Acupoint Guide

Tag: LI20

  • Yingxiang (LI20) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    One-line summary: Yingxiang (LI20) is an acupoint located on the outer side of the nostril, and is an effective point for relieving nasal congestion, nosebleeds, allergies, colds, and facial pain.

    What is Yingxiang?

    Yingxiang (LI20, 迎香) is the final acupoint of the Large Intestine meridian and carries the meaning “welcoming fragrance.” This acupoint, located around the nose, is an important point that has traditionally been widely used to treat nasal conditions such as rhinitis, sinusitis, and colds.

    How to Find the Exact Location

    Yingxiang is located on the outer side of the nostril, at the midpoint of the nasolabial groove (the fold between the nose and mouth). An easy way to find it is as follows: 1) Place your index finger beside the nostril. 2) It is located at a distance equal to your thumb width outward from the nostril. 3) It is positioned slightly above the fold where the nose and mouth meet. 4) There is a pair on both sides of the nostrils.

    Acupressure Technique

    Basic acupressure technique: 1) Lightly place the index fingers of both hands on the Yingxiang acupoint. 2) Press slowly at approximately a 45-degree angle toward the nose. 3) Apply pressure at an intensity that is “tender but pleasant.” 4) Hold for 3–5 seconds, then slowly release. 5) Repeat this 10 times. Acupressure tips: It is most effective to perform this twice daily, morning and evening; however, you may press as needed when symptoms are severe. Do not apply excessive pressure, and if your skin is sensitive, gentle circular massage is also a good option.

    Key Benefits

    • Nasal congestion relief: Improves blood circulation in the nasal passages to quickly alleviate nasal congestion symptoms.
    • Stops nosebleeds: Helps improve nasal bleeding symptoms.
    • Allergic rhinitis: Alleviates allergy symptoms by regulating immune function.
    • Cold symptom relief: Effective in alleviating early-stage cold symptoms.
    • Facial pain relief: Alleviates facial pain such as trigeminal neuralgia.
    • Sinusitis improvement: Promotes sinus drainage to alleviate sinusitis symptoms.

    When Should You Press?

    Yingxiang acupressure is most effective when applied immediately upon noticing symptoms. If your nose is congested when you wake up in the morning, starting with acupressure is a good idea. It is also beneficial during the early stages of a cold when nasal congestion first appears. For people with allergic rhinitis, preventive acupressure 1–2 times daily during symptomatic seasons can be helpful. Pressing this point in the evening may also promote better sleep.

    Precautions

    Things to keep in mind when pressing Yingxiang are as follows. Excessive pressure can cause skin damage or discomfort, so apply appropriate pressure. Avoid pressing if your facial skin is very sensitive or inflamed, or if there are any wounds. If you are pregnant or have serious health conditions, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional first. If symptoms persist or worsen even after acupressure, seek medical attention.

    🤰 Pregnancy warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or could be pregnant, be sure to consult with a Korean medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before applying acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.

  • 5 Acupoints for Nasal Congestion — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-line summary: Stimulating 5 acupoints—between the eyebrows, beside the nose, inside the eyebrows, back of the neck, and above the forehead—rapidly relieves nasal congestion.

    Introduction

    I’m sure everyone has experienced sudden nasal congestion and the feeling of stuffiness. Nasal congestion from colds, rhinitis, or allergies reduces daily focus and interferes with sleep. Rather than relying solely on medication, try stimulating specific acupoints on your body to naturally help relieve congestion. This article introduces 5 of the most effective acupoints for nasal congestion and self-massage techniques.

    5 Effective Acupoints for Nasal Congestion

    1. Yintang (印堂) — EX-HN3

    Location: Located in the center between both eyebrows, at the glabella. When viewing the face from the front, it is at the exact midpoint where the inner ends of both eyebrows meet.

    Benefits: This acupoint helps provide the fastest relief from nasal congestion. It clears the mind and stabilizes the nervous system, relieving tension in the muscles around the nose. It also improves headaches and fatigue.

