Acupoint Guide

Tag: Quchi

  • 5 Acupoints for Cough and Cold Hands and Feet

    One-line summary: Cough and cold hands and feet are symptoms that appear due to lack of Qi (氣) and blood circulation. Stimulating five acupoints—Dazhui, Tanzhong, Lieque, Fenglong, and Chize—can simultaneously improve both conditions.

    Introduction

    When winter arrives, many people experience worsening cough and cold hands and feet. These two symptoms may seem like separate problems, but in traditional medicine, we understand them as resulting from both decreased lung function and insufficient circulation throughout the body. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could relieve both symptoms using only acupoint massage without taking medication? Today, I’ll introduce five acupoints that are simultaneously effective for both cough and cold hands and feet.

    Five Acupoints for Cough and Cold Hands and Feet

    1. Dazhui (GV14) — WHO Code: GV14

    Location: When you lower your neck, it’s the depression below the protruding spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra. You can find it just below the prominent bony protrusion felt along the border between the neck and upper back.

    Benefits: Dazhui is called “the meeting point of all yang Qi,” and it strengthens the body’s immunity and enhances lung function. It excels not only at relieving cough but also at improving hypothermia caused by cold hands and feet.

    Massage method: Using your thumb or a massage tool, press slowly for 3-5 minutes until you feel warmth. It’s best to repeat this 2-3 times daily.

    2. Tanzhong (CV17) — WHO Code: CV17

    Location: Located at the center of the chest, precisely at the midpoint of the line connecting the two nipples (medically the 4th intercostal space). If you place both hands on your chest and feel with your index finger, you can find a small depression.

    Benefits: As the central acupoint of the respiratory system, it’s very effective at relieving cough and improving breathing. It also smooths the flow of Qi (氣) in the chest, alleviating the discomfort caused by cold hands and feet.

    Massage method: While lying down, slowly press with your thumb or apply warm moxibustion. Stimulating this point for 3-5 minutes in the evening helps reduce nighttime cough.

    3. Lieque (LU7) — WHO Code: LU7

    Location: It’s located approximately 1.5 cun (the width of the thumb and index finger) above the wrist crease on the thumb side. It’s the slightly recessed area found above the styloid process of the radius (the wrist bone on the thumb side) when you press with your finger.

    Benefits: As the jing-well point of the Lung meridian, it provides immediate relief for acute cough and cold symptoms. It improves circulation in the hands and arms, simultaneously addressing cold hands and feet.

    Massage method: Using the opposite thumb, locate the exact point and press firmly for 1 minute, then slowly release. Repeat on both arms, and perform this 3-4 times daily for best results.

    4. Fenglong (ST40) — WHO Code: ST40

    Location: It’s located 8 cun (approximately twice the width of four fingers) downward from the small bone on the outer upper knee (lateral epicondyle) toward the ankle. You can find it by following the outer side of the tibia (shin bone), specifically along the outer center of the leg.

    Benefits: As an important acupoint on the Stomach meridian, it’s effective at promoting recovery from fatigue and boosting metabolism. It improves circulation throughout the body, fundamentally addressing cold hands and feet while simultaneously promoting rapid recovery from cough-related fatigue.

    Massage method: While sitting, slowly press with your thumb or massage in circular motions. Stimulate for 3-5 minutes until you feel warmth, twice daily.

    5. Chize (LU5) — WHO Code: LU5

    Location: When you bend your elbow at 90 degrees, it’s located above the elbow crease, on the outer edge of the biceps tendon. When you straighten your arm and feel the inside of your elbow, you can feel the protruding tendon.

    Benefits: As the he-sea point of the Lung meridian (where Qi gathers), it quickly relieves cough, asthma, and throat discomfort. It improves circulation in the arms and hands, bringing warmth all the way to the fingertips.

    Massage method: Using the opposite thumb, repeatedly press slowly for 1-2 minutes and release. It’s safe to stimulate whenever you cough, and you can repeat this 4-5 times daily.

