Acupoint Guide

Tag: ST12

  • Asthma and Excessive Tearing Acupoints: Complete Guide to 5 Acupoints for Strengthening Lung Function







    5 Acupoints to Simultaneously Relieve Asthma and Excessive Tearing: A Home Acupressure Guide

    One-Sentence Summary: Stimulating 5 acupoints that strengthen lung function for just 5 minutes daily can simultaneously improve breathing difficulty and excessive tear production.

    Why Asthma and Excessive Tearing Occur Together

    In traditional Chinese medicine, both asthma and excessive tearing are symptoms caused by weakened lung function. When lung qi (肺氣) is deficient, breathing becomes shallow, causing asthma, and at the same time, the eye’s lubrication function deteriorates, leading to excessive tear secretion. Since these two symptoms share the same root cause, stimulating acupoints that strengthen the lungs can improve both conditions together.

    What Are the Most Effective Acupoints?

    Immediate Effect (for acute breathing difficulty): LU5 (Chize), ST12 (Quepen)
    Fundamental Improvement (long-term treatment): GV14 (Dazhui), GV9 (Zhiyang)
    Emotional Stabilization: CV17 (Shanzhong)

    When breathing feels tight, first stimulate LU5 and ST12 for immediate relief. Consistently stimulating GV14 and GV9 for 3 weeks or longer can bring about fundamental lung function improvement.

    5 Best Acupoints for Asthma and Excessive Tearing

    Acupoint Location Key Effect Stimulation Intensity
    LU5 (Chize) Outer side of elbow crease Immediate relief of breathing difficulty Moderate to Strong
    ST12 (Quepen) Hollow area above clavicle Improves respiratory circulation Moderate
    GV14 (Dazhui) Between vertebrae below neck Strengthens immunity and lung function Light to Moderate
    GV9 (Zhiyang) Vertebrae below chest Fundamental improvement of chronic asthma Light
    CV17 (Shanzhong) Center of chest on nipple line Emotional stabilization and eye dryness relief Light

    1. LU5 (Chize) — Fastest Breath Relief

    How to Find the Location: When you bend your arm at 90 degrees, it’s at the outer end of the elbow crease (thumb side). When you press with your finger, you’ll feel a hollow space between the bone and tendon.

    Effect: As a key acupoint on the lung meridian, it relieves breathing difficulty within 5-10 minutes. If you’re experiencing an asthma attack or shortness of breath, this is the first acupoint to stimulate.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Bend your arm naturally.
    2. Use the opposite thumb to locate LU5.
    3. Apply pressure slowly for the first 3 seconds.
    4. Press firmly for 10 seconds, then release over 3 seconds.
    5. Repeat 10 times on one side, then do the same on the other side.

    Stimulation Frequency: Once in the morning and once in the evening; additional stimulation is possible when breathing difficulty occurs.

    2. ST12 (Quepen) — Improves Overall Respiratory Circulation

    How to Find the Location: Face forward and locate the hollow area above the clavicle (collarbone). It’s approximately 2-3 cm lateral to the center of the neck.

    Effect: Regulates lung and throat function while improving blood circulation throughout the respiratory system. It not only relieves breathing difficulty but also helps normalize tear production.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Tilt your head slightly backward.
    2. Use index and middle fingers of both hands to locate ST12 simultaneously.
    3. Press for 10 seconds while taking a deep breath in.
    4. Release pressure over 3 seconds while exhaling slowly.
    5. Repeat 8-10 times.

    Stimulation Frequency: 2-3 times daily, especially effective when breathing feels tight.

    3. GV14 (Dazhui) — Strengthens Lung Function and Immunity

    How to Find the Location: When you tilt your head slightly forward, the most prominent bone (the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra) appears. The acupoint is in the depression directly below it. When pressed, you’ll feel a clear hollow.