    Massage Technique: Using the tips of both thumbs, apply strong pressure for 5 seconds, pushing upward on the Yintang point. Repeat 10 times, and it’s more effective to stimulate the point while exhaling. Circular massage with warm fingers is also beneficial.

    2. Yingxiang (迎香) — LI20

    Location: Located on the outer side of the nostril, at the midpoint of the nasolabial groove connecting the nostril to the cheek. It is precisely located at the natural depression on both sides of the nostrils.

    Benefits: An important acupoint of the Large Intestine meridian that directly promotes blood circulation around the nose. It’s highly effective for all nasal symptoms including rhinitis, sinusitis, and reduced sense of smell. It also helps relieve facial swelling.

    Massage Technique: Using the index and middle fingers of both hands, simultaneously stimulate both sides of the nostrils. Apply pressure for 3 seconds while gently pushing toward the nose, then massage in circular motions. Warm massage using warm fingers or a heating pad for 5 minutes or longer is even more effective.

    3. Zanzhu (攢竹) — BL2

    Location: Located at the inner end of both eyebrows (where the eyebrows end toward the nose). It’s important to precisely locate the notch above the eye socket, where the facial bone is naturally indented.

    Benefits: An important acupoint of the Bladder meridian that activates the neural connection between the eyes and nose. It improves not only nasal congestion but also eye strain, headaches, and dry eyes. It promotes blood circulation in the upper face, supporting skin health.

    Massage Technique: Using both thumbs, gently push upward on the Zanzhu point while maintaining strong pressure for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times, and pressure that produces a slight fatigue sensation is appropriate. Circular rubbing is also effective.

    4. Tianzhu (天柱) — BL10

    Location: Located at the back of the neck, below the occipital bone (the rounded bone at the back of the head). It’s about 1.3 cun (approximately 4cm) lateral to the midline of the neck (spine), at the indentation on the outer edge of the thick muscle on the side of the neck (trapezius).

    Benefits: It activates blood flow and nerve signals to the brain, rapidly reducing inflammation of the nasal mucosa. It relieves tension at the back of the neck, also improving secondary symptoms in the muscles around the nose. It’s also excellent for relieving mental fatigue and stress.

    Massage Technique: Gently bend the neck forward to easily access the Tianzhu point, then apply pressure for 5 seconds using both thumbs, pushing downward on the point. Repeat 10 times, and massage in circular motions with one finger is also effective.

    5. Shenting (神庭) — GV24

    Location: Located at the center of the forehead, approximately 0.5 cun (about 1.5cm) above the anterior hairline (where the hair begins). You can find it on the midline connecting the crown of the head and the center of the forehead.

    Benefits: An important acupoint of the Governing Vessel that regulates the brain and nervous system overall. It improves mental fog caused by nasal congestion, clears the mind, and increases concentration. It’s particularly effective for stress-related nasal congestion.

    Massage Technique: Using the middle or index fingers of both hands, press the Shenting point upward for 5 seconds. It’s good to massage in circular motions with gentle pressure. Stimulating this point 2-3 times daily, morning and evening, also helps prevent nasal congestion.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    5-Minute Acupressure Routine to Relieve Nasal Congestion:

    Step 1 (1 minute): Stimulate Yintang and Shenting separately with medium pressure for 30 seconds each.
    Step 2 (1 minute): Perform warm massage on the Yingxiang point by rubbing it gently.
    Step 3 (1 minute): Stimulate both Zanzhu points simultaneously for 5 seconds each, repeat 10 times.
    Step 4 (1 minute): Press the Tianzhu point downward for 5 seconds each, repeat 10 times.
    Step 5 (1 minute): Repeat the entire sequence once more while taking deep breaths through the nose.

    Practicing this routine morning and evening will significantly relieve nasal congestion within 48 hours. Especially practicing before sleep improves sleep quality.

