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Large Intestine Meridian Large Intestine Meridian: Path, Key Points and Benefits in Acupuncture
The large intestine meridian is one of the 12 main meridians in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). As part of Yangming theory, this meridian is connected not only to the digestive system, but also to the skin, respiratory system and general well-being. In acupuncture, this meridian is essential for balancing energy flow and treating various disorders. In this article, we will explore in depth the path of the large intestine meridian, the most important points and how they are stimulated by acupuncture needles to improve health.
1. What is the Large Bowel Meridian?
The large intestine meridian is responsible for governing digestion, it is essential for regulating the digestive system and the elimination of toxins, helping to maintain the body’s energy balance and promoting better physical and emotional health. In traditional Chinese medicine, energy (Qi) is considered to flow through the meridians, so any imbalance in the large intestine can manifest in various areas of the body. This meridian starts at the hand, runs down the arm, through the neck and ends at the nose. Its stimulation by acupuncture is used to treat problems such as headaches, respiratory problems, allergies, constipation and dermatological problems.
2. Travel of the Large Intestine Meridian
The Large Intestine Meridian follows a key pathway in the human body, starting at the hand and ending at the head. Here I detail its pathway in a more visual way:
- Start: The meridian begins on the lateral side of the second finger of the hand (index finger), at point LI1 (Shangyang).
- Arm: Up the outer arm, passing through points such as:
- LI4 (Hegu): Located on the dorsal part of the hand, between the thumb and index finger. This is one of the most commonly used points in acupuncture.LI10 (Shousanli): Located in the middle part of the forearm, 2 fingers below the elbow.
- LI11 (Quchi): Located in the outer crease of the elbow.
- Shoulder and neck: The meridian continues to the shoulder, up the neck and into the facial area.
- Face: Ends at the LI20 (Yingxiang) point, located on both sides of the nose, in the nostrils.
This pathway reflects how the large intestine affects not only digestion, but also the respiratory system and the skin. Therefore, many acupuncture treatments on this meridian help to relieve nasal congestion, skin problems and other energy imbalances.
2. Main Points of the Large Intestine Meridian
Along the large intestine meridian, there are several key points that are stimulated with acupuncture needles. These are the most important ones:
- LI4 (Hegu): Located between the thumb and index finger, this point is famous for treating headaches, digestive problems, and cold symptoms. It is also known for its effects on pain relief.
- LI10 (Shousanli): Located about 2 fingers below the elbow, on the outside of the forearm. It is an excellent point for strengthening the immune system and improving energy flow.
- LI11 (Quchi): Located in the outer crease of the elbow, this point is used to treat arm pain, fever, skin problems, and balance the body’s energy.
- LI20 (Yingxiang): Next to the nostrils, this point is ideal for treating allergies, nasal congestion, sinusitis, and other respiratory conditions.
3. Functions of the Large Intestine Meridian in Acupuncture
In acupuncture, the large intestine meridian is used to treat a wide range of conditions, from digestive complaints to respiratory problems. The most prominent functions of the large intestine meridian include
- Improve digestion: By stimulating points such as LI4 and LI11, intestinal transit can be facilitated and constipation relieved.
- Pain relief: LI4 is especially effective in relieving headaches and other types of acute pain.
- Boosting the immune system: Stimulation of the LI10 point is known to improve the body’s resistance to infection and disease.
- Treatment of respiratory conditions: Spots such as LI20 are crucial for treating symptoms of allergies, rhinitis and nasal congestion.
4. Acupuncture Needle Treatments on the Large Bowel Meridian
Acupuncture needles are used in clinical practice to unblock stagnant or excessive energy in this meridian. By inserting needles into key points such as LI4, LI11, and LI20, acupuncturists seek to restore balance in the flow of energy (Qi), promoting health and well-being. For example:
- LI4 is famous for its ability to soothe pain and relieve stress.
- LI11 is useful for patients with inflammatory problems or dermatological conditions.
- LI20 is used to improve breathing and relieve nasal congestion, which is essential for patients with allergies or chronic sinusitis.
5. Benefits of Stimulating the Large Bowel Meridian
Stimulation of the large bowel meridian offers numerous benefits, such as:
- Improves digestive function: regulates intestinal transit and combats constipation.
- Pain relief: Excellent for headaches, migraines and dental pain.
- Immune booster: Strengthens the body against infections, especially in the cold and allergy season.
- Respiratory health: Helps to open the nasal passages, improving breathing and relieving allergic symptoms.
These benefits make the large intestine meridian key in acupuncture to maintain a harmonious energy flow in the body.
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