Introduction
Coughing is frustrating, and facial paralysis creates a stiff feeling in the face, making both conditions really inconvenient. When these two symptoms appear together, it’s confusing whether it’s a cold, a nerve problem, or something else. In traditional Chinese medicine, both are attributed to “Wind (風).” This is a state where the body’s defensive qi weakens, allowing external pathogenic factors (邪氣) to invade. Fortunately, by stimulating specific acupoints, you can regulate qi and blood flow to alleviate both symptoms simultaneously.
Five Beneficial Acupoints for Coughing and Facial Paralysis
1. Dazhui — GV14
Location: In the depression below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (the most prominent bone when tilting the neck forward, in the indented area directly below it)
Effects: Known as the “premier acupoint for Wind,” Dazhui governs the body’s immunity. By strengthening lung qi, it excels at cough relief, and by activating nerve function, it directly aids facial paralysis recovery. As a central hub for whole-body qi and blood circulation, it also enhances overall defensive function.
Acupressure Method: Tilt your neck slightly forward, then gently press upward and downward with the middle finger or thumb of both hands for 30 seconds. Press firmly but avoid excessive pain. Repeat 3-4 times daily.
2. Tianzhong — CV17
Location: At the midpoint of the line connecting both nipples on the breastbone (fourth intercostal space, center of the sternum)
Effects: The acupoint where lung and heart qi gather, called the “sea of qi.” It directly strengthens lung function, making it highly effective for cough suppression while normalizing the immune system. By stabilizing the nervous system, it also relieves anxiety caused by facial paralysis.
Acupressure Method: In a seated position, slowly press the center of the sternum with the tip of your thumb using both hands overlapped. Press firmly while maintaining comfortable breathing. Hold for 5 breaths, rest for 5 seconds, and repeat for a total of 1 minute. Perform 2 hours after eating.
3. Lieque — LU7
Location: 1.5 cun (approximately 2cm) above the wrist crease, in the hollow area above the radial styloid process (the protruding bone on the thumb side of the wrist)
Effects: A vital acupoint of the lung meridian and a “specific point” for relieving cough and cold symptoms. By regulating lung’s water metabolism, it improves both throat dryness and coughing. It also activates facial nerves, promoting facial paralysis recovery.
Acupressure Method: Relax your hand and use the thumb of the opposite hand to locate Lieque, then press gently in circular motions for 30 seconds. A slight sore sensation is appropriate. Perform on both sides, repeating 2-3 times daily.
4. Fenglong — ST40
Location: Below and outside the knee, 8 cun (approximately 24cm) above the lateral malleolus (the protruding bone on the outer ankle) moving toward the knee, approximately 1.5-2cm away from the lateral surface of the tibia
Effects: Known as the “acupoint that eliminates phlegm,” it expels sputum and phlegm accumulated in the lungs, making it especially effective for cough relief. By strengthening digestive function, it enhances immunity and accelerates facial paralysis recovery by promoting nerve regeneration. It also helps relieve migraines and facial spasms.
Acupressure Method: In a seated position with knees slightly bent, locate Fenglong with both thumbs and press simultaneously. Apply pressure until you feel slight pain and a refreshing sensation, then repeat for 5 breaths. Performing twice daily (morning and evening) is most effective.
5. Chize — LU5
Location: Above the elbow crease (antecubital fossa), on the outer side of the biceps brachii tendon (the thick tendon felt on the inner forearm)
Effects: A lung meridian acupoint that “clears heat,” removing lung heat and inflammation for excellent cough suppression. Particularly effective for dry cough or a sore throat. By activating facial nerves and promoting blood circulation, it relieves facial stiffness from facial paralysis.
Acupressure Method: Extend your arm, then slowly press the spongy area above the elbow crease with the opposite thumb. Start with light pressure and gradually increase strength, but reduce intensity if pain becomes severe. Perform on both arms for 30 seconds each, repeating 2-3 times daily.
5-Minute Self-Care Routine
For best results, perform the following sequence right after waking in the morning and before bed in the evening:
Step 1 (1 minute): Tilt your neck slightly forward and apply acupressure to Dazhui (GV14) for 30 seconds. You can also tap gently as if drumming.
Step 2 (1 minute 30 seconds): In a seated position, slowly apply acupressure to Tianzhong (CV17). Hold for 30 seconds while breathing, rest, and repeat.
Step 3 (1 minute): Simultaneously apply acupressure to Lieque (LU7) on both wrists. Continue until you feel a slight sore sensation.
Step 4 (1 minute): Press Fenglong (ST40) on both sides below the knees simultaneously. Maintain medium intensity.
Step 5 (30 seconds): To finish, apply acupressure to Chize (LU5) on both sides above the elbows. End at a comfortable intensity.
By repeating this routine twice daily, you should see noticeable improvement in cough and facial paralysis symptoms within one week. Continuing for 2-3 weeks until symptoms fully resolve is even more effective.
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