    Effect: In traditional Chinese medicine, this acupoint “governs all yang qi in the body” and strengthens immunity while fundamentally enhancing respiratory function. Consistent stimulation for 3 weeks or longer can reduce the frequency of asthma recurrence.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Sit in a comfortable position.
    2. Use one thumb to locate GV14.
    3. Apply pressure gradually over 5 seconds.
    4. Hold for 10 seconds.
    5. Release pressure slowly over 5 seconds.
    6. Repeat 10 times.

    Stimulation Frequency: 1-2 times daily, most effective in the evening.

    4. GV9 (Zhiyang) — Key to Chronic Asthma Improvement

    How to Find the Location: Lean your upper body forward so the vertebrae protrude. It’s in the depression below the 7th thoracic vertebra (7th thoracic spinous process). If it’s difficult to find alone, reach your hand behind your back and move downward to locate it.

    Effect: A key acupoint for strengthening lung qi and improving respiration. It addresses the root cause of chronic asthma—weakened lung function—while stabilizing the nervous system to regulate tear production.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Sit in a comfortable position.
    2. Get help from a family member or partner to locate GV9 (difficult to do alone).
    3. Press slowly using your thumb or massage stick.
    4. Hold for 10 seconds, then rest for 5 seconds.
    5. Repeat 10-15 times.
    6. When doing alone: Place a tennis ball against your back and use your body weight to stimulate the point—this is convenient.

    Stimulation Frequency: Once daily in the evening. The effect is good even with gentle stimulation.

    5. CV17 (Shanzhong) — Emotional Stabilization and Breath Calming

    How to Find the Location: It’s at the exact center of the chest, on the line connecting both nipples. When pressed, you’ll feel slight elasticity (just above the bone).

    Effect: An important acupoint that regulates heart and lung function, calming respiration and promoting emotional stability. It prevents asthma exacerbation caused by stress and relieves eye dryness.

    Correct Acupressure Method:

    1. Lie down and gently locate CV17 with your fingertip.
    2. Massage in circular motions without applying strong pressure.
    3. Press for 10 seconds while taking deep breaths.
    4. Rest for 5 seconds.
    5. Repeat 8-10 times.

    Stimulation Frequency: Once daily, most effective in the evening or before bedtime.

    5-Minute Daily Self-Care Routine — Implementation Plan

    To simultaneously improve asthma and excessive tearing, follow this routine for 5 minutes each in the morning and evening.

    Step 1. Emotional Calming (1 minute) — CV17 (Shanzhong)

    While lying down, gently stimulate CV17. This prevents asthma attacks caused by stress in advance and calms your breathing.

    Step 2. Respiratory Improvement (2 minutes) — LU5 (Chize) + ST12 (Quepen)

    While sitting, stimulate LU5 first with 10 repetitions on each arm. Once breathing eases, stimulate ST12 8-10 times. Stimulating these two acupoints together creates an immediate sense of easier breathing.

    Step 3. Lung Function Strengthening (2 minutes) — GV14 (Dazhui) + GV9 (Zhiyang)

    Sit with your back straight and stimulate GV14 10 times. Then, with a partner’s help, stimulate GV9 10-15 times. This phase is responsible for long-term lung function improvement.

    Time Required: 5 minutes morning + 5 minutes evening = 10 minutes total daily

    Additional Tips to Enhance Results

    Correct Stimulation Intensity: The ideal sensation is “painful but in a good way.” Too light won’t be effective, and too strong causes muscle tension.

    Duration: You need to practice consistently for at least 3 weeks to experience noticeable improvement. Since asthma is a chronic condition, it’s good to continue 3-4 times weekly after symptoms improve, as a preventive measure.

    Times to Avoid: Avoid stimulation within 30 minutes after eating or immediately after exhaustion. When blood is concentrated in the stomach or the body is fatigued, effectiveness decreases.

    Precautions: If you’re experiencing a severe asthma attack or have a high fever, acupressure alone is insufficient. Please seek medical professional consultation first. Acupressure is a supplementary treatment method.

    Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions

    Q. What if acupressure doesn’t work?

    Check the following:

    • Verify that you’ve located the acupoints correctly. Even slight deviations from the precise location significantly reduce effectiveness.
    • Make sure your stimulation intensity isn’t too weak. Press to the point where it’s “painful but feels good.”
    • Don’t expect fundamental improvement in less than 3 weeks. Judge results after 3-4 weeks of consistent practice.
    • Effects are faster when combined with medication therapy (asthma inhalers, etc.).

    Q. Is acupressure alone sufficient during an acute asthma attack?

    Acupressure helps relieve symptoms but cannot replace emergency treatment. If you experience severe breathing difficulty or chest pain, call emergency services (119) immediately. Stimulating LU5 and ST12 should only be used as a supplementary method to calm your breathing while en route to the hospital.

    Q. Can pregnant women do this?

    CV17 (Shanzhong), GV14 (Dazhui), and LU5 (Chize) are safe, but for abdominal and lower back acupoints (ST12 and GV9), please consult a specialist first. Stimulation should be gentle during pregnancy.

    Q. Which is better: acupressure tool vs. finger stimulation?

    Fingers are best because you can feel the subtle responses of the acupoint. Massage sticks or acupressure tools can be used as supplementary implements, and a tennis ball is useful for stimulating back acupoints like GV9.

    Q. How long do I need to continue?

    Timeline for improvement:

    • 1-2 weeks: Breathing feels slightly easier
    • 3-4 weeks: Frequency of asthma attacks decreases
    • 8 weeks or longer: Noticeable fundamental improvement

    We recommend continuing 3-4 times weekly after improvement as a preventive measure.

    Can Other Respiratory Symptoms Be Resolved with Traditional Chinese Medicine?

    Beyond asthma, most respiratory symptoms such as chronic cough, wheezing, and breathing difficulty are related to weakened lung function. The 5 acupoints in this post are fundamentally effective for all respiratory symptoms. For more detailed information, see Respiratory Symptom-Specific Acupoint Guide.

    Regarding eye health, in addition to excessive tearing, if you experience eye fatigue, dry eyes, or eye redness, please check 5 Acupoints for Eye Health. CV17 (Shanzhong) is a foundational acupoint for all these eye symptoms.

    Traditional Chinese medicine aims not to resolve a single symptom but to balance the entire body. Consistently stimulating these 5 acupoints improves not only breathing and eye health but also overall immunity.

    Conclusion: 3-Week Practice Plan

    Asthma and excessive tearing are not separate problems but different manifestations of weakened lung function. By stimulating 5 acupoints for just 5 minutes each in the morning and evening, you can experience noticeable improvement after 3 weeks.

    This Week’s Goal: Accurately locate the 5 acupoints and learn the correct stimulation method.

    Week 2 Goal: Follow the daily routine and observe your body’s responses.

    Week 3 Goal: Confirm improvements in breathing and reduced tearing. At this point, if you desire further improvement, seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for personalized treatment is also a good option.

    Start now. Your lungs are the doctor within your body.


    Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as SP6 (Sanyinjiao), LI4 (Hegu), and LR3 (Taichong) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or medical professional before proceeding.
    Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a medical professional.

  • Collarbone Point (ST12) Complete Guide: Exact Location and Acupressure Techniques for Cough and Asthma







    Key Summary: The Jueyin (ST12) acupoint is located approximately 3.5-4 cun (10-12cm) outward from the center line of the neck at the hollow area above the clavicle. It is used to relieve cough, asthma, sore throat, and remove neck nodules. Applying acupressure 2-3 times daily with 3-second repetitions is effective.

    What is the Jueyin (ST12) Acupoint?

    The Jueyin acupoint belongs to the Stomach Meridian of Foot-Yangming, and is known as a convergence point.

