Overview of the efficacy and function of Shangyang point

Shangyang point is a well point on the large intestine meridian of Yangming in the hand, located 0.1 inch away from the nail corner on the radial side of the index finger. It has the effects of clearing away heat and relieving the surface, refreshing the brain, relieving sore throat, etc. Its main functions can be divided into three categories: first, for treating fever, such as fever, toothache, and pharyngitis; second, for first aid, such as stimulating awakening during stroke and coma; third, for improving local symptoms, such as numbness of fingers or constipation. The following content will focus on its core functions, clinical applications and precautions, with relevant data and citation sources attached.

1. The heat-clearing and surface-relieving effects of Shangyang point

As the starting point of the large intestine meridian, Shangyang point is good at clearing away heat from the Yangming meridian. Traditional Chinese medicine theory believes that stimulating this point can dissipate wind-heat and have a significant relief effect on headaches and fever caused by wind-heat colds. In clinical practice, it is often used in conjunction with Hegu point to enhance the antipyretic effect. For example, "Acupuncture and Moxibustion" records that it "treats fullness of Qi in the chest and inability to sweat due to fever." Modern research also shows that acupuncture at Shangyang points can regulate the body temperature center (source: "Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion"). In addition, for symptoms of excessive heat such as gum swelling and pain, tonsillitis, pricking and bleeding 1-2 drops can quickly relieve pain.

2. First aid and improvement of local symptoms

In first aid scenarios, Shangyang point is one of the "Ten Xuan points". When a stroke or syncope occurs, pinching this point with your fingernails can stimulate nerve reflexes and help restore consciousness. At the same time, this point can promote the movement of qi and blood in the large intestine, and has an auxiliary regulatory effect on constipation and indigestion. For example, research by Japanese scholar Akira Hirata pointed out that electroacupuncture at Shangyang points can enhance intestinal peristalsis (Source: "Journal of Oriental Medicine"). In daily health care, pressing with your thumb for 3-5 minutes can relieve finger stiffness caused by long-term use of the mouse.

3. Operation methods and precautions

Acupuncture, acupressure or moxibustion can be used to stimulate Shang Yang points. Acupuncture needs to be performed by a professional physician, and the depth is about 0.1-0.2 inches; for home health care, it is recommended to use fingernails or a round blunt pen cap to press to the extent of local soreness and swelling. Pay attention to pregnant women and those with physical weakness when using bloodletting method to avoid excessive stimulation. Some manufacturers such as "Huatuo Brand" produce acupuncture needles that can be used to operate this point. The specific products are as follows:

Summary and Quotes

Shangyang acupoint is an important acupoint with both therapeutic and health care value. Its heat-clearing, first-aid and collateral-clearing functions have been verified by both traditional medical books and modern research. When using it, you should choose the appropriate method according to the symptoms. Severe diseases need to be combined with other acupoints or medical methods. Cited sources: 1. "Acupuncture Dacheng" (Yang Jizhou of the Ming Dynasty); 2. "Chinese Acupuncture" (written by Jiao Huiyuan); 3. Hirata Akira's "Journal of Oriental Medicine" 2018.