

Which Is Right for Me?

• “My head feels foggy and heavy” → LI4 first!
• “I’m angry and getting a headache” → LR3 first!
• “I’m feeling a cold coming on” → LI4!
• “Stress is keeping me awake” → LR3!
• “Everything hurts” → Both!

What Happens If You Press Both? — The Power of the Four Gates!

Pressing LI4 (yang energy) + LR3 (yin energy) together balances the energy of your entire body. In traditional Chinese medicine, this is called ‘opening the Four Gates.’

Four Gates Routine (5 minutes)

1. Press LI4 (Hegu) for 1 minute on each hand (2 minutes total)
2. Press LR3 (Taichong) for 1 minute on each foot (2 minutes total)
3. Take 3 deep breaths at the end

This is the best combination for stress relief, headache alleviation, and overall condition recovery!

In Closing

LI4 resolves ‘physical problems’ and LR3 resolves ’emotional problems.’ If you’re unsure, press both — the Four Gates will never let you down!

Frequently Asked Questions