    In traditional Chinese medicine, the Jueyin is widely used for neck and upper chest symptoms. It is particularly effective when respiratory discomfort and muscle tightness around the neck are present simultaneously.

    Item Description
    Meridian Stomach Meridian of Foot-Yangming – related to digestion and upper body functions
    Functional Classification Convergence point – specialized in relieving respiratory symptoms
    Primary Indications Cough, asthma, sore throat, neck stiffness, shoulder tension

    Exact Location of the Jueyin

    The Jueyin is located approximately 3.5-4 cun (10-12cm) outward from the center line of the neck at the hollow area above the clavicle.

    More precisely, it is the point encountered when moving laterally from the depressed area above the clavicle (supraclavicular fossa). When you slightly lower your head and press with your finger, you should feel slight pain or soreness at this tender point.

    Finding the Jueyin in 3 Steps

    1. Locate the Clavicle: Lower your head slightly forward. You will see a hollow depression above the clavicle. This is the reference point you need to find.
    2. Measure Outward from the Center Line: From the center of the neck (midline), move outward about 3-4 finger widths (approximately 3.5-4 cun). The distance is the same on both sides.
    3. Confirm the Tender Point: When you gently press that point with your finger, you should feel slight pain or soreness. This is the exact Jueyin location.

    Initial Learning Tip: It can be difficult to find the exact location initially. During a visit to a clinic, having a practitioner mark the location or correct your finger position will make subsequent self-massage much more accurate.

    Effective Jueyin Acupressure Method

    The basic technique is 3-second press-breathing repetition, performed 2-3 times daily for 5-10 minutes each time.

    Step-by-Step Acupressure Technique

    1. Choose Your Finger: Use your thumb or middle finger. Press with the fingerprint area without the fingernail.
    2. Appropriate Pressure: Maintain a pressure level of “pleasantly sore” (known in medical terms as soreness and distension sensation). It is important to maintain consistent intensity rather than pressing too deeply.
    3. Acupressure with Breathing: Press for 3 seconds while slowly exhaling. While inhaling, maintain about 50% of the finger pressure, then press again while exhaling.
    4. Repetition Count: Repeat the above motion 5-10 times (approximately 1 minute). Perform this 2-3 times per day.

    Enhancing Effects with Warm Acupressure

    Performing the following before acupressure improves blood circulation for greater effectiveness:

    • Cover the neck area with a warm damp cloth (40-45°C) for 2-3 minutes
    • Or perform acupressure immediately after a warm shower
    • Or apply a heating pad to the neck area for 5 minutes before acupressure

    Real Experience: Warm acupressure is particularly effective when muscle tension is severe (office workers who sit for long periods, or those with stiff neck from stress). Warming a neck exposed to cold air results in less pain during acupressure and more noticeable relaxation effects.

    Jueyin Acupressure Effects by Symptom

    Symptom Mechanism of Action Expected Effect
    Cough Stimulates respiratory meridian to calm cough center Immediate relief
    Asthma Attack Relaxes respiratory muscles and relieves spasm Improvement within 15-30 minutes
    Sore Throat Relieves local inflammation and improves blood flow Reduced pain
    Neck Stiffness Relieves muscle tension around the cervical spine Restored flexibility
    Shoulder Tension Stimulates upper back muscle groups Tension relief

    Although the Jueyin belongs to the Stomach Meridian, it has widespread effects on the respiratory system and neck muscles. In traditional Chinese medicine, this is explained as a “meridian intersection point.”

    Related Information: Respiratory function is supported by multiple acupoints working together. Stimulating the Jueyin together with Hegu (LI4, between thumb and index finger on the back of hand) provides faster relief of respiratory symptoms. [Learn about Hegu Acupoint Acupressure Technique]

    When is Jueyin Acupressure Most Effective?

    Optimal Times

    • Within 30 minutes after waking in the morning: Promotes blood circulation around the neck before starting the day. Also good for cold prevention.
    • 30 minutes before bedtime: Relieves neck tension to promote better sleep and is effective in reducing nighttime cough.
    • Immediately when cough or sore throat occurs: Applying acupressure early before symptoms worsen enables faster relief.

