Redness Of The Inner Corner Of The Eyeaccording to TCM

What is Redness of the Inner Corner of the Eye?

Redness of the inner corner of the eye, commonly known as inflammation at the medial canthus or inner canthus redness, is a condition where the inner corner of the eye becomes reddened and may swell.

It can indicate various underlying issues, such as infections, allergies, or irritation. This symptom can also be accompanied by itching, tearing, or discomfort. Identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment, as it can range from benign irritations to more serious ocular conditions.

How does TCM view Redness of the Inner Corner of the Eye?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), redness of the inner corner of the eye is viewed as a sign of internal imbalance. TCM practitioners often attribute this symptom to disturbances in the body's Qi (vital energy), Blood, and Yin-Yang harmony.

These imbalances could be linked to the liver, kidney, or lung meridians. The approach in TCM is holistic, focusing on identifying and treating the underlying disharmonies to alleviate the symptoms and restore overall wellness.

Acupoints for Redness Of The Inner Corner Of The Eye

TCM utilizes specific acupoints for the treatment of redness in the inner corner of the eye, based on the underlying patterns of disharmony. In the Kidney Channel, points such as Dahe KID-12, located 4 cun below the umbilicus, is known for tonifying Kidney Yin and regulating the uterus and menstruation.

Futonggu KID-20, 5 cun above the umbilicus, regulates the Middle Burner and transforms phlegm, while Qixue KID-13, 3 cun below the umbilicus, invigorates Qi and blood in the Lower Burner and tonifies the kidneys. Shangqu KID-17, 2 cun above the umbilicus, is used for regulating the Large Intestine and dissolving accumulations. In the Bladder Channel, Jinggu BL-64 and Shugu BL-65, located on the lateral side of the foot dorsum, are effective in subduing Rebellious Qi and clearing heat.

Jingming BL-1, near the inner canthus, is beneficial for expelling wind and clearing heat from the eyes. These acupoints are selected for their effectiveness in addressing the key patterns associated with inner canthus redness, and their stimulation can help alleviate discomfort and restore internal balance.

Explore below some acupoints used to address redness of the inner corner of the eye, organized by meridian.

Dahe KID-12

4 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Qixue KID-13

3 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Zhongzhu KID-15

1 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shangqu KID-17

2 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shiguan KID-18

3 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Yindu KID-19

4 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Futonggu KID-20

5 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Jingming BL-1

0.1 cun superior and medial to the inner canthus.

Jinggu BL-64

On the lateral side of the foot dorsum, below the tuberosity of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.

Shugu BL-65

On the lateral side of the foot dorsum, proximal to the head of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.