Acupoint Guide

Tag: lung health

  • 5 Acupoints Beneficial for Cough and Bad Breath

    One-line Summary: Pressing 5 acupoints that regulate lung and digestive function simultaneously can improve both cough and bad breath.

    Introduction

    When cough and bad breath appear together, daily life becomes uncomfortable. While these two symptoms appear separate, they are actually both related to the health of the lungs and digestive system. When lung health is poor, immunity decreases, and when damp-heat in the digestive system increases, bad breath becomes worse. Fortunately, in traditional medicine there are acupoints that can simultaneously relieve both cough and bad breath.

    5 Acupoints Beneficial for Cough and Bad Breath

    1. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: Located in the depression below the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra at the back of the neck. When you bend your head forward, you can identify the most prominent bone protruding from the back of the neck, and the hollow area directly below that bone is the Dazhui point.

    Effects: Dazhui strengthens lung qi and boosts immunity, providing excellent relief for cough. At the same time, it replenishes qi throughout the body to strengthen resistance, which also helps improve bad breath.

    Acupressure Technique: With your neck bent slightly forward, press the Dazhui point vertically using the tip of your thumb or middle finger. Hold for 10 seconds, then release. Repeat 10 times. Applying a warming patch is also effective.

    2. Qizhong — CV17

    Location: Located on the breastbone in the center of the chest, at the point where an imaginary horizontal line connecting both nipples meets the breastbone (4th intercostal space). You can easily locate it by placing your hands together and using your fingers.

    Effects: Qizhong is an acupoint that gathers qi and provides immediate relief for chest tightness and cough. It strengthens the bronchi and lungs, improves respiratory health, and normalizes digestive function to eliminate the underlying cause of bad breath.

    Acupressure Technique: While lying flat on your back, stack your middle fingers vertically and press the Qizhong point perpendicularly. Gently massage in a circular motion for 1 minute. It is best to repeat 3 times daily: morning, midday, and evening.

    3. Liequi — LU7

    Location: Located about 1.5 cun (approximately 2cm) above the wrist crease. It is situated in the hollow area directly above the thumb bone (radial styloid process), and can be easily pressed with the opposite hand.

    Effects: As an important acupoint on the Lung meridian, it is particularly effective for relieving cough and phlegm. It relieves throat pain, strengthens lung function, and promotes metabolism to address the root cause of bad breath.

    Acupressure Technique: With your arm extended, press the Liequi point firmly with the thumb of your opposite hand. Press for 10 seconds at a pressure that causes slight discomfort and repeat 5 times. Perform this on both arms equally.

    4. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: Located about 8 cun (approximately 24cm) below the lateral superior tibial condyle, moving toward the ankle. It is situated at the midpoint of the lateral surface of the tibia (shin bone), and when pressed with your fingers, it feels slightly indented.

    Effects: Fenglong is an acupoint that removes damp-heat from the Gallbladder and expels moisture from the digestive system, which is a major cause of bad breath. At the same time, it cools heat from the lungs to relieve cough and improves metabolism to restore respiratory health.

    Acupressure Technique: Sit in a chair and place one leg up, then press the Fenglong point vertically with your thumb or middle finger. Press for 10 seconds and release. Repeat 15 times. Perform this once daily on both legs.

    5. Chizel — LU5

    Location: At the elbow crease (the fold on the front of the elbow when the arm is bent), on the lateral side of the biceps tendon (thumb side). It is located just lateral to the tendon you can feel when extending your arm.

    Effects: As a key acupoint on the Lung meridian, it directly strengthens lung and bronchial health. It rapidly relieves cough, phlegm, and bronchitis, and restores lung function to eliminate the root cause of bad breath, and even improves skin health.

    Acupressure Technique: Apply vertical pressure to the Chizel point with the thumb of your opposite hand. Press firmly but at a level that doesn’t hurt, holding for 10 seconds and releasing. Repeat 10 times. It is most effective to perform this twice daily, morning and evening.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Step 1 (1 minute): Bend your neck forward and press the Dazhui point with your thumb for 10 seconds at a time, repeating 5 times.
    Step 2 (1 minute): While lying down, massage the Qizhong point in circular motions with your middle finger for 1 minute.
    Step 3 (1 minute): With your arms extended, press the Liequi point firmly with your thumb for 10 seconds at a time, repeating 5 times.
    Step 4 (1 minute): Sit in a chair and press the Fenglong point with your thumb for 10 seconds at a time, repeating 5 times (both legs).
    Step 5 (1 minute): With your arms extended, press the Chizel point with your thumb for 10 seconds at a time, repeating 5 times.
    Repeat this routine twice daily, morning and evening, and you can feel improvement in cough and bad breath within one week.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before proceeding.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

  • 5 Best Acupoints for Phlegm — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-Line Summary: Pressing 5 acupoints that strengthen the lungs and eliminate phlegm-damp for 5 minutes daily can improve phlegm symptoms within 3 days.

