LU1 Zhongfu

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

LU1 (Zhongfu, “Zhongfu”) is the Front-Mu of the Lung point of the Lung Channel of Hand Taiyin Meridian. It is located on the upper chest, 1 cun inferior to Yunmen (LU2), in a depression between the first and second ribs, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline. The point is found in a palpable depression where a pulsation can be felt. It disseminates and descends Lung Qi, clears Lung heat, transforms phlegm, regulates the water passages, and calms the spirit.

Location

On the upper chest, 1 cun inferior to Yunmen (LU2), in a depression between the first and second ribs, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline. The point is found in a palpable depression where a pulsation can be felt.

Needling

Transverse-oblique insertion 0.5-1.0 cun laterally along the intercostal space. Avoid deep perpendicular insertion to prevent pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Disseminates and descends Lung Qi, clears Lung heat, transforms phlegm, regulates the water passages, and calms the spirit..

Indications

Abdominal distention, swelling of the four limbs, inability to eat, wheezing, chest fullness, shoulder and back pain, vomiting, cough with rebellious Qi, tight Lung channel, Lung cold and heat, chest agitation, gallbladder heat with vomiting, coughing turbid saliva, sweating from wind, skin pain, facial swelling, shortness of breath, inability to lie down, chest heat from Shang Han (cold damage), spirit possession disorders (flying corpse, hidden corpse), goiter, internal stasis of blood, evil wind and pathogenic Qi..

Front-Mu of the Lung

Clinical notes

As the Front-Mu point of the Lung, Zhongfu is a primary point for treating all disorders of the Lung organ, whether excess or deficient, hot or cold. It excels at descending rebellious Lung Qi, making it crucial for cough, wheezing, and chest fullness. Its location as the first point on the channel and its connection with the Spleen channel also make it effective for addressing phlegm accumulation and digestive issues that impact the respiratory system, such as poor appetite and abdominal bloating.

On the Lung Channel of Hand Taiyin channel

LU1 is one of 11 points on the Lung Channel of Hand Taiyin Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is LU1 located?

LU1 (Zhongfu) is located on the upper chest, 1 cun inferior to Yunmen (LU2), in a depression between the first and second ribs, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline. The point is found in a palpable depression where a pulsation can be felt.

What is LU1 used for?

LU1 disseminates and descends Lung Qi, clears Lung heat, transforms phlegm, regulates the water passages, and calms the spirit. Common clinical indications include abdominal distention, swelling of the four limbs, inability to eat, wheezing, chest fullness, shoulder and back pain, vomiting, cough with rebellious Qi, tight Lung channel, Lung cold and heat, chest agitation, gallbladder heat with vomiting, coughing turbid saliva, sweating from wind, skin pain, facial swelling, shortness of breath, inability to lie down, chest heat from Shang Han (cold damage), spirit possession disorders (flying corpse, hidden corpse), goiter, internal stasis of blood, evil wind and pathogenic Qi.

How is LU1 needled?

Transverse-oblique insertion 0.5-1.0 cun laterally along the intercostal space. Avoid deep perpendicular insertion to prevent pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall.

Which meridian is LU1 on?

LU1 is a point on the Lung Channel of Hand Taiyin Meridian (Shǒu Tàiyīn Fèijīng).

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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.