    🤰 Caution for Pregnant Women: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may cause uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, please consult with a healthcare professional.

  • 5 Acupoints for Allergies — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-line Summary: If you suffer from spring allergies and rhinitis, you can relieve symptoms with self-acupressure stimulating 5 key acupoints.

    Introduction

    As spring arrives, if your nose itches, eyes itch, and sneezing won’t stop, you’re one of millions suffering from allergies. If you don’t want to rely on medication, acupressure on acupoints from traditional Chinese medicine can be a natural solution. This guide will show you 5 key acupoints that relieve allergy symptoms and the exact acupressure methods.

    5 Acupoints Effective for Allergies

    1. Quchi (LI11)

    Location: Located at the outer end of the crease that forms when you bend your elbow. Bend your arm naturally, then find the outer end of the elbow crease.

    Benefits: Quchi strengthens immune function and relieves inflammation from allergies. It is particularly effective for rhinitis and skin itching, and helps cool the entire body to calm allergic reactions.

    Acupressure Method: Gently stimulate with your thumb or finger joint in circular motions for 30 seconds. Start lightly and gradually increase pressure. Repeat 3-5 times daily.

    2. Yingxiang (LI20)

    Location: Located on the outside of the nostril, at the midpoint of the nasolabial fold (the crease between the nostril and upper lip). It is symmetrically positioned on both sides of the nostrils, so you can stimulate both sides simultaneously with your middle fingers.

    Benefits: Yingxiang is a specialized acupoint for nasal conditions, directly relieving nasal congestion from rhinitis, sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis. It promotes blood circulation around the nose, reducing nasal swelling and making breathing easier.

    Acupressure Method: Use the middle fingers of both hands to gently stimulate the area beside the nostrils in circular motions for 20-30 seconds. Rather than pressing hard, it’s important to find the pressure point around the nostril and maintain medium pressure.

    3. Xuehai (SP10)

    Location: Located about two finger-widths (approximately 2 cun) above the inner upper edge of the kneecap. When sitting with legs extended, you can feel the protruding inner portion of the vastus medialis muscle above the inner knee, and the soft area above that is Xuehai.

    Benefits: Xuehai promotes blood circulation and regulates the immune system to suppress allergic reactions. As blood becomes clearer and circulation improves, skin itching, hives, and pruritis from allergies are relieved.

    Acupressure Method: While sitting, slowly press Xuehai with your thumb for 30-40 seconds. Moderate pressure is appropriate when you feel a bone-pressing sensation. Repeat 2-3 times daily.

    4. Fengshi (GB31)

    Location: On the outer side of the thigh, on the lateral surface of the femur. When standing upright with arms naturally at your sides, the point where your middle finger’s tip touches is Fengshi. Find the midpoint on the outer surface of the thigh.

    Benefits: Fengshi is the acupoint that eliminates “wind,” removing wind-pathogen (feng-xie), the primary cause of allergies in traditional Chinese medicine. It is highly effective for relieving allergic rhinitis, hives, and itching. It also improves circulation in the legs and strengthens the body’s resistance.

    Acupressure Method: While standing or sitting, stimulate Fengshi with your thumb in circular motions for 20-30 seconds. Start gently and gradually increase pressure. Repeat 3-5 times daily.

    5. Fengmen (BL12)

    Location: Located at the back of the neck, just below the prominent bone at the base of the neck (the 7th cervical vertebra, C7), on both sides. It is positioned approximately 1.5 cun lateral to the midline of the spine. When lowering your head, find the most prominent bone at the base of the neck and locate the points on both sides below it.

    Benefits: Fengmen is an important acupoint alongside Fengshi that removes wind-pathogen, and is excellent for preventing and relieving cold, rhinitis, and allergy symptoms. It alleviates neck muscle tension and improves upper respiratory circulation, immediately reducing nasal congestion, sneezing, and nasal discharge.