    Introduction

    Are you experiencing constant coughing and breathing difficulty due to phlegm stuck in your throat? According to traditional Chinese medicine, phlegm forms when moisture and heat accumulate in the lungs. By stimulating specific acupoints, you can normalize lung function and expel phlegm quickly. You can see results simply by pressing these points with your fingers, without any medication.

    5 Effective Acupoints for Phlegm

    1. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: On the outer aspect of the lower leg, 8 cun (approximately 6 finger-widths) above the outer ankle bone in the direction of the knee, located on the lateral aspect of the tibia (shin bone).

    Effect: An acupoint that eliminates phlegm-damp and moisture. By removing the “dampness” that causes phlegm formation in the lungs, it promotes phlegm expulsion.

    Pressure Technique: Press firmly with your thumb for 5 seconds, then rest for 3 seconds. Repeat 20 times per session. Pressing in the evening between 7-9 PM yields the strongest results.

    2. Chize — LU5

    Location: On the inner aspect of the arm, at the outer edge of the inner crease of the elbow when the elbow is bent.

    Effect: An acupoint that clears lung heat and promotes phlegm expulsion. By removing heat accumulated in the lungs, it alleviates both dry cough and phlegm simultaneously.

    Pressure Technique: Slowly press 5 times with your opposite thumb. Alternate between arms, spending 1 minute on each side. Best performed between 5-7 AM.

    3. Feishu — BL13

    Location: On the upper back, at the level below the third rib, approximately 2 cun (thumb-width) lateral to the spine.

    Effect: An acupoint that directly strengthens lung function and fortifies the entire respiratory system. By enhancing the lungs’ defensive capacity, it prevents phlegm recurrence.

    Pressure Technique: Place a tennis ball against the wall and lean back to apply pressure, or have a partner slowly press with their thumb. Hold for 30 seconds per session, 3 times daily.

    4. Zusanli — ST36

    Location: 4 cun (3 finger-widths) below the knee, on the lateral aspect of the tibia. Approximately 10 cm below the knee in the direction of the ankle.

    Effect: Enhances the body’s immunity and strengthens the lungs’ resistance. Not only eliminates phlegm but is also excellent for preventing colds.

    Pressure Technique: Press with your thumb using circular massage motions for 1 minute. Alternate between both legs. Performing this 1 hour after meals also promotes digestion.

    5. Danzhong — REN17

    Location: At the center of the chest, at the point where the horizontal line connecting the two nipples meets the center of the sternum (breastbone).

    Effect: A key acupoint that regulates the lungs and entire respiratory system. By deepening breathing and increasing lung capacity, it accelerates phlegm expulsion.

    Pressure Technique: Press vertically with your fingertip (middle finger) for 3 seconds, then slowly release. Repeat 15 times per session. Performing this for 5 minutes before bedtime activates phlegm expulsion during sleep.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Step 1 (1 minute): Press Zusanli (ST36) on both legs, 30 seconds each
    Step 2 (1 minute): Press Fenglong (ST40) on both legs, 30 seconds each
    Step 3 (1 minute): Press Chize (LU5) on both arms, 30 seconds each
    Step 4 (1 minute): Press Danzhong (REN17) for 1 minute
    Step 5 (1 minute): Press Feishu (BL13) on the back with a tennis ball for 1 minute

    Following this routine after waking in the morning and before bedtime at night will noticeably reduce phlegm within 3 days. Be careful not to use your fingernails, and performing this after a warm shower makes it easier to locate the acupoints.

    🤰 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 may be pregnant, be sure to consult with an acupuncturist or healthcare professional before performing 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.

  • 5 Acupoints for Simultaneous Relief of Cough and Drooling

    Summary: When cough and excessive drooling appear together, stimulating 5 acupoints that strengthen lung function and regulate the digestive system can provide rapid symptom relief.

    Introduction

    Experiencing cough and excessive drooling simultaneously is quite inconvenient and stressful in daily life. In particular, these symptoms can repeat due to seasonal changes, post-cold complications, or chronic weakening of lung function. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, these symptoms are considered related to reduced lung function. Fortunately, by stimulating specific acupoints, you can improve both symptoms at the same time.

    5 Best Acupoints for Cough and Excessive Drooling

    1. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: Below the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra at the back of the neck. When you bend your head forward, it is located in the hollow depression directly below the most protruding bone (vertebra). It is positioned at the boundary between the neck and upper back.

