Large Intestine Channel

Yingxiang LI-20

Chinese: 迎香

Pinyin: Yíng Xiāng

Location

In the nasolabrial groove, at the level of the midpoint of the lateral border of ala nasi. 

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. 

Main actions

  1. Expels Exterior Wind
  2. Removes obstructions from the Channel
  3. Opens the nose

Indications

Fever Sneezing Red eyes Sore nose Epistaxis Sinusitis Runny nose Facial tic Blocked nose Nasal polyps Face itching Bloody stools Eye deviation Mouth deviation Aversion to cold Facial paralysis Allergic rhinitis Swelling of the face Trigeminal neuralgia Loss of sense of smell

Needling

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.  

Commentary for Yingxiang LI-20

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.