    Acupressure Method: When touching the back of the neck, be careful. Simultaneously stimulate both sides of the back of the neck with your middle fingers in gentle circular motions for 20-30 seconds. Avoid excessive pressure; a mild compression sensation accompanied by warmth is appropriate.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Follow this 5-minute routine every morning and evening:

    1. Yingxiang (beside nose) — 30 seconds, stimulate both sides simultaneously
    2. Quchi (elbow) — 30 seconds, each arm separately
    3. Fengshi (outer thigh) — 30 seconds, each leg separately
    4. Xuehai (above inner knee) — 40 seconds, both sides simultaneously
    5. Fengmen (back of neck) — 30 seconds, both sides simultaneously

    Tip: Morning acupressure prevents allergy symptoms, while evening acupressure relieves fatigue accumulated throughout the day. Drinking warm water after acupressure enhances its effectiveness.

    🤰 Pregnancy Caution: Some 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, be sure to consult with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before performing these techniques.
    ⚠️ 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.

  • Yingxiang (LI20) vs Shangxing (GV23) — Which Acupoint Should You Press?

    One-line summary: Yingxiang is the expert at resolving localized symptoms around the nose, while Shangxing is the expert at alleviating headaches centered in the brain and eye fatigue. Choose based on whether your symptoms are located in the nose or head area.

    What’s the Difference Between Yingxiang and Shangxing?

    Among acupoints, there’s one pair that causes particular confusion: Yingxiang (LI20) and Shangxing (GV23). Since both are effective for nasal symptoms and headaches, questions like “which one should I press?” come up constantly. But upon closer inspection, these two acupoints differ clearly in which body areas they govern, how energy flows through them, and which symptoms they work best on. Yingxiang excels at quickly resolving localized discomfort on the face, while Shangxing works more deeply on overall energy flow and brain-centered symptom relief. This article will help you accurately identify both acupoints and provide selection criteria that match your symptoms and constitution.

    Exploring Yingxiang (LI20) in Depth

    Precise Location

    Yingxiang is an acupoint on the Large Intestine meridian of the hand, located directly beside the nostril on the face. More precisely, it sits in the center of the nasolabial groove (the fold between the nostril and upper lip) on the outer side of the nostril. Finding it is simple: place your index finger beside the nostril and move it slightly upward—you’ll feel a small indentation, and that’s exactly where Yingxiang is. There’s one on each side, so you stimulate both sides symmetrically. Since this is one of the most sensitive areas on the face, identifying the precise location is important.

    Who Should Try This

    Yingxiang shines brightest when acute nasal symptoms suddenly appear. It’s ideal for sudden nasal congestion that feels stuffy, emergency situations with nosebleeds, runny nose and sneezing from allergic rhinitis, and nasal symptoms in the early stages of a cold. It also rapidly alleviates localized pain beside the nose from facial nerve pain or trigeminal neuralgia, as well as aching sensations in the upper-middle face. Yingxiang’s power is especially pronounced when symptoms are sudden, localized, and require immediate relief.

    Acupressure Method and Tips

    When pressing Yingxiang, gentle yet precise stimulation is essential. Using a clean index finger, find the small indentation beside the nostril and slowly press straight down to a depth of about 1 cm. The pressure should produce a sensation of comfort—a slight soreness and heaviness (what practitioners call a “sore-distending sensation”)—that feels just right. Press for 3–5 seconds at a time, then slowly release, repeating 10 times. When experiencing nasal symptoms, it’s fine to stimulate 3–4 times per day. Press with the soft part of your fingertip rather than your nail to avoid damaging facial skin.

    Exploring Shangxing (GV23) in Depth

    Precise Location

    Shangxing is an acupoint on the Governing Vessel, located on the midline of the head. To find it, start from a point slightly above the space between your eyebrows (the glabella). It sits approximately 1 cun (about 3 cm) above the center of the forehead—specifically, 1 cun above the anterior hairline on the midline. Slowly move your fingers downward along the midline and you’ll feel a slight indentation or notice the acupoint’s response. Stimulate with two fingers pressed simultaneously or use a single thumb to press precisely. If the location isn’t clear, use the guideline of approximately two finger-widths above the glabella.