    Effects: Dazhui is the acupoint that governs the body’s yang qi and significantly enhances lung function. It boosts immunity and quickly relieves cough caused by the common cold. Additionally, it stabilizes the nervous system, improving excessive drooling as well.

    Pressure technique: Using a warm finger or thumb, press firmly on the Dazhui acupoint for 3-5 seconds and release. Repeat this 10 times. One set takes about 1 minute, and it is best to perform this 3 times daily. Applying warmth with a warm compress for 5-10 minutes is also effective.

    2. Tianzhong — CV17

    Location: Located on the breastbone in the center of the chest. It is at the midpoint where a line connecting both nipples intersects, which is in the 4th intercostal space (the space between the fourth ribs). Trace your finger down along the breastbone and find the hollow depression in the 4th intercostal space.

    Effects: Tianzhong is an important acupoint that regulates the entire respiratory system. It directly improves lung function and calms cough. It also normalizes the function of the esophagus and pharynx, stopping excessive drooling. It is also effective for asthma and chronic cough.

    Pressure technique: While lying down comfortably, use a clean middle or index finger to press the Tianzhong acupoint slowly for 5 seconds and release. Repeat 15 times. Do not press too hard; apply pressure to the point where you feel slight discomfort. Perform this 2 times daily, morning and evening.

    3. Lieque — LU7

    Location: Located approximately 1.5 cun (about 2 cm) above the wrist crease. It is in the hollow depression above the radial styloid process (the bony protrusion on the thumb side of the wrist). With your hand extended, find the point slightly below the webbing between the thumb and index finger, just above the wrist crease.

    Effects: Lieque is an important acupoint on the lung meridian that restores lung function and facilitates easier breathing. It reduces the frequency of cough and improves dryness in the throat, helping to regulate excessive drooling. It is also highly effective for relieving early symptoms of the common cold.

    Pressure technique: Using the thumb of the opposite hand, press the Lieque acupoint inward. Press for 3-5 seconds and release, repeating 10 times while alternating arms. Perform this 4-5 times daily, taking about 1 minute each time. Stimulation with a rotating motion is more effective.

    4. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: Located on the outer side of the leg, below the knee. It is 8 cun (approximately 24 cm) down from the lateral epicondyle (the protruding bone on the side of the knee) toward the ankle. Find the hollow depression on the outer side of the tibia (shinbone). It is easier to locate with the knee bent.

    Effects: Fenglong is an acupoint that connects the stomach and lungs, improving digestive function while simultaneously normalizing the respiratory system. Excessive drooling often worsens due to weakened digestive function, and Fenglong effectively addresses this. It also calms cough and helps remove phlegm.

    Pressure technique: While sitting, extend your legs and use your thumb to press firmly on the Fenglong acupoint inward and release. Repeat 15 times while alternating legs. One set takes about 2 minutes. It is good to perform this 2-3 times daily. Gentle circular massage is also effective.

    5. Chize — LU5

    Location: Located on the inner side of the arm, above the elbow crease. When the arm is extended, the elbow crease is visible. Find the lateral (thumb side) of the biceps tendon (the tendon of the arm muscle) directly above that crease. You can feel slight discomfort when pressing this point with your finger.

    Effects: Chize is the acupoint that removes heat from the lungs and rapidly relieves cough. It alleviates throat inflammation and regulates the moisture in the mouth that causes excessive drooling. It has direct effects when cough is severe and immediately improves throat discomfort.

    Pressure technique: Sit in a comfortable position and use the thumb of the opposite hand to press the Chize acupoint. Start with gentle pressure and gradually increase the intensity. Press for 3-5 seconds and repeat 5 times, alternating arms. Perform this 3 times daily, taking about 1 minute each time. Stimulating in the evening is particularly effective for relieving nighttime cough.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    5-minute routine for cough and excessive drooling relief: First, apply warmth to or press Dazhui (GV14) for 1 minute (this can be done while sitting). Next, slowly press Tianzhong (CV17) for 1 minute in a comfortable position. Then stimulate bilateral Lieque (LU7) for 1 minute and press bilateral Fenglong (ST40) for 1 minute. Finally, finish by stimulating bilateral Chize (LU5) for 1 minute. This routine is most effective when performed in the morning after waking and before bed at night. It is particularly beneficial to perform it once more around midday on days when cough is severe. You should feel slight discomfort at each acupoint for it to be effective, so it is important to adjust the intensity according to your constitution.

    🤰 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 there is a possibility of pregnancy, be sure to consult with a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before proceeding.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.

