Acupoint Guide

Tag: cold prevention

  • 5 Acupoints for Asthma and Fever: Effective Acupressure Order and Methods

    5 Acupoints That Help Both Asthma and Fever: Situation-Based Acupressure Guide

    Quick summary: When asthma and fever occur together, stimulating 5 acupoints in order—Hegu, Quchi, Dazhui, Tanzhong, and Neiting—can simultaneously relieve breathing difficulty and high fever.

    Asthma and Fever: Why Do They Occur Together and How Should You Respond?

    During seasonal transitions or after a cold, it’s common to experience asthma symptoms along with fever. When breathing difficulty and high fever strike at the same time, daily life becomes challenging.

    Traditional Chinese Medicine views these symptoms more effectively when addressed through an integrated approach targeting immunity, heat expulsion, and airway function, rather than treating them separately. In particular, the sequence of reducing fever first and then improving breathing is crucial.

    Acupoint Selection Guide by Symptom

    The acupoints you should prioritize vary depending on the severity of asthma and fever.

    Situation Symptom Characteristics Primary Acupoints to Stimulate Effect
    Fever above 39°C Shallow breathing due to high fever Quchi (LI11) → Neiting (ST44) Heat sensation relief within 1-2 hours
    Severe breathing difficulty Chest feels tight and hard to breathe Tanzhong (CV17) → Dazhui (GV14) Improved breathing depth
    Both asthma and fever are severe Both symptoms are intense simultaneously All 5 points in order Comprehensive symptom relief

    5 Acupoints: Location, Benefits, and Precise Massage Techniques

    1. Hegu (LI4): The Acupoint That Opens the Door to Immunity

    Location

    Located at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger. When your hand is open, it’s at the highest point between the two fingers.

    Finding tip: Place your index finger on the Hegu area and move it slightly—you’ll feel a slight tenderness at the exact point.

    Benefits

    This is the foundational acupoint for simultaneously relieving asthma and fever. Following the Large Intestine meridian, it reduces heat throughout the body and excels at improving respiratory conditions. It also relieves bronchial constriction caused by stress, making it effective for stress-related breathing difficulty.

    Limitation: Hegu alone cannot completely reduce high fever, so it should be stimulated together with Quchi.

    Massage Technique

    1. Press the Hegu point firmly with the opposite thumb for 3 seconds, then release
    2. Start with light stimulation and gradually increase pressure
    3. Stimulate 3-5 times daily, 2-3 minutes per session
    4. Apply to both hands

    2. Quchi (LI11): The Acupoint That Rapidly Reduces High Fever

    Location

    Located at the outer end of the crease formed when the elbow is bent at 90 degrees. When the arm is extended, it’s in the depression above the elbow joint.

    Finding tip: When you bend your arm, press the outer end where the crease is most prominent.

    Benefits

    This is the most effective acupoint for reducing high fever. It expels heat from the internal organs to the body’s surface and rapidly reduces inflammation, alleviating airway inflammation caused by asthma. It also improves headaches and skin irritation caused by fever.

    Limitation: Quchi stimulation alone won’t improve airway function, so it should be used together with Tanzhong (CV17).

    Massage Technique

    1. Press Quchi gently with your thumb or middle finger
    2. Massage in circular motions clockwise (about 1 minute)
    3. Apply stimulation until you feel slight warmth
    4. Massage 2-3 minutes every morning and evening
    5. Apply to both arms equally

    3. Dazhui (GV14): The Central Hub for Immunity Enhancement and Breathing Improvement

    Location

    Located in the depression directly below the most prominent bone at the back of the neck when you lower your head (the seventh cervical vertebra). You can easily find it by slowly running your finger down the back of your neck.

    Finding tip: When you lower your head forward, the spine bone protrudes. The hollow area directly below it is Dazhui.

    Benefits

    This is the central acupoint for immunity enhancement and the fundamental improvement of respiratory conditions. Because it regulates overall vital energy (qi), it’s the most effective acupoint for simultaneously relieving asthma and fever. It also excels at cold prevention and improving recovery capacity.