    5-Minute Self-Routine

    Morning (5 minutes after waking): Start your day energetically by stimulating Dazhui → Chize → Lieque in order, spending 1 minute on each. Midday (around noon): Press Fenglong for 2 minutes to recharge your Qi (氣). Evening (10 minutes before bed): Warmly press Tanzhong (3 minutes), then stimulate Dazhui again (2 minutes) before sleep to significantly reduce nighttime cough. If you maintain this routine for 2-3 weeks, you’ll notice a marked decrease in cough and feel your hands and feet warming up.

    🤰 Pregnancy Notice: Certain 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, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before using these techniques.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written 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.

  • Quchi (LI11) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    One-line summary: Quchi (LI11) is an acupoint located at the outer end of the elbow crease, which is excellent for relieving fever and high blood pressure, and improving skin problems and allergy symptoms.

    What is Quchi?

    Quchi (LI11) is the 11th acupoint of the Large Intestine meridian, located on the yang aspect of the arm meridian. It is one of the most important acupoints in traditional Chinese medicine, with the ability to clear heat from the body and promote the circulation of qi and blood. It is particularly frequently used for managing fever, high blood pressure, and skin conditions.

    How to Find the Exact Location

    Step 1: Bend your elbow at a 90-degree angle.
    Step 2: Find the crease of your elbow (elbow crease).
    Step 3: Locate the outer end of the elbow crease (on the thumb side).
    Step 4: When you press that point, you will feel a slight depression between the bone and tendon, which is Quchi.
    Tip: The exact location is where you feel slight soreness or tenderness when you press with your finger.

    Acupressure Method

    Basic Acupressure Technique:
    1. Sit in a comfortable position and bend your elbow.
    2. Find the location of Quchi using the thumb of your opposite hand.
    3. Apply pressure slowly, massaging in circular motions.
    4. Press for about 10-20 seconds, then slowly release the pressure.
    5. Repeat this motion 3-5 times.
    Intensity: A slight soreness that is tolerable (a dull aching sensation) is appropriate.
    Duration: Perform for about 1-2 minutes per session, 2-3 times per day.

    Main Benefits

    • Fever Relief: Quchi is the most effective acupoint for clearing heat from the body, rapidly alleviating high fever from colds or heat sensations in summer.
    • High Blood Pressure Management: It promotes the circulation of qi and blood to stabilize blood pressure, and sustained long-term acupressure helps improve symptoms of high blood pressure.
    • Skin Problem Resolution: It is effective for improving inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, atopic dermatitis, and eczema.
    • Allergy Symptom Relief: It suppresses allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis and urticaria.
    • Elbow Pain Relief: It directly alleviates tennis elbow and elbow pain.
    • Immune System Enhancement: Regular acupressure strengthens the immune system.

    When is the Best Time to Practice Acupressure?

    Optimal Time: Acupressure is more effective when performed in the afternoon between 3-5 PM (when the Large Intestine meridian is most active).
    Situational Recommendations:
    – When experiencing high fever: Perform immediately for fever-reducing effects
    – When skin is irritated: Practice acupressure consistently twice daily
    – When stressed: It helps calm the mind and body
    – For prevention: Regular acupressure 3-4 times weekly is effective for maintaining health

    Precautions

    When to Avoid: Avoid acupressure when there are wounds or infections on the skin.
    Avoid Excessive Pressure: Applying excessive pressure can cause tissue damage, so press only to the point where you feel tenderness.
    Pregnant Women Caution: Pregnant women should consult with a professional before proceeding.
    Professional Consultation: If you have chronic conditions or are taking long-term medications, consult with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
    Hygiene Management: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after acupressure, and use clean hands during the practice.

