What are the functions of the Yongquan acupoint?
Generally, as an important acupoint in traditional Chinese medicine meridian theory, the Yongquan point (KI1) has multiple functions, including regulating nerve function, promoting blood circulation, relieving headaches, regulating endocrine function, and improving digestion. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Regulating Nervous Function
Yongquan point serves as a key nerve reflex center. By massaging or stimulating this point, autonomic nervous function can be regulated, sleep quality improved, and symptoms such as insomnia and neurasthenia relieved. Additionally, it helps regulate the autonomic nervous system, dilate blood vessels, promote circulation, enhance metabolism, and aid in the elimination of toxins from the body.
2. Promoting Blood Circulations
Located on the sole of the foot, the Yongquan point, when stimulated through massage or acupuncture, can improve blood circulation in the feet, thereby alleviating symptoms such as cold hands and feet and varicose veins. Furthermore, it helps harmonize qi and blood, promote intestinal motility, and effectively relieve symptoms such as dysuria and constipation.
3. Relieving Headaches
Massaging the Yongquan point helps alleviate headaches, particularly those caused by colds or hypertension. This is because the Yongquan point has the effect of refreshing the mind and opening the orifices. Stimulating this point promotes local meridian circulation of qi and blood, thereby relieving headaches and improving mental clarity.
4. Regulating Endocrine Function
As the well point of the kidney meridian, the Yongquan point is closely related to the kidneys. Stimulating it can regulate endocrine function and relieve symptoms such as irregular menstruation and dysmenorrhea. Moreover, it helps nourish the kidneys, strengthen the body, alleviate symptoms caused by kidney deficiency such as soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, dizziness, and blurred vision. It is also significant for improving kidney function and enhancing sexual ability.
5. Promoting Digestion
Located on the sole of the foot and connected with the spleen and stomach meridians, stimulating the Yongquan point through massage or other methods can promote digestion and relieve symptoms such as stomach pain and indigestion. At the same time, it warms the body and alleviates discomfort caused by cold invasion.
When massaging or stimulating the Yongquan point, gentle techniques should be used to avoid excessive force, which could lead to conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Additionally, special populations, such as the elderly, the frail, or those with severe cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, should undergo massage or acupuncture at this point under the guidance of a qualified physician.