Large Intestine Meridian
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LI-20
Exit Point
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
- Moxibustion contraindicated
Needle Depth
0.3–0.5 cun
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique), 10-15° (Transverse)
Body Area
Face — Nose, Face — Cheek
Location
In the nasolabrial groove, at the level of the midpoint of the lateral border of ala nasi.
Main Actions
- Expels Exterior Wind
- Removes obstructions from the Channel
- Opens the nose
Indications
Commentary
Yingxiang LI-20 is an important point and it can be indicated for any types of nose related disorders such as sneezing, loss of smell, stuffed nose or nasal polyps.
LI-20 is also able to expel Exterior Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat, if they lead to above symptoms. This Wind can cause other symptoms as well such as facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia and tic.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayijing (針灸甲乙經 - Systematic Classic of Acupuncture): "Treats nasal congestion with impaired breathing, stuffed nasal passages, deviation of the mouth with copious nasal discharge."
Zhenjiu Dacheng (針灸大成 - Great Compendium of Acupuncture): "Nasal obstruction, inability to smell fragrance or foul odors, deviation of the mouth, facial itching and swelling, sensation like insects crawling on the face, lip swelling and pain, labored breathing, nasal polyps, copious discharge, and nosebleeds."
Tongren Shuxue Zhenjiu Tujing (銅人腧穴針灸圖經): "Treats nasal polyps preventing the perception of fragrance and foul odors, nosebleeds, deviation of the mouth from Wind, facial itching and swelling, sensation as if worms are crawling."
Taiping Shenghui Fang (太平聖惠方): "Nasal breathing impaired, unable to smell fragrance or foul odors, deviated mouth from Wind, facial itching and swelling, Wind causing fluttering sensations like insects crawling."
How to Locate
The point is easier to be identified if the patients are asked to smile. First find the midpoint of the lateral border of the ala nasi and then follow it to the nasolabial groove.
Caution
Moxibustion is contraindicated according to classical texts (Tongren Shuxue Zhenjiu Tujing and Zhenjiu Yulongjing). The facial area near the nose has delicate skin and proximity to the facial artery and vein branches, as well as the infraorbital nerve. Use shallow insertion only (0.3-0.5 cun). When threading toward Sibai (ST-2), ensure proper technique to avoid facial vessels. The point lies over the piriform aperture (edge of nasal bone), so perpendicular deep needling should be avoided.
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique) / 10-15° (Transverse)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.3–0.5 cun
Needling Directions
0.3–0.5 cun vertically, obliquely or transversely in a medial and superior direction towards the extra point EX-HN-8 at the upper end of the nasolabial groove, at the transition between the nasal bone and the cartilage.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and soreness spreading through the nasal area. Patients often experience immediate relief of nasal congestion. Lacrimation (tearing of the eyes) is common during needling. When threaded toward Sibai (ST-2), the sensation may extend into the infraorbital region.
Moxibustion
Contraindicated
Duration: N/A - Moxibustion contraindicated at this point
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Questionable
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
Special Point Classifications
Exit Point
Command Point
Commands region:
Face & Mouth
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