Where to Massage for Cough Relief
Jan 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
When experiencing coughing, acupressure on points such as Tian Tu (CV 22), Dan Zhong (CV 4), Fei Shu (BL 13), He Gu (LI 4), and Lie Que (LU 7) may be performed to provide relief. These acupoints have functions of clearing heat, resolving phlegm, regulating qi to relieve pain, and promoting the production of body fluids to alleviate thirst. Additionally, they can be used in the treatment of lung disorders and to relieve symptoms such as coughing, phlegm production, and shortness of breath caused by excess heat in the lungs. However, it is recommended to consult a physician before performing acupressure to avoid self-treatment without professional guidance.
Generally, for relieving cough, acupressure can be applied on points such as Tian Tu (CV 22), Dan Zhong (CV 4), Fei Shu (BL 13), He Gu (LI 4), and Lie Que (LU 7). If discomfort persists, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Tian Tu Point (CV 22)
The Tian Tu point is mainly located on the anterior midline of the neck, at the center of the suprasternal notch. Massaging this point helps clear heat and toxins, regulate qi, resolve phlegm, and soothe the throat to relieve coughing. It aids in reducing lung heat and alleviating cough severity and is commonly used to treat diseases such as tonsillitis and pharyngitis.
2. Dan Zhong Point (CV 4)
The Dan Zhong point is mainly located on the midline of the chest, at the intersection point of the连线 of the nipples and the sternum midline. Massaging this point helps regulate qi to relieve pain and stimulate body fluid production to relieve thirst. It helps alleviate symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing, and asthma caused by diseases like bronchitis and pneumonia.
3. Fei Shu Point (BL 13)
The Fei Shu point is mainly located in the depression below the spinous process of the third thoracic vertebra on the back. Massaging this point can be used to treat discomfort caused by lung diseases, such as cough, sputum production, rapid breathing, and difficulty breathing.
4. He Gu Point (LI 4)
The He Gu point is mainly located between the first and second metacarpal bones on the back of the hand. Massaging this point helps clear heat, benefit the throat, relieve cough, and alleviate asthma. It is commonly used to treat chronic cough caused by various factors, such as lung heat cough and whooping cough.
5. Lie Que Point (LU 7)
The Lie Que point is mainly located at the point where the虎口 (webbing between the thumb and index finger) cross. Massaging this point also has the effect of relieving cough. It is commonly used to treat cough caused by lung heat and alleviate symptoms such as excessive phlegm, thick phlegm, and yellow sputum caused by lung heat.
It should be noted that no matter which area is massaged, it should be done under the guidance of a doctor to avoid self-treatment. Additionally, after massage, regular observation is necessary. If the condition worsens or other discomfort occurs, it is recommended to stop the massage promptly.
