LI4 (Hé Gǔ, “Joining Valley”) is the Yuan-source point of the Large Intestine Meridian. It is located on the dorsum of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones, approximately at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone on the radial side. It regulates Qi and blood, alleviates pain, expels wind, releases exterior.
On the dorsum of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones, approximately at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone on the radial side.
Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Regulates Qi and blood, alleviates pain, expels wind, releases exterior.
Headache, toothache, pain in the eye, sore throat, facial paralysis, febrile diseases, dysmenorrhea, delayed labor.
LI-4 is a powerhouse Yuan-source point and the command point for the face and mouth, making it one of the most frequently used acupuncture points. It excels at regulating Qi and blood, alleviating pain, expelling wind, and releasing the exterior, addressing a vast array of conditions from headaches and toothaches to common colds and menstrual pain. Its strong analgesic effect is well-known, and it is classically paired with LV-3 (Tài Chōng) as the 'Four Gates' to regulate Qi and blood throughout the body.
LI4 is one of 20 points on the Large Intestine Meridian. Nearby points:
LI4 (Hé Gǔ) is located on the dorsum of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones, approximately at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone on the radial side.
LI4 regulates Qi and blood, alleviates pain, expels wind, releases exterior. Common clinical indications include headache, toothache, pain in the eye, sore throat, facial paralysis, febrile diseases, dysmenorrhea, delayed labor.
Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Contraindicated in pregnancy. Caution: ⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk).
LI4 is a point on the Large Intestine Meridian (Shǒu Yángmíng Dàcháng Jīng).