LI20 Welcome Fragrance

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

LI20 (Yíng Xiāng, “Welcome Fragrance”) is the Meeting point of LI & ST point of the Large Intestine Meridian. Located approximately 0.5 cun lateral to the midpoint of the outer border of the nostril (ala nasi), in the nasolabial groove. Some classics place it 1 cun superior to Heliao (LI19). It opens the nasal passages, disperses wind, clears heat, and alleviates swelling and pain.

Location

Located approximately 0.5 cun lateral to the midpoint of the outer border of the nostril (ala nasi), in the nasolabial groove. Some classics place it 1 cun superior to Heliao (LI19).

Needling

Insert obliquely or subcutaneously, directed superiorly and medially towards the bridge of the nose, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Can also be needled transversely towards Bitong.

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TCM functions

Opens the nasal passages, disperses wind, clears heat, and alleviates swelling and pain..

Indications

Nasal congestion, inability to distinguish fragrances, nasal polyps, nosebleeds, clear nasal discharge, facial itching, facial swelling, facial paralysis, deviation of the mouth, wind-induced facial twitching like insects crawling, lip swelling and pain, toothache, red eyes..

Meeting point of LI & ST

Clinical notes

Yingxiang is the foremost local point for all nasal disorders, especially congestion and loss of smell. It is also a key point in protocols for facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia, and sinusitis. Its ability to treat facial itching and swelling from wind makes it useful for allergic rhinitis.

On the Large Intestine channel

LI20 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:

LI12LI13LI14LI15LI16LI17LI18LI19

Frequently asked questions

Where is LI20 located?

Located approximately 0.5 cun lateral to the midpoint of the outer border of the nostril (ala nasi), in the nasolabial groove. Some classics place it 1 cun superior to Heliao (LI19).

What is LI20 used for?

LI20 opens the nasal passages, disperses wind, clears heat, and alleviates swelling and pain. Common clinical indications include nasal congestion, inability to distinguish fragrances, nasal polyps, nosebleeds, clear nasal discharge, facial itching, facial swelling, facial paralysis, deviation of the mouth, wind-induced facial twitching like insects crawling, lip swelling and pain, toothache, red eyes.

How is LI20 needled?

Insert obliquely or subcutaneously, directed superiorly and medially towards the bridge of the nose, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Can also be needled transversely towards Bitong. Caution: The classics consistently state that moxibustion is contraindicated at this point. The Zhen Jiu Ju Ying notes that the area is near the eye and the eye fears fire.

Which meridian is LI20 on?

LI20 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.