    Who Should Try This

    Shangxing is effective for symptoms centered on the brain and nervous system. Chronic headaches, migraines, heaviness or stiffness in the back of the head, and tension headaches from stress are primary conditions it addresses. It also helps with nasal congestion, but unlike Yingxiang, it’s particularly useful when congestion occurs alongside headaches. It’s also excellent for eye fatigue and pain, as well as feelings of pressure around the eyes from prolonged concentration. Additionally, when your nerves feel sensitive, concentration drops, or you feel mentally foggy alongside dizziness, Shangxing stabilizes the nervous system. Shangxing shines when symptoms are chronic and related to overall energy flow and brain fatigue.

    Acupressure Method and Tips

    When pressing Shangxing, precision on the midline is key. Using your thumb or index finger, slowly press the midline slightly above the glabella while searching for the “correct spot.” When stimulus reaches the right location, you’ll feel a resonance deep in the brain. Press for 3–5 seconds, then slowly release, repeating 10–15 times. Shangxing requires slightly gentler stimulation than Yingxiang, as the area contains densely packed sensitive nerves and blood vessels in the upper-central face. Pressing it daily—upon waking in the morning or when fatigued in the evening—creates excellent cumulative effects. When experiencing headaches, stimulate about 2–3 times per day.

    Key Comparison Summary

    Item Yingxiang (LI20) Shangxing (GV23)
    Meridian Large Intestine Meridian (Yang Ming) Governing Vessel (center of qi)
    Location Beside nostril, center of nasolabial groove 1 cun above glabella, midline of forehead
    Primary Effects Nasal congestion, nosebleeds, allergies, cold symptoms Headaches, eye pain, nervous system calming
    Symptom Character Acute, localized Chronic, systemic
    Difficulty Finding Location Very easy (facial surface) Moderate (head midline)
    Stimulation Intensity Moderate to strong Light to moderate
    Immediacy of Effect High (seconds to minutes) Moderate (minutes to hours)
    Recommended Situations Sudden nasal symptoms Chronic headaches, brain fatigue

    Pressing Both Together Creates Synergy

    What’s interesting is that stimulating Yingxiang and Shangxing together produces deeper effects than pressing either alone. This is especially true when nasal and head symptoms occur simultaneously—for example, headaches caused by nasal congestion, or headaches and nasal symptoms from a cold. The order of stimulation doesn’t matter much, but generally starting with Shangxing and finishing with Yingxiang is most effective. This sequence first organizes the brain’s energy with Shangxing, then alleviates localized symptoms with Yingxiang. When pressing both, spend about 10 presses on each, taking 2–3 minutes total, and ideally do this twice daily (morning and evening). This combination is especially powerful during seasonal cold outbreaks or allergic rhinitis accompanied by headaches. Having a partner apply acupressure, or simultaneously stimulating both sides with both hands yourself, works well too.

    Conclusion: Situation-Based Selection Guide

    Choose Yingxiang: When your nose suddenly becomes congested, your nose bleeds, you have nasal discharge from rhinitis, you’re experiencing early cold symptoms, one side of your face hurts, or you need relief “right now.” Yingxiang is your face’s emergency room.

    Choose Shangxing: When you have chronic headaches, your eyes are fatigued from work, your head feels heavy from stress, you’ve had nasal congestion lasting a week or longer, your nerves feel sensitive, or you want to restore your overall condition. Shangxing is your brain’s organizer.

    Press Both Together: When a cold blocks your nose and gives you a headache, when allergies make your eyes hurt and nose congested, or when chronic rhinitis has triggered headaches. These two acupoints approach symptoms from different directions yet work in perfect harmony, so stimulating both together doubles their effectiveness.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or there’s a possibility of pregnancy, always consult a Korean medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for health information purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a healthcare professional.