LI17 Celestial Countenance

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

LI17 (Tiān Róng, “Celestial Countenance”) is the Window of the Sky point of the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the lateral aspect of the neck, posterior to the angle of the mandible, in the depression between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the anterior border of the trapezius muscle. It benefits throat and neck, dissipates nodules.

Location

On the lateral aspect of the neck, posterior to the angle of the mandible, in the depression between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the anterior border of the trapezius muscle.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: avoid the carotid artery and jugular vein.

⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the carotid artery).

TCM functions

Benefits throat and neck, dissipates nodules.

Indications

Sore throat, sudden hoarseness, scrofula, goiter.

Window of the Sky

Clinical notes

As a Window of the Sky point, LI17 is significant for connecting the Qi of the body with the head, making it effective for disorders of the throat, neck, and head. It is particularly known for benefiting the throat, alleviating pain, and dissipating nodules in the neck, such as goiter or scrofula. It helps to regulate the ascending and descending of Qi in the neck and head, addressing issues like sudden hoarseness or difficulty swallowing. It is often used with other Window of the Sky points for sensory organ disorders.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI17 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI17 located?

LI17 (Tiān Róng) is located on the lateral aspect of the neck, posterior to the angle of the mandible, in the depression between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the anterior border of the trapezius muscle.

What is LI17 used for?

LI17 benefits throat and neck, dissipates nodules. Common clinical indications include sore throat, sudden hoarseness, scrofula, goiter.

How is LI17 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: avoid the carotid artery and jugular vein. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the carotid artery).

Which meridian is LI17 on?

LI17 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.