    🤰 Pregnant Women Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or potentially pregnant, you must consult with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before proceeding.
    ⚠️ 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 Beneficial for Cough and Skin Problems Simultaneously

    5 Acupoints Beneficial for Cough and Skin Problems Simultaneously

    One-line Summary: By consistently stimulating 5 acupoints that strengthen lung function, boost immunity, and promote skin regeneration, you can simultaneously relieve cough and skin problems.

    Introduction

    If you’ve been experiencing persistent cough and your skin has also deteriorated, this is because your respiratory system and skin are closely interconnected. In traditional medicine, it’s understood that weakened lung function leads to reduced skin cell turnover, which causes acne, dryness, and inflammation. In this article, we introduce 5 powerful acupoints that simultaneously relieve cough symptoms and restore skin health.

    5 Acupoints for Cough and Skin Problems

    1. Sanyinjiao — SP6

    Location: Located 3 cun (approximately 4 cm) above the inner ankle bone (medial malleolus) along the inner edge of the tibia, in the depression on the inner side of the shinbone.

    Effects: Activates spleen and liver function to improve the body’s water metabolism. This allows the skin to absorb moisture more effectively, while simultaneously promoting lung fluid secretion to alleviate dryness from cough. This is a key acupoint for strengthening immunity.

    Acupressure Technique: Using your thumb joint, slowly press for 5 seconds and rest for 5 seconds, repeating this pattern. Apply this technique to both legs for 2 minutes each. Performing this in the evening also helps promote better sleep.

    2. Quchi — LI11

    Location: Located at the outer end of the elbow crease on the inner arm when the arm is bent. When the elbow is fully flexed, it’s at the end of the vertical crease, on the side toward the thumb.

    Effects: Clears heat from the large intestine and regulates immune function. It cools throat heat caused by cough and simultaneously alleviates skin inflammation (acne, pimples) caused by intestinal heat. This is an important acupoint for balancing respiratory and digestive health.

    Acupressure Technique: Using the thumb of your opposite hand, apply firm pressure for 10 seconds and rest for 5 seconds, repeating this pattern. Apply this technique to both arms for 1.5 minutes each. Splitting the practice between morning and evening yields better results.

    3. Dazhui — GV14

    Location: Located in the depression directly below the most prominent bone when you lower your head (the 7th cervical vertebra), at the center of the line between the neck and upper back.

    Effects: Supplements the body’s yang qi and strengthens lung function. Improves weakened lung function, the root cause of chronic cough, and boosts overall immunity to strengthen the skin’s resistance. It’s particularly effective for respiratory systems sensitive to cold air and recurring skin issues.

    Acupressure Technique: Since it’s on the back of the neck, direct pressure may be difficult. Use the joint of your thumb or massage in circular motions with warm fingers. Apply this technique twice daily, 1 minute each time. Combining it with warm compress therapy doubles the effectiveness.

    4. Shanzhong — CV17

    Location: Located at the midpoint of the line connecting both nipples, on the breastbone (sternum) at the 4th intercostal space, in the center between both breasts.

    Effects: This is the most important acupoint for regulating lung and heart qi. It immediately relieves chest pain and tightness from cough, deepens breathing, and restores lung function. It also improves skin problems caused by hormonal imbalances from stress.

    Acupressure Technique: Massage gently in circular motions with your fingers, or press with warm hands for 5 seconds and rest, repeating this pattern. Placing four fingers from both hands together on the center of the chest and applying acupressure while taking deep breaths calms both body and mind. Apply this technique 3 times daily.

    5. Lieque — LU7

    Location: Located 1.5 cun (approximately 2 cm) above the wrist crease, above the radial styloid process (wrist bone) on the thumb side, in the depression between the radius and the radial styloid process.

    Effects: The most important acupoint of the lung meridian, it improves weakened lungs, the direct cause of cough. It keeps the nasal and throat mucous membranes moist to address cough symptoms at their root, and restores skin’s shine and elasticity. It shows immediate effects for acute cough.

