LI19 Kǒu Hé Liáo

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

LI19 (Kǒu Hé Liáo, “Kǒu Hé Liáo”) is an acupuncture point on the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the face, lateral to the philtrum, directly below the nostril, at the level of the upper lip. It the provided modern research does not explicitly state the functions of LI19.

Location

On the face, lateral to the philtrum, directly below the nostril, at the level of the upper lip.

Needling

Modern needling techniques for LI19 include oblique insertion towards the tip of the nose, with a depth of 5 to 8 units. Needles are typically retained for 30 minutes after obtaining deqi. Thread embedding acupuncture also utilizes LI19, with 29G x 25 mm or 29G x 38 mm needles used for embedding threads. Sensations sought during thread embedding include soreness, distension, or heaviness, which tend to be more pronounced than with traditional acupuncture.

TCM functions

The provided modern research does not explicitly state the functions of LI19..

Indications

Modern research indicates LI19 is used in the treatment of facial paralysis and postherpetic neuralgia affecting the face. It is also used as an adjunct point in studies related to sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation..

Clinical notes

Due to the absence of classical excerpts, the specific clinical applications and needling instructions for LI19 are not detailed in this classical compilation.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI19 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI19 located?

LI19 (Kǒu Hé Liáo) is located on the face, lateral to the philtrum, directly below the nostril, at the level of the upper lip.

What is LI19 used for?

LI19 the provided modern research does not explicitly state the functions of LI19. Common clinical indications include modern research indicates LI19 is used in the treatment of facial paralysis and postherpetic neuralgia affecting the face. It is also used as an adjunct point in studies related to sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation.

How is LI19 needled?

Modern needling techniques for LI19 include oblique insertion towards the tip of the nose, with a depth of 5 to 8 units. Needles are typically retained for 30 minutes after obtaining deqi. Thread embedding acupuncture also utilizes LI19, with 29G x 25 mm or 29G x 38 mm needles used for embedding threads. Sensations sought during thread embedding include soreness, distension, or heaviness, which tend to be more pronounced than with traditional acupuncture.

Which meridian is LI19 on?

LI19 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.