Author: Acupoint Guide Editorial Team

Acid Reflux? Press These 5 Points for Natural Relief
One-Line Summary: Acid reflux symptoms can be relieved through self-acupressure on five acupoints—Zhongwan, Zusanli, Neiguan, Sanyinjiao, and Taichong—and regular practice can improve digestive function.

Introduction

Have you ever experienced acid reflux at night or a burning sensation in your chest area? Acid reflux is a common digestive issue in modern life, increasing due to stress, irregular eating habits, and consumption of irritating foods. While medication is important, acupoint acupressure in traditional medicine activates the body’s natural healing abilities to fundamentally relieve acid reflux symptoms. Self-acupressure is particularly popular because it can be performed anytime, anywhere, and without cost. This article explains in detail the five most effective acupoints for acid reflux relief and the correct acupressure techniques.

Five Effective Acupoints for Acid Reflux

1. Zhongwan (中脘) — CV12

Location: Approximately 4 cun (about 12 cm or the width of four fingers) directly above the umbilicus. It is located at the midpoint between the end of the sternum and the umbilicus.

Benefit: Zhongwan is the central acupoint for digestive function, normalizing gastric acid secretion and promoting gastric peristalsis. It immediately relieves acid reflux, indigestion, and abdominal bloating, and consistent acupressure improves long-term gastric health.

Technique: Sit or lie in a comfortable position, then place the tip of your thumb vertically on Zhongwan. Slowly press for 5 seconds and release for 5 seconds, repeating about 10-15 times per session. Start gently and gradually increase pressure.

2. Zusanli (足三里) — ST36

Location: About 4 cun (approximately 12 cm) below the outer side of the knee. It is located at the point where the muscle beside the tibia begins when moving downward from the depression below the knee toward the toes.

Benefit: Zusanli is known as the “immunity acupoint” and strengthens overall immune function as well as improves digestive function. It restores digestive function weakened by acid reflux and addresses the root cause of digestive symptoms by enhancing bodily energy.

Technique: Sit comfortably with your legs extended and slowly apply pressure to Zusanli with your thumb. Repeat pressing for 3-5 seconds and releasing 15-20 times, performing on both legs for the same duration.

3. Neiguan (內關) — PC6

Location: On the inner side of the wrist, approximately 3 cun (about 6-7 cm) from the fingers toward the elbow. It is located between the two tendons visible when the wrist is flexed (in the depression between the tendons).

Benefit: Neiguan rapidly relieves nausea and vomiting by stabilizing the nervous system and improving stress-related gastric symptoms. It normalizes digestive function by alleviating discomfort from acid reflux and regulating autonomic nervous system imbalance.

Technique: Extend one arm, locate Neiguan using the thumb of the opposite hand, and press slowly to feel slight tenderness. Repeat pressing for 3-5 seconds 10-15 times and perform on both arms. It is effective to stimulate this point frequently before going to work or when stressed.

4. Sanyinjiao (三陰交) — SP6

Location: About 4 cun (approximately 12 cm) above the inner ankle bone. It is located at the point where you meet when moving upward along the inner edge of the tibia.

Benefit: Sanyinjiao is an important acupoint that regulates the spleen and digestive function, strengthening gastric function and improving digestive absorption. It shows excellent effects in relieving not only acid reflux but also chronic indigestion and abdominal discomfort.

Technique: From a seated position, bend one leg and place it on the opposite knee, then locate Sanyinjiao with your thumb. Repeat pressing for 5 seconds 15-20 times, performing on both legs with the same pressure.

5. Taichong (太衝) — LR3

Location: Between the big toe and the second toe on the top of the foot, above the joint at the base of the toes. It is located approximately one bone length above where the two bones meet.

Benefit: Taichong regulates the liver’s qi and fundamentally resolves stress-induced acid reflux. It calms digestive symptoms worsened by nervous instability and normalizes gastric function by improving the body’s qi circulation.

Technique: Sit comfortably with one leg placed on the opposite knee, then locate Taichong with your thumb. Repeat pressing deeply for 3-5 seconds 10-15 times, performing on both feet with the same pressure.

5-Minute Self-Acupressure Routine

Here is a 5-minute acid reflux relief acupressure routine that can be easily performed even in a busy schedule.

