LI2 Èr Jiān

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

LI2 (Èr Jiān, “Èr Jiān”) is the Ying-Spring Point point of the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the radial side of the index finger, in the depression just distal to the metacarpophalangeal joint, found when the fist is loosely made. It clears heat, reduces swelling, alleviates pain, benefits the throat and teeth.

Location

On the radial side of the index finger, in the depression just distal to the metacarpophalangeal joint, found when the fist is loosely made.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion directed proximally, 0.3-0.5 cun.

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TCM functions

Clears heat, reduces swelling, alleviates pain, benefits the throat and teeth..

Indications

Toothache, especially lower toothache, throat obstruction, swollen jaw, shoulder and back pain, chills and fever, nosebleed, fright, yellow eyes, dry mouth, facial deviation, difficulty eating, somnolence, heat disease with no sweating, sudden shaking, shoulder pain, blue-green facial complexion, sore throat, water retention in cases of febrile disease..

Ying-Spring PointWater Point

Clinical notes

As the Ying-Spring and Water point of the Large Intestine channel, Erjian is excellent for clearing heat from the opposite end of the channel. It is a primary distal point for inflammatory conditions of the face, mouth, and throat, such as toothache, tonsillitis, and facial swelling. Its heat-clearing properties also make it useful for febrile diseases, especially when accompanied by a lack of sweating.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI2 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

LI1LI3LI4LI5LI6LI7LI8LI9

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI2 located?

LI2 (Èr Jiān) is located on the radial side of the index finger, in the depression just distal to the metacarpophalangeal joint, found when the fist is loosely made.

What is LI2 used for?

LI2 clears heat, reduces swelling, alleviates pain, benefits the throat and teeth. Common clinical indications include toothache, especially lower toothache, throat obstruction, swollen jaw, shoulder and back pain, chills and fever, nosebleed, fright, yellow eyes, dry mouth, facial deviation, difficulty eating, somnolence, heat disease with no sweating, sudden shaking, shoulder pain, blue-green facial complexion, sore throat, water retention in cases of febrile disease.

How is LI2 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion directed proximally, 0.3-0.5 cun. Caution: One source (Zi Sheng Jing) notes a conflict regarding moxibustion on a nearby point (Tianfu) and suggests caution with moxibustion unless for a severe condition. While not directly about Erjian, it reflects a general classical caution. Another source (Qian Jin Yao Fang) advises against needling or moxibustion on the Hand Yangming channel during the eighth month of pregnancy.

Which meridian is LI2 on?

LI2 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.