LI4 · Large Intestine meridian
Hegu 合谷 · Hégǔ
Arms & hands
The timed session needs a free sign-in.
Standard location
On the back of the hand, between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, beside the middle of the 2nd metacarpal.
How to find it
- 1Press your thumb against your index finger — the top of the muscle bulge is the spot.
- 2Relax the hand and press near the middle of the index-finger bone; it feels achy.
Technique
With the other thumb, press towards the index-finger bone in small circles for 1–2 minutes, then switch hands.
Traditionally used for
- Headache, toothache and other head or face discomfort
- Early cold symptoms and a blocked nose
Cautions
- Traditionally avoided during pregnancy.
- Aim for a mild, dull ache — it should never hurt.
Used in these routines
General wellness education — not a substitute for a doctor or registered Chinese medicine practitioner.