LI1 Shangyang translates to 'Metal Yang'

Reviewed by · Licensed Acupuncturist & TCM Physician · Last reviewed June 2026

LI1 (Shangyang, “Shangyang translates to 'Metal Yang'”) is the Jing-Well Point point of the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the radial side of the index finger, approximately 0.1 cun from the corner of the nail bed. It clears heat, revives consciousness, reduces swelling, and alleviates pain, particularly along the channel and in the sensory orifices.

Location

On the radial side of the index finger, approximately 0.1 cun from the corner of the nail bed.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.1-0.2 cun, or pricked to bleed. The point is very sensitive.

TCM functions

Clears heat, revives consciousness, reduces swelling, and alleviates pain, particularly along the channel and in the sensory orifices..

Indications

Chest fullness, cough, wheezing, swelling with distention, heat disease without sweating, tinnitus, deafness, malaria with mouth dryness, jaw and chin swelling, toothache with aversion to cold, shoulder and back tension, pain in the supraclavicular fossa, blue-green blindness , mouth and tongue dryness, inability to eat or drink, sore throat..

Jing-Well PointMetal Point

Clinical notes

As the Jing-Well point of the Large Intestine channel, Shangyang is a primary point for expelling acute pathogenic factors, especially heat, from the opposite end of the channel. It is classically indicated for high fever, sore throat, toothache, and reviving consciousness. Its ability to clear heat and reduce swelling makes it effective for acute, painful conditions of the head and face. Pricking to bleed is a common and effective method for these excess conditions.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI1 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI1 located?

LI1 (Shangyang) is located on the radial side of the index finger, approximately 0.1 cun from the corner of the nail bed.

What is LI1 used for?

LI1 clears heat, revives consciousness, reduces swelling, and alleviates pain, particularly along the channel and in the sensory orifices. Common clinical indications include chest fullness, cough, wheezing, swelling with distention, heat disease without sweating, tinnitus, deafness, malaria with mouth dryness, jaw and chin swelling, toothache with aversion to cold, shoulder and back tension, pain in the supraclavicular fossa, blue-green blindness , mouth and tongue dryness, inability to eat or drink, sore throat.

How is LI1 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.1-0.2 cun, or pricked to bleed. The point is very sensitive.

Which meridian is LI1 on?

LI1 is a point on the Large Intestine Meridian (Shǒu Yángmíng Dàcháng Jīng).

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⚠️ This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Acupuncture is a traditional practice; evidence varies by condition and study quality, and individual results differ. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Always consult a qualified acupuncturist or physician.