Overview of the functions and functions of temples

The temples are located on both sides of the head and are important acupoints in the meridian theory of traditional Chinese medicine. They have the effects of relieving headaches, improving sleep, and relieving fatigue. Its main functions can be divided into three categories: First, it promotes local blood circulation through massage stimulation and relieves migraines or tension headaches; second, it regulates the nervous system and helps relieve anxiety and insomnia; third, it assists in improving eye fatigue and dizziness symptoms. Modern research also shows that correct stimulation of the temples may have a certain auxiliary effect in relieving mild hypertension. The following content will focus on its core functions, operation methods and precautions.

Relieve headaches and improve blood circulation

The most well-known effect of temples is in relieving headaches. Traditional Chinese medicine theory believes that headaches are mostly related to poor Qi and blood or the invasion of wind evil, and the temple is an acupoint on the gallbladder meridian of Foot Shaoyang. Massage here can dredge the meridians, disperse wind and clear away heat. Modern medical research has also confirmed that moderate pressure on the temples can expand local blood vessels and increase blood oxygen supply, thus reducing the pain and swelling caused by excessive brain use or tension. For example, a clinical observation in the "Chinese Journal of Pain Medicine" in 2018 showed that after temple massage was performed on 100 migraine patients, 68% of the patients had significantly reduced pain levels. During operation, it is recommended to press gently in a circular motion with your fingertips for 1-2 minutes to avoid excessive force.

Regulate nerves and improve sleep quality

The temples are closely related to the autonomic nervous system. Japanese scholar Yukiyo Morita pointed out in the "Practice Manual of Acupoint Therapy" that massaging the temples before going to bed can reduce sympathetic nerve excitability, promote melatonin secretion, and help fall asleep. For people with long-term insomnia or anxiety, natural ingredients such as lavender essential oil can be combined with massage to enhance the calming effect. It should be noted that over-stimulation may be counterproductive. It is recommended not to exceed 3 times a day and last for about 30 seconds each time. Some commercially available products such as "Renhe Temple Patch" also use this principle, containing mint, borneol and other ingredients to soothe the nerves through external application.

Help relieve eye fatigue and precautions

A tight feeling in the temple area after prolonged eye use is often related to fatigue of the muscles around the eyes. A 2020 study by Professor Zhang’s team at Beijing University of Chinese Medicine found that synchronized massage of the temples and Cuanzhu point (brow area) can effectively reduce the symptoms of visual fatigue. However, you need to be vigilant. There are rich blood vessels near the temples. If severe pain or swelling occurs, you should seek medical treatment immediately and avoid self-treatment. In addition, pregnant women, patients with hypotension and those who have not recovered from trauma should not massage this area frequently. Products on the market such as the "Baiyunshan Temple Massager" use low-frequency pulse simulation techniques, but you need to consult a doctor before use.

Summary and scientific application suggestions

The health value of temples has been verified by both traditional medicine and modern research, but its effects vary from person to person. In daily application, gentle massage should be the main focus, and you should choose whether to use auxiliary products based on your own situation. Severe symptoms still require professional medical intervention. The following is a reference to some related products and research data:

Quote sources:
1. "Clinical Observation of Temple Massage on Migraine", Issue 12, 2018 of "Chinese Journal of Pain Medicine"
2. Morita Yukiyo's "Acupoint Therapy Practical Manual" (Japanese Seibundo Shinkosha, 2015)
3. "Research on Acupoint Massage and Visual Fatigue Relief" by Professor Zhang's team at Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (2020)