Total Time Required: About 5 minutes
- Step 1 (1 minute): Zhongwan acupressure — Slowly press 10-15 times with your thumb in a comfortable position
- Step 2 (1 minute): Neiguan acupressure (both arms) — Press 10-15 times for 30 seconds on each arm
- Step 3 (1.5 minutes): Zusanli acupressure (both legs) — Press 15-20 times for 45 seconds on each leg
- Step 4 (1 minute): Taichong acupressure (both feet) — Press 10-15 times for 30 seconds on each foot
- Step 5 (0.5 minutes): Sanyinjiao acupressure (both legs) — Press 5-10 times for 15 seconds on each leg
Recommended Timing: Perform 1-2 times daily in the morning on an empty stomach, before bed, or when acid reflux symptoms appear. You can experience noticeable results with consistent practice for at least 2-4 weeks.

🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some of the above acupoints, including Sanyinjiao (SP6), Taichong (LR3), and Hegu (LI4), may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, please consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before performing acupressure.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, or if a digestive tract condition is suspected, please consult a healthcare professional. Acupoint stimulation may not be appropriate depending on your individual health condition, so guidance from a healthcare professional is recommended.
June 20, 2025
The 5 Best Acupressure Points for Acne (With Exact Locations)
One-line summary: Acne is primarily caused by internal heat in the body and hormonal imbalance. By applying acupressure to five acupoints—Hegu (LI4), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Taichong (LR3), Quchi (LI11), and Zusanli (ST36)—for 2 minutes daily, you can expect improved skin and enhanced immunity.

Introduction

Are you troubled by acne that keeps appearing on your face? Acne is not simply a skin surface problem but a signal of internal imbalance. In traditional Chinese medicine, acne is viewed as resulting from excessive internal heat, hormonal imbalance, weakened digestive function, and poor qi and blood circulation caused by stress.

In particular, acne that repeatedly appears on the chin, forehead, and temples is not simply inflammation but is deeply related to hormones and liver function. The five acupoints introduced here have been used for thousands of years in Eastern medicine to improve skin and enhance internal organ function. Without antibiotics or strong chemical substances, just 5 minutes of self-administered acupressure daily can help detoxify your body and balance hormones.

Five Acupoints for Acne Improvement

1. Hegu (LI4) — Large Intestine Meridian

Location: The point slightly inward from where the thumb and index finger meet (the commonly shown location you see online)

Acupressure technique: Using the thumb of the opposite hand, apply gentle circular pressure at a level that feels “good but slightly tender” for about 1 minute

Benefits: It lowers the heat in the large intestine and promotes toxin elimination. The facial skin and large intestine are directly connected through meridians, so stimulating Hegu quickly calms facial inflammation and strengthens immunity. It also improves not only acne but also constipation and skin deterioration caused by poor digestion.

2. Sanyinjiao (SP6) — Spleen Meridian

Location: The point 4 finger-widths above the inner ankle bone (on the inner side of the shin bone)

Acupressure technique: Apply slow pressure with your thumb, pressing for 5 seconds and resting for 5 seconds repeatedly. 1-2 minutes on each leg

Benefits: This is an important acupoint that regulates female hormones and reproductive function. It prevents worsening of acne caused by irregular menstrual cycles or hormonal imbalance. It enhances spleen and kidney function, improves digestion and elimination, and normalizes water metabolism in the body.

3. Taichong (LR3) — Liver Meridian

Location: The point in the depression between the big toe and second toe on the top of the foot

Acupressure technique: Apply slow pressure with your thumb, stimulating with a gentle downward-pulling sensation toward the toes. 1 minute on each foot

Benefits: The liver is the central organ for hormone metabolism and emotional regulation. Taichong promotes qi circulation in the liver and improves hormonal imbalance caused by stress. It also improves facial complexion, adds luster to the skin, and addresses the fatigue that accompanies chronic acne.

4. Quchi (LI11) — Large Intestine Meridian

Location: The end of the crease that forms when you bend your elbow (on the outer side of the arm)

Acupressure technique: Apply vertical pressure with the thumb of the opposite hand at a level that feels “good but slightly tender”. 1 minute on each arm

Benefits: This acupoint directly lowers large intestine heat. When excessive internal heat rises to the skin, it creates inflammatory acne, which this point quickly calms. It is especially effective for infected acne or acne with pus, and continuous stimulation improves inflamed skin constitution.

5. Zusanli (ST36) — Stomach Meridian

Location: The point 4 finger-widths below the depression on the outside below the knee (on the front of the shin bone)

Acupressure technique: Apply slow pressure with your thumb, pressing for 3 seconds and resting for 3 seconds repeatedly. 1-2 minutes on each leg

Benefits: This is a “universal acupoint” that strengthens the immune system and promotes digestive function. It improves poor digestion and insufficient nutrient absorption, which are among the causes of acne, and increases overall stamina and body resistance. It also brightens skin tone and improves oozing eczematous acne.

5-Minute Self-Acupressure Routine

Optimal timing: Choose either morning (after waking) or evening (before bed)

Order and time allocation:
1. Hegu (LI4) — 1 minute both sides (2 minutes total)
2. Quchi (LI11) — 1 minute both sides (2 minutes total)
3. Sanyinjiao (SP6) — 1-2 minutes both sides (1 minute total)
4. Taichong (LR3) — 1 minute both sides (1 minute total)
5. Zusanli (ST36) — 1-2 minutes both sides (1-2 minutes total)
Additional tip: Drinking a glass of warm water after acupressure further activates qi circulation in the body. Doing it at the same time each day allows your body to remember the rhythm, enhancing the effects.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational health purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, please consult a healthcare professional.

🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Among the above acupoints, Hegu (LI4), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, consult a professional before practicing.
June 20, 2025
The 5 Best Acupressure Points for Ankle Pain (With Exact Locations)

One-line summary: Ankle pain relief can be accelerated through acupressure on five key points—Kunlun (BL60), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Taichong (LR3), Taixi (KI3), and Zusanli (ST36)—which improve blood circulation and relieve muscle tension.

Why Does Ankle Pain Occur and How Can Acupressure Points Help?

Ankle pain in daily life is more common than you might think. Whether from prolonged standing, wearing high heels, or twisting your ankle during sports, pain can strike suddenly. While modern medicine attributes it to muscle damage or inflammation, traditional medicine offers a different perspective.

Traditional medicine views ankle pain as resulting from blocked meridians or insufficient circulation of qi and blood, leading to pain and stiffness. Since the ankle is a junction where multiple meridians—including the Bladder, Liver, and Kidney meridians—converge, stimulating the appropriate acupoints is highly effective. Acupressure works without medication, using finger pressure to immediately improve local blood circulation and release tension in nerve endings, reducing pain and accelerating recovery.

Five Key Acupressure Points for Ankle Pain

1. Kunlun (BL60, 崑崙) — A Master Point for the Outer Ankle

Location: Located on the outer side of the ankle, in the hollow between the lateral malleolus and the Achilles tendon. Turn your ankle slightly inward and you’ll find it easily with your fingers.

Technique: Using your thumb, apply pressure in slow circular motions, pressing and releasing for 5-10 seconds at a time. Stimulate about 10-15 repetitions per session, aiming for a tender but manageable pressure sensation. Avoid pressing too hard, as this can damage tissue.

Effects: Kunlun is a ‘master point’ for alleviating ankle inflammation and pain. It’s effective for lateral ankle pain, ankle sprain complications, and even calf cramps. It also promotes qi and blood circulation throughout the lower body, helping reduce leg fatigue. As a key point on the Bladder meridian, it connects to the spine and contributes to overall tension relief.

2. Sanyinjiao (SP6, 三陰交) — The Center of Lower Body Circulation

Location: Located four finger-widths (approximately 10cm) above the inner ankle bone, directly behind the inner edge of the tibia. Tracing up along the shinbone, you’ll find a tender point.

Technique: Using your thumb, stimulate by slowly pushing upward. Press for 5-10 seconds at a time, repeating 15-20 times per session. It’s especially effective when the calf muscles are tight. Caution is advised for pregnant women.

Effects: Excellent for relieving inner ankle pain, knee pain, and general leg swelling and fatigue. As the intersection of the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen meridians, it’s central to lower body qi and blood circulation. It significantly enhances recovery after ankle sprains and is a multipurpose point that even improves body temperature regulation and hormonal balance.

3. Taichong (LR3, 太衝) — The Master Point for Pain Relief

Location: Located on the top of the foot, in the hollow between the first and second metatarsal bones, about 3-4cm from the heel toward the toes. Pressing with your finger will reveal a distinct tender point.

Technique: Using your thumb, stimulate by pushing upward from below. Press for 5 seconds, release, and repeat 15-20 times. Even if pain is only in one foot, stimulating both feet enhances the effect.

Effects: As the primary point on the Liver meridian, it’s a true ‘master point for pain relief.’ It alleviates not only ankle pain but also stress-related pain, headaches, and menstrual cramps. It rapidly improves blood circulation in the foot, reducing swelling and remarkably calming nerve pain. Caution is advised for pregnant women.

