Where to apply moxibustion for a cold
Nov 19, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Ziyi
Introduction
Generally speaking, the acupoints for moxibustion in treating the common cold should be selected according to the type of cold, which is categorized into wind-cold and wind-heat types. For wind-cold感冒, moxibustion can be applied to acupoints such as Fengchi (GB20), Dazhui (GV14), Fengfu (GV16), Hegu (LI4), and Yintang. For wind-heat感冒, acupoints such as Yanglingquan (GB34), Quchi (LI11), Taiyang, Zusanli (ST36), and Yingxiang (LI20) may be used. Note that these procedures should be performed under the guidance of a physician.
Generally speaking, the areas for moxibustion in treating colds should be determined according to the type of cold, which can be classified as wind-cold or wind-heat. For wind-cold感冒, acupoints such as Fengchi (GB20), Dazhui (GV14), Fengfu (GV16), Hegu (LI4), and Yintang may be used; for wind-heat感冒, acupoints such as Yanglingquan (GB34), Quchi (LI11), Taiyang (EX-HN5), Zusanli (ST36), and Yingxiang (LI20) are suitable. Note that these procedures should be performed under medical guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:
I. Wind-Cold Common Cold
1. Fengchi (GB20)
Located on the neck, approximately one finger-width below the lower edge of the first cervical vertebra.
Fengchi helps relieve headaches and neck discomfort caused by colds, promotes exterior-resolving and heat-clearing effects, and alleviates symptoms of wind-cold感冒.
2. Dazhui (GV14)
Located on the back, about two finger-widths below the lower edge of the seventh cervical vertebra.
Dazhui activates yang energy within the body and enhances immunity, helping the body resist cold viruses.
3. Fengfu (GV16)
Located on the neck, in the depression between the second and third cervical vertebrae.
Fengfu promotes blood circulation, relieves head congestion and headache, and aids in treating wind-cold感冒.
4. Hegu (LI4)
Located on the back of the hand, in the fleshy web between the thumb and index finger, at the highest point of the muscle when the thumb and index finger are brought together.
Moxibustion at Hegu has effects of clearing heat and resolving exterior patterns, relieving fever, sore throat, and cough associated with colds.
5. Yintang (EX-HN3)
Located at the midpoint of the forehead, between the eyebrows.
Yintang helps ease symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and nasal congestion, promoting physical relaxation.
II. Wind-Heat Common Cold
1. Yanglingquan (GB34)
Located on the outer side of the lower leg, three finger-widths below the knee cap.
Yanglingquan has functions of clearing heat, detoxifying, and resolving exterior conditions, effectively relieving fever, sore throat, and cough due to wind-heat感冒.
2. Quchi (LI11)
Located on the outer side of the arm, just below the elbow crease, two finger-widths down from the elbow tip.
Quchi clears heat and toxins, helping alleviate fever and sore throat caused by wind-heat感冒.
3. Taiyang (EX-HN5)
Located on the head, one finger-width lateral to the outer corner of the eyebrow, at the hairline margin.
Taiyang helps reduce fever and relieve headaches, making it suitable for symptoms of wind-heat感冒.
4. Zusanli (ST36)
Located on the lower leg, three finger-widths below the lower edge of the kneecap, one finger-width lateral to the anterior border of the tibia.
Zusanli is a general immune-enhancing acupoint that also increases physical strength and endurance, helping reduce discomfort from cold symptoms.
5. Yingxiang (LI20)
Located bilaterally beside the nostrils, approximately 0.5 to one finger-width lateral to the outer edge of the ala nasi, on the face.
Yingxiang is a classic head acupoint commonly used to relieve nasal congestion and sinusitis symptoms associated with upper respiratory infections.
It should be noted that if a patient's symptoms do not improve, drug treatment is recommended. For wind-cold感冒, medications such as Ganmao Qingre Granules or Fenghan Ganmao Granules may be taken as directed by a physician. For wind-heat感冒, Sangju Ganmao Pian or Xiashangju Granules are more appropriate.
