What is Lidui?
Lidui (厲兑, ST45) is the terminal acupoint of the Stomach Meridian (足陽明胃經), located at the tip of the foot. As the ending point of the Stomach Meridian, it directly regulates stomach function and quickly alleviates various symptoms related to digestive discomfort. It is particularly effective for nausea and vomiting symptoms.
How to Find the Exact Location
Step 1: Sit in a comfortable position and observe the second toe.
Step 2: Face the lateral side of the toe (toward the little toe).
Step 3: Find the point approximately 0.1 cun (about 3mm) below the edge of the toenail.
Step 4: Just below the borderline where the toenail and skin meet, in the slightly indented area, is Lidui.
Tip: The exact location is where you feel slight tenderness (a painful sensation when pressed) when you touch it with your finger.
Acupressure Technique
Basic Acupressure Method:
1. Sit in a comfortable position and place one leg on top of the other knee
2. Place the tip of your thumb or index finger perpendicular to the Lidui acupoint
3. Slowly inhale and apply pressure for 3-5 seconds (you should feel soreness rather than pain)
4. Exhale and slowly release the pressure
5. Repeat for 1-2 minutes, applying acupressure to both feet
Advanced Method: Applying vibratory stimulation or massaging in circular motions with warm fingers is also effective.
Main Benefits
- Nausea and Vomiting: Normalizes stomach function for immediate nausea relief
- Insomnia: Stabilizes the nervous system to induce restful sleep
- Facial Swelling: Promotes fluid metabolism to reduce puffiness
- Nosebleeds: Reduces stomach heat to stop nosebleeds
- Digestive Discomfort: Improves abdominal discomfort caused by reduced digestive function
- Toothache: As the terminal point of the Stomach Meridian, it helps relieve toothaches
When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?
Optimal Time: There are no specific time restrictions, but applying acupressure immediately when you feel nauseous is effective quickly. If you want to improve insomnia, it’s best to apply acupressure 30 minutes to 1 hour before bed.
Recommended Situations: Apply acupressure immediately when you have indigestion after eating, feel motion sickness, have facial swelling, can’t sleep at night, or have a nosebleed.
Precautions
Contraindications: Avoid if the skin is damaged or inflamed.
Pressure Adjustment: Avoid excessive pressure and apply acupressure to the point where you feel soreness rather than pain.
During Pregnancy: While Lidui is relatively safe as the terminal point of the Stomach Meridian, consult with a professional before applying it during early pregnancy.
If Illness is Suspected: Persistent nausea or nosebleeds may be symptoms of other conditions, so consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis.
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