4. Taixi (KI3, 太溪) — The Source of Body’s Recovery Power

Location: Located on the inner side of the ankle, in the hollow between the medial malleolus and the Achilles tendon. It’s positioned on the opposite side of the ankle from Kunlun (on the inner side).

Technique: Using your thumb, apply pressure in slow circular motions. Press for 5-10 seconds, release, and repeat 10-15 times. Since this point is where the body’s vital energy converges, it’s effective even with gentle pressure.

Effects: As the primary point on the Kidney meridian, it’s the source of the body’s recovery and immune capacity. It helps relieve inner ankle pain, cold feet, and fatigue. It’s especially effective for fundamental recovery after ankle sprains, and regular stimulation can even prevent recurrence. It also improves sleep disturbances and pain exacerbation caused by stress.

5. Zusanli (ST36, 足三里) — The Universal Remedy for Whole-Body Fatigue

Location: Located four finger-widths below the knee on the outer side of the shinbone. Starting from the hollow below the knee and moving downward, you’ll find it. The precise location is between the outer muscle and bone of the tibia.

Technique: Press vertically using your thumb or knuckle. Press for 5-10 seconds, release, and repeat 15-20 times. If you want the strongest effect from acupressure, it’s fine to apply firmer pressure.

Effects: Zusanli, whose name means ‘the third mile of the leg,’ is a universal point governing digestion, immunity, and fatigue recovery. It’s effective when reduced mobility from ankle pain has accumulated whole-body fatigue. It relieves calf muscle tension and improves lower body circulation, accelerating ankle recovery. It’s especially beneficial for ankle pain accompanied by reduced vitality or chronic fatigue.

5-Minute Self-Acupressure Routine — Effective Time Management

Preparation Stage (1 minute): Sit comfortably and apply warm compress around the ankle for 5 seconds using a warm towel. This dilates blood vessels and opens the meridians.

Step 1 – Kunlun (BL60) Stimulation (1 minute): Stimulate the Kunlun point on the outer ankle using your thumb in circular motions, pressing and releasing 15 times. Even if pain is only in one foot, stimulate both feet.

Step 2 – Sanyinjiao (SP6) Stimulation (1 minute): Stimulate the location four finger-widths above the inner ankle, pushing upward slowly. Alternate between both legs, repeating about 20 times.

Step 3 – Taichong (LR3) + Taixi (KI3) Stimulation (1.5 minutes): Alternate between stimulating Taichong on the top of the foot and Taixi on the inner ankle. Press each point for 10 seconds, repeating 10-15 times on both feet.

Step 4 – Zusanli (ST36) Finish (0.5 minutes): Press the Zusanli point below the knee vertically, pressing and releasing 10 times. This improves whole-body circulation and enhances the acupressure effect.

💡 Tip: Practicing just 5 minutes twice daily, morning and evening, can improve pain within a week. On days with severe pain, a brief additional stimulation during lunch is also beneficial.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes and does not substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If ankle pain persists or is severe, especially with significant swelling, bruising, or limited mobility, be sure to seek professional evaluation from an orthopedist or traditional medicine practitioner.

🤰 Pregnancy Caution: Among the acupoints above, Sanyinjiao (SP6) and Taichong (LR3) may induce uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, consult your healthcare provider before practice. For pregnant women, it’s recommended to focus on Kunlun (BL60), Taixi (KI3), and Zusanli (ST36).

June 20, 2025
5 Acupoints for Headaches — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide
One-line summary: Headaches can be relieved by applying acupressure to 5 acupoints—Hegu, Baihui, Fengchi, Taichong, and Yifeng—for 5 minutes daily according to the cause. In particular, Hegu (LI4) is the most effective for all types of headaches.

Why Manage Headaches with Acupressure Points

Headaches are one of the most common symptoms experienced by modern people. They occur from various causes including stress, neck stiffness, sleep deprivation, and weather changes, and they represent not just a problem in the head itself but a signal of fatigue and imbalance throughout the body. In traditional medicine, headaches are understood as “disrupted circulation of qi and blood,” and specific acupoints are stimulated to correct this imbalance. Acupressure is a self-care method that can be performed anytime and anywhere without medication side effects, and it works by stimulating nerves and muscles to promote blood circulation and relieve muscle tension.