  • 5 Beneficial Acupoints for Simultaneous Relief of Cough and Excessive Tearing

    One-Sentence Summary: Cough and excessive tearing stem from weakened lung function and imbalanced fluid metabolism. Acupressure on the Dachu (GV14), Shanzhong (CV17), Lieque (LU7), Fenglong (ST40), and Chize (LU5) acupoints can improve both lung and spleen function simultaneously.

    Introduction

    Do you experience persistent cough with excessive tearing during winter or allergy season? These two symptoms are not separate issues but signals that your body’s fluid metabolism and lung function have weakened. In traditional Chinese medicine, cough and excessive tearing are understood to result from decreased ability of the lungs to regulate body fluids. In this post, we introduce 5 acupoints that can improve both symptoms simultaneously.

    5 Best Acupoints for Cough and Excessive Tearing

    1. Dachu — GV14

    Location: Below the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra in the depression. When you bow your head deeply, it’s the hollow area just below the most prominent bone at the back of your neck (the 7th cervical vertebra). It’s easy to find by gently pressing with the thumbs and index fingers of both hands.

    Benefits: Dachu strengthens the yang qi of the entire body and enhances lung function. It suppresses cough, boosts immunity, and activates overall metabolism, helping to reduce excessive tearing.

    Acupressure Technique: Using your finger joints, press firmly for 5 seconds and release, repeating 10 times, or massage in circular motions for 1 minute. Warm hands are more effective, so rub your hands together to warm them before starting.

    2. Shanzhong — CV17

    Location: On the sternum at the midpoint between the two nipples (at the 4th intercostal space). There is a slight depression about one finger-width in this area.

    Benefits: Shanzhong is an important acupoint that regulates the qi of the lungs and heart. It improves respiratory function, suppresses the cough reflex, and normalizes fluid circulation in the body to regulate tear secretion.

    Acupressure Technique: Using the tip of your thumb, press slowly for 5 seconds and release, repeating 10 times. Avoid pressing too hard, as maintaining pressure intensity just before pain is important. Perform this while sitting in a comfortable position and taking deep breaths.

    3. Lieque — LU7

    Location: 1.5 cun (approximately 2cm) above the inner wrist crease, just above the styloid process of the radius (the bony prominence on the thumb side). When you slightly bend your wrist and place both thumbs against each other, you can feel the depression.

    Benefits: Lieque is a key acupoint on the Lung meridian and is most effective for relieving cough and cold symptoms. It also regulates fluid metabolism in the facial area, improving excessive tear secretion.

    Acupressure Technique: With the thumb and index finger of the opposite hand, pinch gently and press for 5 seconds, then release, repeating 10 times. Apply to both arms, and it’s particularly effective when applied before sleep or when cough is severe.

    4. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: About 8 cun (approximately 24cm) down from the outer edge of the knee (the lateral epicondyle) toward the ankle, at the center of the outer surface of the tibia (shinbone). It’s located at the same height when comparing both calves.

    Benefits: Fenglong is a key point on the Spleen meridian and is essential for regulating fluid metabolism in the body. It normalizes excessive tear secretion and respiratory secretions, while simultaneously relieving cough caused by weakened lung function.

    Acupressure Technique: Sit comfortably, straighten your knees, and using your thumb or finger joint, press firmly for 5 seconds and release, repeating 10 times. Apply to both legs, with a level of pressure that produces slight discomfort.

    5. Chize — LU5

    Location: When your elbow is bent, on the inner elbow crease, at the outer end of the biceps tendon (the thick tendon). When pressing with your finger, you can feel a slight depression and warmth.

    Benefits: Chize is the Sea point of the Lung meridian, specialized in eliminating lung heat and controlling cough. It also improves blood circulation around the face and eyes, regulating excessive tear secretion.

    Acupressure Technique: Using the thumb of the opposite hand, press gently for 5 seconds, then release, repeating 10 times. Performing this while sitting with your elbow extended allows for accurate point stimulation.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Morning Cough Relief Routine (approximately 5 minutes): Before getting up, while lying in bed, massage Dachu in circular motions for 1 minute to awaken overall qi. Next, stimulate both Lieque and Chize for 30 seconds each to activate lung function (2 minutes). Sitting up, apply acupressure to both Fenglong points for 1 minute each to normalize fluid metabolism (2 minutes). Finally, slowly press Shanzhong while taking 10 deep breaths to circulate qi. Repeat this routine twice daily (morning and evening), and you can experience symptom improvement within 3-5 days.

    🤰 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 might be pregnant, consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before applying these techniques.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational health purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, consult a healthcare professional.