    Limitation: It’s difficult to press this point yourself with your own hand, and the neck area requires delicate stimulation.

    Massage Technique

    1. Reach your opposite hand around to the back of your neck and stimulate with your middle or index finger
    2. Massage in circular motions for 1-2 minutes (not too forcefully)
    3. Tap gently with your warm finger (30 seconds)
    4. Get family help for warm-hand massage (recommended)
    5. Heat therapy with moxibustion or a heating pad is even more effective (10-15 minutes)
    6. Stimulate 3-5 minutes daily

    4. Tanzhong (CV17): The Acupoint That Opens Airways and Deepens Breathing

    Location

    Located on the sternum, at the midpoint of a horizontal line connecting both nipples. It’s in the depression at the level of the fourth intercostal space on the sternum.

    Finding tip: Draw an imaginary line between the two nipples and move straight down—you’ll find a valley-like depression.

    Benefits

    This acupoint has the most direct effect on relieving breathing difficulty caused by asthma. It improves airway patency, deepens breathing, and strengthens lung function. It also improves heart function, promoting overall cardiopulmonary health.

    Limitation: Tanzhong stimulation alone cannot reduce fever, so it should be used together with Quchi or Neiting.

    Massage Technique

    1. Gently place the tip of your middle or index finger on Tanzhong
    2. Slowly press downward while taking deep breaths
    3. Gentle stimulation is more effective than strong pressure
    4. Press and release 5-10 times daily, or massage for 2-3 minutes
    5. Proceed slowly until you feel your breathing deepening

    5. Neiting (ST44): The Acupoint That Improves Upper Heat-Lower Cold and Reduces Fever at Its Root

    Location

    Located between the second and third toes on the foot, at the boundary where the webbing between the toes begins. You can feel a depression when you touch between the toes.

    Finding tip: Touch between each toe, and you’ll find the point where you feel slight tenderness—that’s Neiting.

    Benefits

    This acupoint draws heat down through the Stomach meridian, reducing fever throughout the body. It especially improves the upper heat-lower cold pattern (excessive heat above, coldness below), providing fundamental fever relief. It also enhances digestive function and boosts overall immunity. It helps improve loss of appetite caused by asthma.

    Limitation: Neiting alone cannot improve breathing difficulty, so it should be used together with Tanzhong (CV17).

    Massage Technique

    1. Rub the Neiting area back and forth with your thumb (1 minute)
    2. Repeat pressing and releasing (30 seconds)
    3. Start with gentle stimulation since the area between toes is sensitive
    4. Stimulate 2-3 times daily, 2-3 minutes per session
    5. Most effective in the evening or before bed (calms the nervous system)
    6. Apply to both feet equally

    5-Minute Acupressure Routine for Asthma and Fever Relief

    Following the sequence below, you can simultaneously relieve asthma and fever. What’s important is reducing fever first and then improving breathing.

    Step Acupoint Time Method Effect
    Step 1 Hegu (both sides) 1 minute Press firmly for 30 seconds on each side, then release Activates immunity
    Step 2 Quchi (both sides) 1 minute Massage in circular motions for 30 seconds on each side Rapidly reduces fever
    Step 3 Dazhui 1 minute Warm massage or gentle tapping Deepens breathing
    Step 4 Tanzhong 1 minute Gently press while practicing diaphragmatic breathing Improves airway patency
    Step 5 Neiting (both sides) 1 minute Rub back and forth for 30 seconds on each side Final fever relief

    Tips to Maximize Routine Effectiveness:

    • When symptoms are severe, you can repeat up to 2-3 times daily (minimum 4-hour intervals)
    • You should continue for at least 3-5 days to notice results
    • Once symptoms improve, maintain with 3-4 sessions per week

    Important to know: If breathing difficulty suddenly worsens or you become disoriented, visit an emergency room immediately. Acupressure is a complementary therapy, and serious symptoms require consultation with a healthcare professional.