5 Acupoints for Headache Relief

1️⃣ Hegu (LI4)

Location: The hollow between the thumb and index finger (on the back of the hand)

Meridian: Large Intestine Meridian

Mechanism of action: Hegu is known as the “cure-all for all headaches.” Located on the Large Intestine Meridian, which transmits nerve signals, it regulates nerve stimulation directed to the brain. It is effective for relieving nearly all types of headaches, including migraines, tension headaches, and headaches caused by colds.

Acupressure technique: Using the thumb of the opposite hand, slowly press Hegu, maintaining stimulation at a slightly tender point for 5-10 seconds, and repeat 3 times. Massaging the wrist in counterclockwise circles is also beneficial.

Effects: Immediate headache relief, stress relief, enhanced immunity

2️⃣ Baihui (GV20)

Location: The crown of the head (where the line connecting both ears intersects with the line drawn up from the bridge of the nose)

Meridian: Governing Vessel

Mechanism of action: The acupoint closest to the brain center that directly relieves tension in the crown area. It is particularly effective for pain in the vertex and headaches caused by brain fatigue, and also helps improve concentration and reduce anxiety.

Acupressure technique: Place the middle and ring fingers of both hands overlapping on Baihui, press vertically downward for 5 seconds. Repeat 20 times with a gentle whole-head massage feeling.

Effects: Vertex pain relief, brain fatigue relief, better sleep

3️⃣ Fengchi (GB20)

Location: The hollow area on both sides of the cervical spine at the base of the skull below the occipital bone

Meridian: Gallbladder Meridian

Mechanism of action: Located at the junction of bone and muscle in the neck area, it is most effective for relieving headaches caused by neck stiffness and occipital tension. It helps prevent the forward neck posture and smartphone-induced neck tension common in modern people from developing into headaches.

Acupressure technique: Use the thumbs of both hands to find Fengchi and press slowly, tilting the head slightly backward to add more stimulation. Repeat pressing for 5 seconds, 5 times, preferably starting with one side first.

Effects: Neck stiffness and cervicogenic headache relief, stress-related headache relief, improved neck mobility

4️⃣ Taichong (LR3)

Location: Between the first and second toes on the dorsum of the foot (the hollow point where the bones meet)

Meridian: Liver Meridian

Mechanism of action: An acupoint that governs liver function and emotional stability, effective for relieving headaches and migraines caused by stress and anger. It promotes the liver’s detoxification function, helping the body eliminate toxins and fundamentally improving chronic headaches.

Acupressure technique: Place your foot on your knee or on the ground, find Taichong with your thumb, and press slowly for 3 seconds. You can also massage between the toes in circular motions, and repeat 3 times daily.

Effects: Stress-related and migraine relief, enhanced liver function, emotional stability

5️⃣ Yifeng (TE17)

Location: The hollow area below the earlobe behind the ear

Meridian: Triple Energizer Meridian

Mechanism of action: An area with concentrated nerves and blood vessels around the ear, specialized for relieving headaches in the temporal region and temples. Since the Triple Energizer Meridian governs metabolism and circulation throughout the body, stimulating Yifeng increases blood flow to the brain and fundamentally resolves the cause of headaches.

Acupressure technique: Using the index and middle fingers, find the hollow area behind the ear and massage gently in circular motions. Avoid pressing too hard; apply gentle pressure for 1-2 minutes continuously.

Effects: Migraine and temporal pain relief, relief of tension around the ear, improved cerebral blood flow

5-Minute Self-Acupressure Routine

Best times: After waking in the morning, during lunch, and before bed at night (3 times daily)
1. [1 minute] Bilateral Hegu acupressure: 30 seconds each side, slow pressing
2. [1 minute] Baihui acupressure: Vertical pressing with both middle fingers, repeat 20 times
3. [1 minute] Bilateral Fengchi acupressure: 30 seconds each side, add stimulation by tilting head backward
4. [1 minute] Bilateral Taichong acupressure: 30 seconds each foot, massage in circular motions
5. [1 minute] Bilateral Yifeng acupressure: 30 seconds each side, gentle circular massage
Additional tips: Washing your hands and feet with warm water before acupressure makes it easier to locate the acupoints. Adequate hydration after acupressure is also important.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If headaches persist or are severe, if you experience sudden severe headache, or if headaches are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or stiffness, please consult with a healthcare professional. The effectiveness of acupoint acupressure may vary depending on individual health conditions.

🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Among the acupoints above, Hegu (LI4) and Taichong (LR3) may cause uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, consult with a professional before performing acupressure. Safe acupoints are Baihui (GV20), Fengchi (GB20), and Yifeng (TE17).
June 9, 2025