Large Intestine 4 is the number one go-to point for ANY condition related the head, neck and face. Whether you have a headache, a toothache, nasal congestion, Bell’s Palsy, pink eye, an ear ache, a sore throat, or vision problem–you should include Large Intestine 4 to your treatment plan.
Not only is this point great for conditions of the head, it is also an important point for boosting the immune system, regulating digestive function, and treating pain anywhere in the body.
Most people think this point is right in the center pf the fleshy triangular area between the thumb and forefinger, but the actual location is right next to the second metacarpal bone (on the side wall of the triangle).
Acupuncture Point: Large Intestine 4 (LI 4, LI4) Chinese Name: He Gu English Name: Union Valley Location: Between the 1st and 2nd metacarpals, on the radial aspect of the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone, at the highest spot of the muscle when the thumb and index fingers are brought close together. Attributes: Yuan-Source point of the Large Intestine channel. Gao Wu Command point. Ma Dan-yang Heavenly Star point. Entry point. Command point for the face and mouth.
TCM Actions: Frees the channels and quickens the connecting vessels; courses wind and resolves the exterior; clears and discharges lung heat; frees gastrointestinal downbearing; relieves pain and quiets the spirit. Indications: Headache; painful swelling and reddening of the eyes; nosebleed; swelling of the face; sore, swollen throat; hypertonicity of the fingers; pain in the arm; wryness of the eyes and mouth; sweating or absence of it in heat diseases; menstrual block; prolonged labor; dysentery. Secondary Indications: Wind stroke trismus; malaria with fever and chills; mania; loss of voice; wind papules; cardiac pain; unilateral or ambilateral headache; great thirst, fever and aversion to cold in cold damage; headache and rigid spine; tonsillitis. Needle Information: Perpendicular insertion. 5 – 1.0 cun. Moxibustion is applicable, except in pregnancy. Cautions: Do not needle during pregnancy.
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Adrian P. Larsen, D.C., F.A.S.A., C.Ac.
Dr. Larsen is President of Miridia Technology Inc., and one of the developers of the AcuGraph Digital Meridian Imaging system. He currently divides his time between research, product development, and teaching.
Dr. Larsen also holds certifications in Applied Kinesiology and CPK, and has specialized training in SOT and craniopathy.
He, his wife, and 7 children reside in Meridian, Idaho.
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3 Replies to “Acupuncture Point: Large Intestine 4”
Should have shown the nerves going through this area so location can be more easily traceable
Thank you for the suggestion. Our illustrations focus on the landmarks used to find the points, rather than the complete anatomy in the area. It keeps things simple and easier to visualize. But I agree, a good acupuncturist will know the underlying anatomy as well.
Should have shown the nerves going through this area so location can be more easily traceable
Thank you for the suggestion. Our illustrations focus on the landmarks used to find the points, rather than the complete anatomy in the area. It keeps things simple and easier to visualize. But I agree, a good acupuncturist will know the underlying anatomy as well.