    Acupressure Technique: Using the tip of your opposite hand’s thumb, slowly press for 10 seconds and rest for 5 seconds, repeating this pattern. Apply this technique to both arms for 2 minutes each. When cough is severe, it’s fine to apply this technique 4-5 times daily. It’s more effective if you soak your wrist in warm water before the treatment.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Morning (Right After Waking): First, stimulate Lieque (LU7) on both arms for 1 minute each to awaken your lungs. Then massage Shanzhong (CV17) for 1 minute while taking deep breaths.

    Midday (2-3 PM): Press Quchi (LI11) on both arms for 1 minute each to clear heat.

    Evening (Before Bed): Stimulate Sanyinjiao (SP6) on both legs for 2 minutes each, and finally massage Dazhui (GV14) for 1 minute. Following this sequence allows the meridians stimulated during the day to slowly recover throughout the night, so you’ll notice significant improvement in symptoms the next day.

    🤰 Pregnant Women 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, be sure to consult a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before performing these techniques.
    ⚠️ 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 a healthcare professional.
  • Quchi (LI11) vs Zusanli (ST36) — Which Acupoint Should You Press?

    Quchi (LI11) vs Zusanli (ST36) — Which Acupoint Should You Press?

    One-line summary: Qu Chi is the ‘heat-lowering acupoint for the upper body,’ while Zu San Li is the ‘whole-body-strengthening acupoint’—they work in completely opposite directions.

    Qu Chi and Zu San Li: What’s the Difference?

    These two acupoints are the most frequently used in Chinese medicine, yet despite their very different effects, they are often confused and labeled as ‘universal acupoints.’ Qu Chi excels at reducing upper body heat sensations (facial flushing or heat symptoms) and solving skin problems, while Zu San Li is a whole-body strengthening acupoint that enhances digestion and boosts immunity. When you understand how to properly distinguish between these two, you can manage your symptoms more accurately based on your specific needs.

    Exploring Qu Chi (LI11) in Depth

    Precise Location

    Qu Chi is an acupoint located on the Large Intestine meridian of the arm. When you bend your elbow at a 90-degree angle, it is located about one thumb’s width away from the outer end of the inner elbow crease. To find it accurately, bend your arm and move your finger along the elbow crease line until you reach the outer point where bone ends; you should feel a slight stiffness and tenderness when pressing on Qu Chi. Since the area around this acupoint is rich in nerves and blood vessels, pinpointing its exact location is important.

    Recommended For

    Since Qu Chi is a heat-lowering acupoint, it is especially recommended for those whose faces frequently feel flushed with heat sensation, or those with high blood pressure experiencing upper body heat. Additionally, those with skin inflammatory conditions such as acne, atopic dermatitis, or eczema, as well as those suffering from allergy symptoms (nasal congestion, itching) when seasons change, can also benefit. It also helps improve local blood flow when there is elbow joint pain or a numb sensation in the arm. It’s particularly beneficial to focus on managing this acupoint during spring allergic rhinitis or during summer skin troubles.

    Acupressure Method and Tips

    When applying pressure to Qu Chi, place your thumb tip vertically on the acupoint and apply pressure gradually but firmly. Press for 3 to 5 seconds at a time, then rest for 2 seconds and repeat. After about 5 minutes of consistent stimulation, you should feel the heat sensation dissipating. It is more effective to press deeply into the joint bone area rather than pressing hard with your fingernail. If you have high blood pressure, it’s good to press consistently 1-2 minutes morning and evening. When dealing with skin problems, acupressure before bedtime helps with skin regeneration during sleep. It is even more effective to warm your elbow with a heat pack first before applying acupressure.

    Exploring Zu San Li (ST36) in Depth

    Precise Location

    Zu San Li is an acupoint located on the Stomach meridian of the leg, positioned approximately 10cm (about three finger-widths) below the outer crease of the knee. More precisely, it is located about 1cm away from the outer edge of the anterior tibia (shinbone). It is at the same height on both legs, and the easiest way to find the exact location is to sit down, bend your knee, and move downward along the area below the knee while locating the bone edge. Since muscles and nerves are densely concentrated in the surrounding area, you may feel slight pain or stiffness when pressing on the exact location.

    Recommended For

    Zu San Li is called the ‘acupoint of longevity’ due to its excellent whole-body strengthening effects. It has direct benefits for those whose digestion is poor with frequent diarrhea or constipation, those who feel nauseous after eating or experience abdominal bloating, those with chronic fatigue who always feel heavy and lack energy, and those who easily catch colds with each seasonal change (those with weak immunity). By consistently stimulating Zu San Li, these individuals can experience constitutional improvement. Those with knee joint pain or easily swollen legs, as well as those with irregular menstrual cycles, can also benefit.

    Acupressure Method and Tips

    It is important to press Zu San Li deeper than Qu Chi. Use your thumb or finger joint to stimulate by pressing downward vertically, pressing steadily for 5 to 10 seconds at a time, then slowly release the pressure. After about 5-10 minutes of continued stimulation, you should feel warmth spreading throughout your entire leg. Since this is an area of the leg exposed to cold wind, it is more effective to pre-warm it with warm hands or a heat pack before applying acupressure. Particularly, if you press for 5 minutes consistently when waking up in the morning or during evening rest time, you can feel overall physical improvement. To boost immunity, it is good to stimulate this point consistently at least 3-4 times per week. Since the leg has a cold nature, it is recommended to use warm stimulation and acupressure together rather than cold compress therapy.

    Key Comparison Summary

    Item Qu Chi (LI11) Zu San Li (ST36)
    Primary Effects Heat reduction, skin conditions, allergy relief Immunity boost, digestion improvement, fatigue recovery
    Direction of Action Removes upper body heat (expels heat downward) Replenishes vital energy (strengthens whole body)
    Location Difficulty Easy (elbow crease) Moderate (must locate precisely below knee)
    Recommended Situations Facial heat sensation, high blood pressure, spring allergies Poor digestion, fatigue, seasonal colds
    Acupressure Intensity Moderate, 3-5 seconds repeated Deep, 5-10 seconds consistently
    Related Symptoms Acne, atopic dermatitis, elbow pain Diarrhea, nausea, knee pain

    Synergistic Benefits When Used Together

    Though Qu Chi and Zu San Li have opposing properties, they can be used simultaneously depending on the situation. For example, if you have high fever while also experiencing poor digestion and fatigue, you can first use Qu Chi to reduce the heat and then stimulate Zu San Li to restore energy. Additionally, if you have chronic fatigue along with summer skin troubles, you can stimulate Zu San Li in the evening to boost immunity and Qu Chi in the morning to calm skin inflammation, alternating stimulation at different times throughout the day. However, when you have high fever from a cold or acute inflammation, it is better to prioritize managing Qu Chi first, and then stimulate Zu San Li during the recovery phase after the inflammation subsides.

    Conclusion: Situation-Based Selection Guide

    The choice is not ‘Qu Chi or Zu San Li,’ but rather how to use them appropriately based on your situation. If your face frequently feels flushed with heat sensation and you have skin problems, prioritize managing **Qu Chi**. Conversely, if you have poor digestion, constant fatigue, and weak immunity, it is wise to focus on managing **Zu San Li**. The acupoints you need also change with the seasons—if you have skin troubles and heat sensation in spring and summer, stimulate Qu Chi; if you have fatigue and digestion problems in winter and early spring, prioritize stimulating Zu San Li. The most important factor is consistency. Stimulating these points for just one or two sessions is far less effective than maintaining a habit of pressing them for 5 minutes daily, which is much more effective for constitutional improvement and symptom relief.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as San Yin Jiao (SP6), He Gu (LI4), and Tai Chong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or there is a possibility of pregnancy, be sure to consult with a licensed acupuncturist or healthcare professional before practice.
    ⚠️ 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, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.