Shangyang (LI-1)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Shangyang (LI-1). Learn its indications for sore throat, coma, toothache, and fever, plus powerful combinations with Hegu, Shaoshang, and Tanzhong for various conditions.
Indications
Chest stuffiness and oppression, swelling of the four limbs, coma due to stroke, sore throat, syncope/fainting, and fever without sweating.
Precise Location
Located on the Large Intestine meridian, on the radial side of the index finger, approximately 0.1 cun lateral to the corner of the fingernail.
Location Method
Lightly grasp the left index finger with the right hand, with the back of the left hand facing upward. Bend the right thumb and use the tip of the thumbnail to press vertically on the side closest to the thumb – that is the point.
Massage Method
① Massage: Firmly press and knead with the thumb tip. ② Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick once daily. Using the thumbnail tip, press and pinch the point vertically; a distinctive stinging sensation will occur. Apply to both left and right sides separately for 1–3 minutes each per day. Therapeutic actions: Clears heat and releases the exterior, revives the patient and opens the orifices.
Compatibility
Toothache: Combine with Jiache (ST-6), Dicang (ST-4), Hegu (LI-4), and Shangyang (LI-1). Disease overview: Tooth and gum redness, swelling, and pain – mainly caused by poor oral hygiene, overconsumption of rich/greasy foods, stomach heat flaring upward, invasion of wind-fire pathogens, or kidney yin deficiency with deficient fire ascending. Massage sequence: Sit upright or lie supine, lightly clench teeth. Bend the thumb and little finger while extending the three middle fingers, placing them on the cheek area. Press the middle finger pad on the masseter bulge (Jiache) for 3 minutes; then press Dicang at the corner of the mouth for 3 minutes; next gently knead Hegu for 5 minutes; finally pinch and knead Shangyang 30 times. Chest tightness: Combine with Tanzhong (RN-17). Heatstroke: Combine with Shaoshang (LU-11) and Zhongchong (PC-9). Sore throat: Combine with Hegu (LI-4), Shaoshang (LU-11), and Renying (ST-9).