    Effective Situations

    Situation Recommended Acupressure Frequency
    General neck stiffness 2 times daily (morning and evening)
    When experiencing cough or sore throat 3 times daily (morning, afternoon, evening)
    After prolonged desk work Every 2-3 hours for 2-3 minutes
    Neck stiffness from stress As needed anytime

    Precautions When Applying Jueyin Acupressure

    Contraindicated Situations (Cases to Avoid)

    • Acute pharyngitis accompanied by high fever: If fever is 40°C or above, consult a healthcare provider for medical diagnosis first. Stimulating the Jueyin may increase fever.
    • Severely swollen tonsils from tonsillitis: If swelling in the neck area is severe, acupressure may worsen the condition. Follow your doctor’s advice.
    • Open wounds or skin conditions on the neck: Avoid stimulation while wounds are healing.
    • Extreme fatigue or low blood sugar: Minimize stimulation when the body is in a very weak state.

    Pregnancy Precaution

    During Pregnancy: The Jueyin is generally a safe acupoint, but individual differences may exist. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, consult with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or obstetrician before applying acupressure. Special care is needed, particularly in the first trimester (within 12 weeks).

    Important Points During Acupressure

    • Avoid Excessive Force: “Pleasantly sore” is the appropriate level. Be careful not to press so hard that bruising occurs or severe pain appears on the skin.
    • Block Cold Air After Acupressure: Avoid exposure to cold air for 30 minutes after acupressure. If the body receives cold after blood circulation is promoted, adverse effects can occur.
    • Warm Beverage After Acupressure: Drinking warm ginger tea or jujube tea enhances the acupressure effects.
    • Avoid Excessive Frequency: Do not continue for more than 10 minutes at a time, or repeat more than 4 times per day.

    Signals That Medical Consultation is Needed

    Stop acupressure and consult a healthcare professional if:

    • Swelling in the neck area increases after acupressure
    • Severe pain persists for more than 24 hours
    • Cough or sore throat continues for more than 3 weeks
    • Shortness of breath worsens
    • High fever (38°C or above) is present

    Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for general health information purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, consult a healthcare professional (physician or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner). Jueyin acupressure is a complementary treatment method and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

    Expected Effects and Actual Sensations from Jueyin Acupressure

    Normal Sensations: During acupressure, you may feel a “pleasantly sore” sensation (increased venous blood flow), slight warmth, and a “relieved soreness” sensation around the neck area.

    Timeline for Effects: Acute cough often shows improvement within 5-10 minutes, while chronic neck stiffness typically requires consistent acupressure for 3-5 days before noticeable changes appear.

    Learn More: Stimulating other important acupoints around the neck simultaneously creates synergistic effects. Fengchi (GB20, the hollow area at the back of the neck) is excellent for relieving neck stiffness when used together with the Jueyin. [Fengchi Acupoint Location and Acupressure Technique]

    Integrated Approach for Better Respiratory Health

    While Jueyin acupressure is effective alone, it is more effective when combined with the following:

    • Stretching: Slowly pull neck to the side, interlace fingers behind neck and stretch backward (30 seconds × 3 times)
    • Warm Compress: Apply a warm heating pad to the neck area for 10 minutes every evening
    • Breathing Exercise: Strengthen the diaphragm through abdominal breathing
    • Humidity Control: Maintain indoor humidity at 50-60% to protect respiratory health
    • Adequate Hydration: Consume 1.5-2L per day to maintain mucous membrane health

    Poor posture in modern people (forward head posture, rounded shoulders) is a major cause of neck and respiratory discomfort. Maintaining correct posture together with Jueyin acupressure is the fundamental solution.


    Pregnancy Precaution: 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 Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before applying acupressure.
    Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for health information purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, consult a healthcare professional.