    Other Acupoints Effective for Asthma Only

    If the above 5 acupoints don’t provide improvement, you can also try stimulating respiratory-specific acupoints. Learn more about 8 acupoints for asthma relief which introduces acupoints specialized for enhancing lung function and deepening breathing.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Q. Which acupoint is most effective for asthma symptoms?

    To quickly relieve breathing difficulty from asthma, you should prioritize Tanzhong (CV17) and Dazhui (GV14). Tanzhong directly opens the airway and deepens breathing, while Dazhui enhances immunity and addresses the root of respiratory conditions. When stimulating both points together, breathing difficulty often improves within 10-20 minutes.

    Q. In what order should I massage when having fever along with asthma?

    Reducing fever is the priority first. The order is as follows:

    1. Stimulate Quchi (LI11) and Neiting (ST44) to rapidly reduce heat (5 minutes)
    2. Stimulate Hegu (LI4) to enhance immunity (2 minutes)
    3. Stimulate Tanzhong (CV17) and Dazhui (GV14) to improve breathing (5 minutes)

    Following this sequence effectively alleviates bronchial irritation from fever, and breathing gradually becomes easier.

    Q. How many times per day and how long should I massage?

    We recommend at least 2-3 sessions daily with a 5-10 minute self-massage routine. When symptoms are severe, up to 4-5 times daily is possible. Stimulate each acupoint for 30 seconds to 2 minutes, but avoid pressing too hard to prevent skin damage. Continue for at least 3-5 days to notice changes.

    Q. Can pregnant women and children use this acupressure technique?

    Pregnant women should avoid stimulating certain acupoints (especially Hegu and Neiting) as they may trigger uterine contractions. Children should avoid overly strong stimulation and proceed with gentle touch. If a pregnant woman or child has asthma and fever symptoms, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and learn safe massage techniques.

    Q. What should I do if massage doesn’t help?

    For acupressure to be effective, accurate location and proper pressure are essential. If it’s not working:

    • Double-check that you’ve located the acupoints correctly
    • Try increasing massage pressure and duration (5 minutes → 10 minutes)
    • Get direct massage from a Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor (more effective)
    • If breathing difficulty worsens or high fever persists, consult a healthcare professional

    Since acupressure is a complementary therapy, if symptoms persist for more than 3-5 days, it’s safer to seek professional diagnosis.

    Precautions and Limitations

    Acupressure cannot cure all cases of asthma and fever. You must seek medical care in the following situations:

    • When breathing difficulty progressively worsens
    • When high fever rises above 40°C or persists for more than 3 days
    • When there is chest pain or changes in consciousness
    • When wheezing sounds are heard (sign of asthma attack)

    Limitations of acupressure: Traditional Chinese Medicine views acupressure as a complementary therapy. For more fundamental treatment, it’s more effective to seek diagnosis from a Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor and combine acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal medicine.

    Are you concerned about persistent asthma symptoms?
    Learn more about Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches to respiratory health for comprehensive information on acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal medicine treatment, and lifestyle management.

    Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, you must consult with a Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor or healthcare professional before practicing these techniques.
    Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult with a healthcare professional.
  • Introduction to Self-Acupressure for Cold Prevention — Start with These 3 Points for Beginners

    Introduction to Self-Acupressure for Cold Prevention — Start with These 3 Points for Beginners

    One-line Summary: Knowing just 3 points on your hands and neck is already half the battle in preventing colds. Start learning basic self-acupressure that anyone can do, starting today.

    Acupressure Is Not Difficult

    Do you catch colds frequently when the weather changes? I did too. Before visiting a doctor or taking medicine, I discovered how wonderful it is to be able to care for my own body with my own hands. Acupressure is not a special technique. It’s simply gently pressing predetermined points with warm hands. Children, grandparents, busy office workers—anyone can do it. Including you, if you’re starting for the first time today.

    What to Know Before You Start

    The true principles of acupressure are simple. First, the pressure should be only as gentle as ‘feels good’ without pain. Don’t think it needs to be as strong as getting acupuncture or taking medicine. Second, press with ‘the fleshy part of your finger,’ not just the fingertip. Third, take a deep breath in and press slowly as you exhale. Fourth, finding a comfortable posture is key. If you’re forcing yourself to be tense, the effect decreases.

