LU1 Central Treasury

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

LU1 (Zhongfu, “Central Treasury”) is the Front-Mu of Lung point of the Lung Channel of Hand Taiyin Meridian. LU1 is situated in the first intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline, at the level of the first costal cartilage. It is located 1 cun inferior and slightly lateral to LU2. It disseminates and descends Lung Qi, resolves phlegm, stops cough and wheezing.

Location

LU1 is situated in the first intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline, at the level of the first costal cartilage. It is located 1 cun inferior and slightly lateral to LU2.

Needling

Oblique insertion medially or laterally 0.5-0.8 cun; caution for pneumothorax.

⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

TCM functions

Disseminates and descends Lung Qi, resolves phlegm, stops cough and wheezing.

Indications

Cough, asthma, chest pain, shoulder and back pain.

Front-Mu of LungMeeting point of LU & SP

Clinical notes

As the Front-Mu point of the Lung, LU1 is a primary point for direct access to Lung Qi, making it highly effective for all Lung disorders, especially those involving Qi stagnation or deficiency. It excels at regulating the descending and disseminating functions of the Lung, making it a go-to for cough, asthma, and chest oppression. Its meeting with the Spleen meridian highlights its role in addressing phlegm accumulation due to Spleen dysfunction. Clinically, it is often paired with BL13 (Feishu) to powerfully regulate Lung Qi.

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 is situated in the first intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline, at the level of the first costal cartilage. It is located 1 cun inferior and slightly lateral to LU2.

What is LU1 used for?

LU1 disseminates and descends Lung Qi, resolves phlegm, stops cough and wheezing. Common clinical indications include cough, asthma, chest pain, shoulder and back pain.

How is LU1 needled?

Oblique insertion medially or laterally 0.5-0.8 cun; caution for pneumothorax. Caution: ⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over 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.