Hapgok (LI4) vs Neiguan (PC6) — Which Acupoint Is Right for You?

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Why Compare Hapgok and Neiguan?

Hapgok and Neiguan are both located near the hand and wrist, making them easy to press anytime, anywhere. Plus, they’re both famous as “do-it-all” versatile acupoints! Hapgok tackles pain and colds from the back of the hand, while Neiguan handles nausea and anxiety from the wrist. They may seem similar, but their specialties are quite different!

Hapgok (LI4) — The ‘All-Purpose Problem Solver’ in the Webbing Between Thumb and Index Finger

Hapgok is located in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. It belongs to the Large Intestine meridian.

How to Find It

Spread one hand wide and press the most fleshy spot between the thumb and index finger firmly with the opposite thumb.

How to Press

Press firmly with your thumb, 1–2 minutes. A slightly achy sensation means you’ve found the right spot.

Best For

• Headaches
• Colds
• Toothaches
• Shoulder and neck stiffness

Neiguan (PC6) — The ‘Anti-Nausea Point’ on the Inner Wrist

Neiguan is located on the inner wrist, three finger-widths toward the elbow from the wrist crease. It belongs to the Pericardium meridian.

How to Find It

Turn your palm face up and place three fingers side by side starting from the wrist crease toward the elbow. The point at the tip of your third finger, between the two tendons, is Neiguan.

How to Press

Press firmly with the opposite thumb, 1–2 minutes. A slightly tingling sensation is normal.

Best For

• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Motion sickness

Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Acupoint Is Right for You?

• “I have a headache or toothache” → Hapgok! It’s the ace of pain relief.
• “I feel nauseous or queasy” → Neiguan! Nausea is Neiguan’s specialty.
• “I feel a cold coming on” → Hapgok! Great for early cold symptoms.
• “I feel anxious and my heart is racing” → Neiguan! It calms the mind.
• “Everything feels off” → Both! Hapgok + Neiguan covers most issues.

Even Better When Pressed Together!

This is the easiest combination to do during your commute or on the go. Hapgok for 1 minute (both hands) → Neiguan for 1 minute (both hands) — just 4 minutes total! Especially great when flying — the ultimate combo for tackling motion sickness (Neiguan) + headache (Hapgok) simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions