Tag: sore throat

LI3 (Third Interval) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique
One-line Summary: LI3 is an acupoint located behind the second metacarpophalangeal joint of the index finger, and is a versatile acupoint that quickly relieves toothache, sore throat, and eye pain.

What is LI3?

LI3 (Three Intervals) is an acupoint belonging to the Large Intestine meridian, located in the second metacarpophalangeal joint area of the finger. This acupoint is known to effectively relieve pain in the face and neck area, and is an important acupoint that has been used for a long time in traditional Chinese medicine. In particular, it is characterized by a quick response to acute pain, serving a role similar to first aid.

How to Find the Exact Location

Step 1: Extend your hand comfortably and look at your index finger.
Step 2: Find the second joint (second metacarpophalangeal joint) of your index finger. This is the area where wrinkles form when you bend and straighten your finger.
Step 3: Press the indented area (hollow section) on the thumb side (radial side, toward the thumb) of that wrinkle.
Step 4: When you find the correct location, you should feel slight pain or a refreshing sensation.

Acupressure Method

Basic Acupressure Technique:
1. Prepare by sitting or lying down in a comfortable position.
2. Use the side of your thumb nail or an acupressure tool.
3. Apply slight pressure perpendicular to the LI3 acupoint.
4. Press for 3-5 seconds, then slowly release the pressure.
5. Repeat this 10 times.
Tips to Enhance Effectiveness: It is more effective to perform acupressure while breathing deeply. It is fine to apply acupressure frequently when pain is severe.

Key Benefits
- Relief from Toothache: Effective for both acute and chronic toothache, and is frequently used as first aid before treatment.
- Relief from Sore Throat: Quickly relieves pain and discomfort caused by throat inflammation.
- Improvement of Eye Pain: Reduces eye fatigue, red eyes, eye pain, and relieves vision fatigue.
- Relief from Headache: Particularly helpful for migraines and tension headaches.
- Reduction of Facial Swelling: May help reduce facial puffiness.
When is it Good to Apply Acupressure?

Optimal Time: There are no specific time restrictions, and you can apply acupressure whenever you feel pain. However, it is best to avoid applying it within 1 hour after eating or when extremely tired.
Recommended in These Situations: While waiting for treatment, sudden toothache, sore throat, eye fatigue from prolonged screen work, and when experiencing headaches due to stress.

Precautions

Contraindications: Pregnant women should avoid LI3 acupressure. Excessive pressure or prolonged acupressure can cause skin damage, so maintain appropriate intensity.
Guidance: If persistent pain continues for 3 days or longer or worsens, be sure to consult a healthcare professional. Acupoint acupressure is a complementary therapy and cannot completely replace disease treatment.

🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as SP6, LI4, and LR3 can 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 applying acupressure.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for the purpose of providing health information and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult a healthcare professional.
April 1, 2026
Second Interval (LI2) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Exact Location and Acupressure Technique
One-line summary: LI2 is a natural acupressure point on the index finger that has immediate effects on relieving toothache and sore throat as an important acupoint of the Large Intestine meridian.

What is LI2?

LI2 is an acupoint belonging to the Large Intestine meridian, located on the index finger of the hand. In traditional medicine, it is called “nature’s pain reliever” and is an important acupoint with excellent effects on alleviating inflammatory diseases and pain in the upper body. Historically recorded in many medical classics, it is widely used in modern times as a self-care therapy that can be conveniently applied in daily life.

How to Find the Exact Location

Step-by-step location confirmation: First, spread your hand comfortably and examine your index finger. Second, moving downward from the tip of the finger toward the base, find the second interphalangeal joint (second joint). Third, press on the small indented area on the anterior side (toward the nail) of that joint toward the thumb side (radial side). Fourth, when pressing, you should feel slight tenderness or a refreshing sensation to confirm the accurate acupoint. The LI2 point exists at the same location on the opposite hand as well, so you can stimulate both sides.

Acupressure Method

Basic acupressure method: First, sit in a comfortable position and spread your hand. Then, precisely position the tip of your opposite hand’s thumb at the LI2 acupoint. Apply pressure vertically and slowly toward LI2 over 2-3 seconds. Press with a tolerable intensity (around 7-8 out of 10) and hold for 3-5 seconds. Slowly release the pressure and relax over 2-3 seconds. Repeat 10-20 times on one hand, then proceed with the other hand in the same manner. Tip for maximum effectiveness: It is important to apply vertical pressure at the exact location without rubbing or rotating. Performing this regularly every day will be even more effective.

Main Effects
- Toothache relief: As an acupoint of the Large Intestine meridian, LI2 rapidly alleviates pain around the face and mouth. When acute toothache occurs, immediate acupressure can significantly reduce the intensity of pain.
- Sore throat improvement: When the throat is sore and inflamed, acupressure on LI2 relieves throat tension and alleviates inflammation. It is effective for sore throat caused by common cold or chronic throat discomfort.
- Stopping nosebleed: When nosebleed occurs, pressing LI2 regulates blood circulation and stops the nosebleed quickly. It is particularly effective for nosebleeds caused by stress or dryness.
When is it Good to Apply Acupressure?

Optimal timing: LI2 can be pressed whenever needed, but it is most effective to apply pressure immediately when pain occurs. Applying pressure when you wake up in the morning can provide preventive effects throughout the day, and evening pressure helps with fatigue recovery. After 30 minutes following meals is a good time for acupressure, and pressing once more before sleep can improve sleep quality. Usage by situation: It can also be used as an emergency treatment by applying pressure immediately when toothache occurs, when experiencing sore throat pain, or when nosebleed happens.

Precautions

Precautions when applying acupressure: If you are pregnant or have a serious medical condition, consult with a healthcare professional beforehand. Pressing too strongly can cause tissue damage, so maintain appropriate pressure within the range of tolerable pain. Avoid areas with skin wounds or infections. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear after acupressure, visit a medical facility. Since LI2 acupressure is only a supplementary treatment, severe symptoms or persistent pain should be examined by a professional.

🤰 Pregnancy caution: Some acupoints such as SP6, LI4, LR3, etc., can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional before applying.

⚠️ Medical disclaimer: This article is written for the purpose of providing health information and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.
April 1, 2026
Shangyang (LI1) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Exact Location and Acupressure Technique
One-Line Summary: Shangyang (LI1) is the first acupoint on the Large Intestine meridian, which alleviates sore throat, toothache, fever, and is used as emergency first aid for loss of consciousness, making it an important acupoint.

What is Shangyang?

Shangyang (商陽, LI1) is the first acupoint belonging to the Large Intestine meridian (大腸經), located on the outer edge of the index fingernail. Regarded as an important acupoint in Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is widely used for treating inflammation, pain, and fever symptoms. It is particularly effective at restoring consciousness in emergencies and is also known as an emergency first aid acupoint.

How to Find the Exact Location

Step 1: Extend your right index finger and look at the fingernail.
Step 2: Find the outer edge of the fingernail (the side opposite the thumb).
Step 3: It is located about 0.1 cun (approximately 3mm) inward from the fingernail tip, at the outer border where the fingernail meets the skin.
Location Confirmation Tip: It exists on both fingers, and when you press slightly inward from the outer edge of the fingernail toward the skin, you will feel slight tenderness. This point is the correct Shangyang.

Acupressure Method

Basic Acupressure Technique:
1. Sit in a comfortable position, extend your hand, and relax.
2. Use the tip of your thumb or index finger of the opposite hand to locate the Shangyang point.
3. Slowly press and release vertically, repeating at 3-5 second intervals.
4. Apply acupressure for 1-2 minutes at a time, repeating 2-3 times daily.
Intensity Adjustment: Start with gentle pressure and gradually increase. Avoid pressing to the point of pain; mild pressure sensation is appropriate.
In Emergency Situations: In case of loss of consciousness, pinching or firmly pressing Shangyang on both sides of the fingernail simultaneously can help restore consciousness.

Key Benefits
- Sore Throat Relief: Effectively soothes throat inflammation and pain, and reduces swelling.
- Toothache Improvement: Helps relieve tooth and gum pain and inflammation.
- Fever Relief: Effective in reducing fever symptoms caused by colds and general body aches.
- Consciousness Restoration: An emergency first aid acupoint that improves loss of consciousness, shock, and confusion in emergency situations.
- Additional Benefits: May also help alleviate nasal congestion, migraines, and facial swelling.
When is Acupressure Most Beneficial?

Optimal Time: Acupressure is most effective after waking in the morning and before bed in the evening. Starting immediately when early cold symptoms appear can prevent symptom progression.
Appropriate Situations: You can apply acupressure anytime as needed, such as when you have a sore throat, toothache, fever, cold symptoms, headache, or confusion.
Preventive Purpose: Gently stimulating it 2-3 times weekly as a preventive measure can help strengthen immunity and prevent illness.

Precautions

Precautions During Acupressure: Since the area is near the fingernail where injury can occur easily, be careful not to cause damage with the fingernail or sharp objects. Avoid pressing too hard or for too long, as this can damage the skin; maintain appropriate pressure intensity.
Medical Consultation: Persistent symptoms or serious conditions (high fever, severe pain, changes in consciousness, etc.) must be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Acupoint acupressure is a complementary therapy and cannot replace medical treatment.
Individual Variation: Effectiveness may vary depending on individual constitution and symptoms. It is important to find the intensity and frequency that works best for you.

🤰 Pregnancy Precaution: Certain acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or potentially pregnant, be sure to consult with a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine or a healthcare professional before applying acupressure.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for health information purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.
March 30, 2026
Shaoshang (LU11) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Accurate Location and Pressure Technique
One-line summary: Shaoshang (LU11) is the starting point of the Lung meridian, an emergency acupoint that rapidly relieves upper respiratory conditions including sore throat, fever, and cough.

What is Shaoshang?

Shaoshang (少商) is the 11th acupoint of the Lung meridian and marks the beginning of the Lung meridian pathway. The name means “Small Merchant,” referring to the point where Lung qi originates. The Donguibogam (traditional Korean medical text) documents it as a particularly effective acupoint for treating sore throat and fever, and it holds an important place in traditional medicine.

How to Find the Exact Location

Step 1: Open your hand and look at your thumb. Step 2: Observe the thumbnail. Step 3: Find the outer edge of the nail (toward the pinky side). Step 4: Locate the point about 0.1 cun (approximately 3mm) inward from the outer edge of the nail, near the boundary between the nail and skin. Step 5: When you gently press this point, you should feel a slight tenderness—this is Shaoshang.

Acupressure Method

Preparation: Sit in a comfortable position and let your hand rest naturally. Pressure: Use the thumb of your opposite hand to find the Shaoshang point and press vertically. Intensity: Start with light pressure and gradually increase the strength. Maintain moderate pressure that creates mild discomfort, but avoid excessive force. Duration: Press continuously for 1-2 minutes at a time, or apply pressure in 10-20 second intervals repeatedly. Frequency: Practice 2-3 times daily; when symptoms are severe, you may apply pressure more frequently as needed.

Main Benefits
- Sore throat (common cold throat): Rapidly reduces inflammation in the throat area and alleviates pain.
- Fever (high fever): Effectively lowers body temperature and promotes fever reduction.
- Cough: Regulates Lung qi to relieve dry cough and persistent cough.
- Nosebleed (epistaxis): Pressing Shaoshang helps stop bleeding when nosebleeds occur.
- Loss of consciousness: Used as an emergency first-aid acupoint to restore consciousness in urgent situations.
- Improved lung function: Enhances overall respiratory function and promotes bronchial health.
When Is It Best to Apply Acupressure?

Shaoshang is most effective when early cold symptoms appear. When your throat feels scratchy or fever is beginning to rise, immediate acupressure can prevent symptoms from worsening. When sudden high fever develops, pressing Shaoshang can quickly bring down the temperature. When nighttime cough disturbs your sleep, applying acupressure before bed can improve sleep quality. During emergency situations when someone faints or loses consciousness, vigorous Shaoshang pressure can help restore awareness. It is also beneficial to apply pressure regularly during seasonal transitions when respiratory conditions are common, as a preventive measure.

Precautions

Intensity control: The area around the nail is sensitive, so excessive pressure can damage tissue. Always maintain appropriate intensity. Infection prevention: Wash your hands thoroughly before applying acupressure and check that your nails are trimmed and your fingers are not injured. Limits of repeated pressure: Excessive repeated pressure on the same area can irritate the skin, so maintain appropriate intervals. Medical professional consultation: If symptoms persist or worsen for more than 3 days, definitely seek medical care. Shaoshang acupressure is a supplementary therapy and cannot replace professional medical treatment. Caution with certain conditions: If you have severe nosebleeds or lung disease, consult a specialist first. Pregnancy caution: During pregnancy, be especially careful and avoid applying strong pressure.

🤰 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 may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a Korean medicine practitioner or medical 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, please consult with a healthcare professional.
March 29, 2026
How to Relieve Sore Throat Naturally with These 5 Pressure Points

One-Line Summary: Stimulating five acupressure points can improve inflammation and qi-blood circulation issues that cause sore throat, providing rapid relief from neck pain.

Introduction

Do you experience a scratchy throat when you wake up in the morning, or pain when swallowing? Sore throat that strikes suddenly makes daily life uncomfortable. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, sore throat caused by colds or inflammation is viewed as a qi-blood circulation disorder and an inflammatory constitution. Fortunately, there are acupressure points that are easy to stimulate at home, providing quick relief from throat pain.

Five Effective Acupoints for Sore Throat

1. Hegu (合谷) — LI4

Location: The depression between the thumb and index finger on the back of the hand. Located at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone, this is the area where a crease forms when you bring your fingers together.

Benefits: Stimulates the Large Intestine meridian to strengthen immunity and promote qi-blood circulation throughout the body. It is excellent for relieving upper body pain such as colds, sore throat, headaches, and facial pain, and is very effective in reducing throat inflammation.

Pressure Technique: Use the thumb of the opposite hand to press the Hegu point deeply. Press firmly for 10-15 seconds and release, then repeat. Stimulating both hands 3-5 times daily is more effective.

2. Quchi (曲池) — LI11

Location: The outer end of the crease that forms on the inner side of the arm when the elbow is bent at 90 degrees. This is the correct location where the point becomes a depression when you press with your finger.

Benefits: A major point on the Large Intestine meridian with excellent heat-clearing effects, it rapidly removes heat sensation and inflammation from sore throat. It also helps with high fever, arm pain, and skin conditions.

Pressure Technique: Press Quchi with your thumb or index finger while massaging in circular motions. Apply pressure for 20-30 seconds at a time, 3 times daily. It is important to apply the same pressure to both arms.

3. Taixi (太溪) — KI3

Location: The depression between the inner ankle bone (medial malleolus) and the Achilles tendon. This is the hollow area on the inner side of the ankle, present on both sides.

Benefits: An important point on the Kidney meridian that supplements kidney yin, strengthening immunity and resistance. It is particularly effective for recurrent sore throat, chronic throat discomfort, and colds caused by low physical stamina.

Pressure Technique: Press the Taixi point vertically with your thumb. Start with light pressure initially and gradually increase the intensity. Stimulating each ankle for 10-15 seconds, twice daily, is ideal.

4. Lieque (列缺) — LU7

Location: Located about 1.5 cun (approximately 2cm) above the inner wrist crease. Find it by following the radial artery above the radial styloid process (the protruding bone of the wrist).

Benefits: Stimulates the Lung meridian to strengthen lung function and improve respiratory health. It is excellent for relieving symptoms of upper respiratory infections such as sore throat from colds, cough, and nasal congestion. It directly promotes qi-blood circulation in the throat.

Pressure Technique: Use the thumb of the opposite hand to press Lieque vertically while massaging. Press deeply for 5 seconds and release repeatedly. Stimulating three times daily—morning, midday, and evening—improves respiratory health.

5. Neiting (內庭) — ST44

Location: Between the second and third toes of the foot, approximately 0.5 cun upward from the webbing toward the base of the toes. It is easy to locate when you spread your toes apart.

Benefits: Stimulates the Stomach meridian to suppress inflammation and relieve pain. It is particularly effective at reducing heat sensation in the throat area and also improves digestive discomfort.

Pressure Technique: Press the Neiting point strongly with your thumb. Apply pressure for 10-15 seconds at a time, alternating between both feet. It is especially effective in the evening; 1-2 times daily is sufficient.

5-Minute Self-Care Routine

Don’t worry if you’re short on time. Following the routine below, you can expect relief from sore throat within 5 minutes. Perform this routine twice daily—once in the morning when you wake up and once in the evening before bed.

① Hegu Pressure: Stimulate Hegu on both hands for 30 seconds each (1 minute)
② Quchi Massage: Massage Quchi on both arms with circular motions for 30 seconds each (1 minute)
③ Lieque Stimulation: Press Lieque on both arms for 20 seconds each (40 seconds)
④ Taixi Pressure: Press Taixi on both feet for 20 seconds each (40 seconds)
⑤ Neiting Finish: Stimulate Neiting on both feet for 15 seconds each to finish (30 seconds)

Repeating this routine daily will noticeably improve sore throat symptoms within 3-4 days.

🤰 Pregnancy Caution: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or possibly pregnant, please consult with a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine or a healthcare professional before performing these techniques.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for health information purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, please consult a healthcare professional.

March 27, 2026
Yuji (LU10) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Accurate Location and Acupressure Technique
One-Line Summary: Fish Border (LU10) is an excellent acupoint for relieving throat pain and respiratory symptoms. Applying acupressure when you have a cold, cough, or sore throat can produce quick results.

What is Fish Border (LU10)?

Fish Border (魚際, LU10) is an important acupoint belonging to the Lung meridian (Hand Greater Yin Lung Meridian). Named after its resemblance to “the border of a fish’s fin,” it is located at the base of the thumb and is highly effective for improving various symptoms related to lung function. It is especially useful for managing respiratory conditions caused by modern stress and seasonal colds.

How to Find the Exact Location

Step 1: Open your hand with your thumb pointing upward. Step 2: Locate the first metacarpal bone of your thumb. You can find it by following the bone of the thumb on the back of your hand. Step 3: Find the midpoint of the first metacarpal bone, or the exact center of the bone. Step 4: It is located at the boundary where skin color changes from white to pink (the border between white and red flesh). It is in the hollow area where your finger and palm meet when your thumb is extended. Finding Tip: Using your opposite thumb to press and find the most tender point—that is Fish Border (LU10).

Acupressure Method

Basic Acupressure: Use the tip of your opposite thumb to apply pressure vertically with slight pain intensity. Press gently for 3–5 seconds and release. Repeat this 10 times and perform 3–5 times daily. Circular Massage Method: Using your thumb tip, massage in small circles. Perform 15–20 circles each in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Severe Symptom Acupressure: When coughing is severe or the throat is swollen, increase the pressure and continue for 5–10 minutes continuously. Warm Acupressure: The effect is even better with warm hands. It is recommended to warm the area first with a warm towel before applying pressure.

Main Benefits
- Sore Throat Relief: Fish Border (LU10) is excellent at rapidly relieving throat pain and swelling. It is very effective for acute pharyngitis or chronic throat discomfort.
- Cough Suppression: It is effective for both dry cough and cough with phlegm, and relieves throat fatigue caused by coughing.
- Fever and Cold Symptom Relief: It improves low-grade fever and chills from colds and helps boost immune function.
- Thumb Pain Relief: It improves pain, numbness, and joint pain in the thumb.
- Improved Lung Function: It normalizes lung function and helps manage respiratory disorders such as difficulty breathing and asthma.
When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

Optimal Time: Applying acupressure immediately when early cold symptoms appear can slow disease progression. It is especially effective for maintaining respiratory health when applied for 5 minutes after waking in the morning and before bed in the evening. Situation-Based Use: Apply acupressure immediately when it is difficult to swallow due to sore throat, when cough continues, when early cold symptoms appear, or when fever is present. Preventive Acupressure: Applying acupressure 3–4 times per week in advance during seasonal transitions or disease outbreaks helps prevent colds.

Precautions

Acupressure Intensity: Applying too much pressure can cause muscle damage, so maintain only a slightly painful level. Avoid the point if there are wounds on the skin. Contraindications: During pregnancy, it is best to reduce the pressure intensity or avoid it altogether. If there is a serious infection or high fever (39°C or higher), please seek medical consultation first. Complementary Therapy: You cannot expect complete recovery with Fish Border (LU10) acupressure alone; adequate hydration, rest, and maintaining a warm environment are also necessary. If symptoms persist for more than 3 days, please see a doctor. Individual Variation: The effect may vary depending on constitution and symptom severity.

🤰 Pregnant Women Caution: Some acupoints such as Spleen 6 (SP6), Large Intestine 4 (LI4), and Liver 3 (LR3) can 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 applying acupressure.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult with a healthcare professional.
March 26, 2026