Which acupoint is most effective for treating rhinitis?

Generally, according to traditional Chinese medicine theory, patients with rhinitis can massage acupoints such as Yinchang (LI-20), Yintang (EX-HN-3), Hegu (LI-4), Fengchi (GB-20), and Dazhui (GV-14) to help relieve symptoms. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Yinchang (LI-20)

It is located on the face beside the nose, beside the midpoint of the lateral border of the ala nasi, in the nasolabial groove. Yinchang is an important acupoint for treating nasal diseases and has the function of clearing nasal passages and dispersing wind-heat. Regular massage of this acupoint can relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose caused by rhinitis.

2. Yintang (EX-HN-3)

It is located on the forehead at the midpoint between the two medial ends of the eyebrows. Yintang can be used to unblock nasal passages and relieve nasal congestion. Additionally, it has the effects of refreshing the mind and calming the nerves.

3. Hegu (LI-4)

It is located on the dorsum of the hand at the midpoint of the radial side of the second metacarpal bone, also known as the "虎口" (tiger's mouth). Hegu can relieve rhinitis and also treat toothache, sore throat, headache, fever, and other conditions. Massaging this acupoint can clear heat, relieve exterior syndromes, and dispel wind, thus alleviating symptoms such as nasal congestion and headache caused by rhinitis.

4. Fengchi (GB-20)

It is located in the posterior neck region, below the occipital bone, level with Fengfu (GV-16), in the depression between the upper portion of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the upper portion of the trapezius muscle. Massaging Fengchi can relieve symptoms such as headache and nasal congestion. When massaged together with Hegu, it can achieve better therapeutic effects for rhinitis.

5. Dazhui (GV-14)

It is located below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra on the midline of the back and belongs to the Du Meridian. Rubbing and pressing Dazhui has the effect of expelling wind and relieving exterior syndromes, which can improve nasal congestion caused by rhinitis.

When massaging these acupoints, you can use your fingers to gently rub them, applying enough pressure to produce a mild soreness or distending sensation. Each acupoint should be pressed for 3–5 minutes. However, acupoint massage is only an adjunctive treatment for rhinitis and cannot replace standard medical care. If rhinitis symptoms are severe or persist without improvement, please seek timely medical attention and undergo professional treatment under the guidance of a physician.