Exploring the Lung Meridian in Acupuncture

The lung meridian, a key component in the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, initiates the energy circulation within the human body. It consists of an internal and external pathway that influences respiratory health and the balance of Qi.

The internal pathway of the meridian begins in the middle heater, descends through the large intestine, ascends toward the stomach, passes through the diaphragm, and reaches the lungs. It then rises through the trachea, passes through the throat, and emerges toward the external pathway from the armpit.

The external pathway starts at the anterior surface of the shoulder, descends along the anterolateral border of the arm and forearm, passing through the center of the arm crease (lateral to the biceps brachii tendon). In the forearm, it descends to the styloid process and reaches the wrist, continues along the thenar eminence, and ends at the lateral angle of the thumb.

All Key Points of the Lung Meridian

The 3 Most Important Points for Using Acupuncture Needles

The lung meridian has several points on the body that can be stimulated with needles, including:

• LU1 (Zhongfu): Located at the upper chest, near the midline.
• LU7 (Lieque): Found in the forearm, near the wrist.
• LU9 (Taiyuan): Situated at the wrist, over the radial artery.

Clinical Applications: 10 Health and Wellness Benefits

Acupuncture, by stimulating points along the lung meridian, can help relieve respiratory symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and congestion. Additionally, it is used to promote emotional health, alleviating stress and anxiety associated with imbalances in this meridian.

To work with the lung meridian in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture needles are typically used to stimulate specific points along the meridian. These needles are inserted at key points to balance the Qi flow in the body and help restore health, according to TCM principles.

1. Improves Respiratory Function

Acupuncture on the lung meridian helps unblock stagnant energy in the lungs and airways, improving breathing and alleviating conditions such as:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Chronic cough
• Shortness of breath

2. Relieves Cold and Allergy Symptoms

This meridian is associated with the body’s defense against external pathogens. Stimulating it can:

• Reduce nasal congestion
• Alleviate cold and flu symptoms
• Strengthen the immune system against respiratory allergies

3. Emotional Balance

The lung meridian is linked to emotions of sadness and melancholy in traditional Chinese medicine. Treating it can:

• Relieve emotional stress and anxiety
• Promote a state of calm and well-being
• Help overcome feelings of depression and distress

4. Detoxification and Body Purification

The lung is a key organ in the elimination of toxins from the body. Acupuncture on this meridian can help:

• Improve the circulation of energy (Qi) and blood
• Promote the elimination of toxins through the respiratory system

5. Strengthens Vital Energy (Qi)

Acupuncture can restore the proper flow of Qi in the body, contributing to:

• Increased vitality and general energy
• Enhanced physical and mental endurance

6. Improves Skin Health

The lung meridian is connected to the skin, so treating it can:

• Improve skin appearance
• Relieve conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, or dry skin

7. Relaxation and General Well-being

Acupuncture on the lung meridian not only treats respiratory issues but also promotes a sense of overall relaxation and balance, helping to:

• Reduce muscle tension
• Improve sleep quality
• Enhance the general sense of well-being

8. Stimulates Energy Circulation Throughout the Body

By balancing the energy of the lung meridian, the circulation of Qi throughout the body is improved, which can have positive effects on:

• The digestive system
• Blood circulation
• Regulation of body heat and cold

9. Prevents Respiratory Diseases

Regular stimulation of the lung meridian points strengthens the lungs and the body’s defenses, helping to prevent:

• Frequent respiratory infections
• Chronic respiratory diseases

10. Boosts the Immune System

Acupuncture on the lung meridian also helps regulate the immune system, assisting in:

• Increasing the body’s ability to defend itself from infections
• Reducing susceptibility to external diseases

Conclusion: The lung meridian plays a fundamental role in the body’s energy circulation according to traditional Chinese medicine. Understanding its path and the associated points not only provides insight into respiratory health but also offers therapeutic tools to address a variety of physical and emotional conditions.

What Type of Needles Are Most Used in This Meridian?

• Standard acupuncture needles: These are the most common, fine and flexible needles inserted precisely at acupuncture points to restore energy flow. For the lung meridian, specific points on the arm and upper body are used.

• Filiform needles: These are very fine needles used to insert into the skin without causing significant pain. They are used to stimulate points along the meridian.

According to TCM theory, the lung meridian is crucial for regulating breathing, energy circulation, and the body’s defense against external diseases. Acupuncture helps unblock or balance this energy flow, especially when there are imbalances such as colds, coughing, or respiratory issues.

Other Complementary Therapies for the Lung Meridian

In addition to acupuncture, there are other therapies that can enhance the health of the lung meridian. These include:

• Moxibustion: The application of heat over specific points can help warm and activate the lung meridian, improving energy circulation.
• Breathing exercises: Techniques like deep breathing or Qi Gong practice can complement acupuncture work by strengthening vital energy (Qi) and improving lung function.

Final Considerations from Agupunt

At Agupunt, we believe that treating the lung meridian through acupuncture is not only effective for improving respiratory functions but also for balancing both the body and mind. It is a comprehensive therapeutic option that can help treat physical problems like cough and difficulty breathing, as well as emotional issues such as anxiety and stress, promoting overall well-being.

Acupuncture needles should be sterile and of good quality to avoid infections and ensure treatment effectiveness. It is recommended that a certified professional performs the sessions, as precise knowledge of the points and insertion techniques is required.