    Remember Just These 3 Points

    First: Union Valley (合谷) – LI4

    How to find it: Open your hand and spread your thumb and index finger. The tender point between them, specifically the midpoint where the bone of the index finger (second metacarpal) begins. When you press that spot with your opposite thumb, you’ll feel a distinct sensation. That’s the correct location.

    How to press it: Using your opposite thumb, gently push into the fleshy part, pressing slowly for 5 seconds. Not a tight, forceful grip, but rather pressure that makes you think ‘ah, yes, this is the spot.’ Then release for 5 seconds and repeat the pressing 3-5 times.

    When to press it: When your throat is sore or your nose is runny, in the early stages of catching a cold, or for prevention when colds are going around.

    Second: Wind Pool (風池) – GB20

    How to find it: Tilt your head forward slightly. You’ll see a hollow at the back of your neck. Look at both sides of that hollow. It’s the indented area between the trapezius muscle (the thick muscle connecting the neck and shoulders) and the lateral neck muscle, right beside the cervical spine. It’s easier to locate if you use fingers on both sides simultaneously.

    How to press it: Slowly push inward with both thumbs and press. Unlike Union Valley, you should feel an ‘ah, pleasantly sore’ sensation here. Repeat the 5-second press 5 times. Don’t tilt your head back—keep it relaxed and forward.

    When to press it: When your neck feels stiff, when you have chills from a cold, or especially when you feel like you might be coming down with a cold.

    Third: Great Vertebra (大椎) – GV14

    How to find it: This is the easiest point to locate. Tilt your head forward. You’ll feel the most prominent bone at the back of your neck. That’s the seventh cervical vertebra. Great Vertebra is the indented area directly below that bone, at the boundary between your neck and back. When you gently press that spot with your finger, you’ll get an ‘aha, this is it!’ sensation.

    How to press it: Using your middle or index finger, gently push inward toward your body and press for 5 seconds. This area has many nerve endings, so light pressure is sufficient. You don’t need to press hard. Repeat 3-5 times, and press as you take a deep breath in and exhale slowly.

    When to press it: When your body feels chilled or you have fatigue from a cold. It’s also good to press preventatively when you wake up in the morning.

    Beginner 3-Minute Routine

    Try this routine right after waking in the morning, or in the evening before bed when colds are going around. Three minutes total is enough. First, Union Valley (on your hands) for 1 minute, then Wind Pool (back of neck) for 1 minute, and finally Great Vertebra (at the boundary between neck and back) for 1 minute. Proceed in this order. The order doesn’t have major significance, but following this sequence naturally helps your body wake up and promotes blood circulation. You can do it anytime during the day, but it’s more effective if you make it a habit by doing it at set times in the morning and evening.

    3 Common Mistakes

    1. Pressing Too Hard
    Beginners often think ‘it has to hurt to be effective.’ That’s wrong. With acupressure, consistency is key, not intensity. Pressing gently with light, warm hands is actually more effective.

    2. Starting with Cold Hands
    Warm up your hands by rubbing them together or soaking them in warm water before you start. Acupressure with cold hands cuts the effectiveness in half.

    3. Doing It Only Once
    Acupressure isn’t a one-time treatment. You need to do it consistently for 3 days or a week to feel a difference. For cold prevention, do it for at least a week. If you already have cold symptoms, it’s fine to do it several times a day.

    Moving to the Next Level

    Once you’re comfortable with these 3 points, I’ll introduce additional points to explore. Crooked Pond (LI5, on the outer crease of your arm) is good when you have a severe cough from a cold, and Greater Rushing (LV3, between your big toe and second toe on the top of your foot) helps strengthen immunity. But for now, these 3 points are enough. What’s most important is feeling and trusting how your body responds to these points.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as Three Yin Crossing (SP6), Union Valley (LI4), and Greater Rushing (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or might be pregnant, consult a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before proceeding.
    ⚠️ 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, please consult a healthcare professional.