5 Acupoints for Phlegm Relief — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

Introduction

Many of us have experienced the discomfort of phlegm getting stuck in the throat and the inconvenience of frequent coughing. Especially after a cold, phlegm can linger for weeks, becoming stressful. In traditional medicine, phlegm is called “Tan (痰)” and is believed to result from reduced lung function and humid conditions. Fortunately, acupressure on specific points is very effective at activating lung function and clearing the airway. The five acupressure points introduced in this article are the most widely recognized in both traditional medicine and modern acupuncture. You can apply pressure with just your hands and fingers anytime, anywhere, making it easy to practice at work or home without medication.

Five Acupressure Points Explained

1. Lieque (LU7) — Master Point of the Lung Meridian

WHO Code: LU7 | Chinese Name: 列缺
Location: On the inner forearm, along the line between the thumb and index finger above the wrist crease. It is located above the area where the thumb’s pulse is felt.
Application Method: Using your opposite thumb, press slowly for about 10 seconds with moderate pressure that produces slight discomfort, and repeat 3-5 times.
Effects: As the primary point of the lung meridian, it is most effective for directly treating phlegm and cough. It also excels at relieving nasal congestion, asthma, and cold symptoms.

2. Shaoshang (LU11) — Emergency Point for Reducing Lung Heat

WHO Code: LU11 | Chinese Name: 少商
Location: About 3mm from the outer corner of the thumb’s fingernail (toward the pinky finger side).
Application Method: Lightly stimulate by pressing with the opposite hand’s fingernail, or massage in circular motions with your fingertip. Stimulate 2-3 times daily, for about 30 seconds each time.
Effects: Reduces fever in the lungs and alleviates airway inflammation. Especially effective when phlegm is yellowish or pus-like, and quickly relieves acute cough and sore throat.

3. Shanzhong (CV17) — Center of Respiration and Qi

WHO Code: CV17 | Chinese Name: 膈俞
Location: At the center of the chest, on the midline of the sternum on the line connecting both nipples. Specifically, it is in the depression between the ribs as they descend from the neck.
Application Method: Using your finger joints, slowly massage in circular motions for 3-5 minutes. Maintain gentle pressure, not too deep.
Effects: A central point that regulates qi and blood of the lungs and heart. It quickly alleviates the sense of oppression caused by phlegm and difficulty breathing deeply, while normalizing respiratory function.

4. Zusanli (ST36) — Strengthen Both Immunity and Lung Function

WHO Code: ST36 | Chinese Name: 足三里
Location: On the outer side of the leg, four finger-widths below the depression below the knee. You can easily find it by following the outer edge of the tibia downward.
Application Method: Press firmly with your thumb for 10-15 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds and repeat. Practice 1-2 times daily, applying pressure to one leg for about 5 minutes.
Effects: The most famous acupressure point for activating the immune system. It improves the compromised immunity that underlies phlegm and promotes cold prevention and recovery. It also improves digestive function.

5. Fengfu (GV16) — Point That Aids Qi and Blood Circulation in the Neck and Head

WHO Code: GV16 | Chinese Name: 風府
Location: At the center of the back of the neck, in the depression below the cervical vertebra at the back of the head. You can find it by following the line behind the ear down the neck.
Application Method: Using the tips of both hands’ fingers, lightly massage in circular motions for 3-5 minutes. Proceed slowly until the neck muscles relax.
Effects: Relieves neck stiffness and improves qi and blood circulation around the airway. Quickly alleviates the sensation of oppression caused by phlegm and treats sore throat and pharyngitis.

5-Minute Self-Acupressure Routine

Just 5 minutes of investment during a busy morning or evening is enough. Follow this sequence:

1. Lieque (LU7) — 1 minute
   Apply pressure to both wrists with your thumb, 30 seconds each. This is the first step in opening the door to lung function.
2. Shaoshang (LU11) — 30 seconds
   Gently stimulate both thumbs at the edge of the fingernail. This quickly reduces the heat of phlegm.
3. Shanzhong (CV17) — 1 minute
   Massage the center of your chest in circular motions using your finger joints. Do this while being conscious of deep breathing.
4. Zusanli (ST36) — 1 minute 30 seconds
   Apply pressure below both knees, 45 seconds each. You can do this comfortably while sitting.
5. Fengfu (GV16) — 1 minute
   Gently massage the back of your neck to finish. At this point, you should feel your breathing has become much easier.

Tip: If you apply pressure at the same time each day in the same sequence, your body will recognize the pattern and respond more quickly. Evening before bedtime is ideal.