Oshtha
Oshtha · The Lip, Upper Lip Center
About Oshtha
Oshtha marma is located at the philtrum -- the vertical indentation between the nose and the center of the upper lip. This small but potent point has been recognized across medical traditions worldwide as an emergency revival point. In Western first aid it is known as a pressure point for fainting; in Chinese medicine it corresponds to GV-26 (Renzhong), one of the most important acupuncture points for restoring consciousness. The Sushruta Samhita notes the rich vascular and nerve supply to this region and its connection to both the respiratory and digestive pathways.
The philtrum's significance in Ayurveda extends beyond emergency use. It is a junction point between the prana vayu (governing inhalation and consciousness) and the bodhaka kapha (governing taste and the initial phase of digestion). Stimulating Oshtha activates both systems simultaneously, which is why a sharp stimulus here can revive someone who has fainted -- it simultaneously stimulates breathing and brings awareness back into the body. In regular therapeutic practice, gentle work at this point helps with dental and gum health, nasal breathing, emotional overwhelm, and the dissociative states that accompany severe Vata aggravation.
Therapeutic Applications
Fainting and loss of consciousness (emergency revival), emotional shock, dissociative states, dental and gum disorders, nasal breathing obstruction, upper lip tension, speech difficulties, hiccups, and acute emotional overwhelm
Technique
Place the tip of the index finger or thumbnail at the center of the philtrum. For emergency revival, apply firm upward pressure toward the nasal septum. For therapeutic use, apply moderate sustained pressure or small circular movements. For gum and dental health, combine with gentle pressure along the upper gum line through the lip. A tapping technique at this point can quickly shift emotional states.
Pressure
Moderate for therapeutic use; firm for emergency stimulation. The philtrum can receive direct, focused pressure. In emergency situations, enough pressure to cause mild discomfort is appropriate and necessary to trigger the revival response.
Duration
1-2 minutes for therapeutic massage. For emergency revival, 10-30 seconds of firm pressure. For dental and gum health, include as part of daily facial marma routine for 1 minute.
Oil Recommendation
A drop of Brahmi ghee applied to the philtrum supports clarity and grounding. For gum health, sesame oil with triphala (as used in kavala graha, oil pulling). Clove-infused sesame oil for dental pain radiating to the upper lip. Plain ghee for dry, cracked lips associated with Vata aggravation.
Contraindications & Cautions
Avoid if there is any sore, lesion, or active herpes simplex infection on the upper lip. Use caution in individuals with a recent history of facial or dental surgery. In emergency use, be aware that firm pressure here can cause pain -- use appropriate force only when necessary for revival.
Related Points
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Oshtha marma point located?
The Oshtha marma point (Oshtha, meaning "The Lip, Upper Lip Center") is located at at the center of the upper lip, at the philtrum (the vertical groove between the nose and the lip), over the orbicularis oris muscle. It is a Sira (vessel) type point in the head & neck region, with a size of 1/2 anguli (finger-width).
How do you stimulate the Oshtha marma point?
Place the tip of the index finger or thumbnail at the center of the philtrum. For emergency revival, apply firm upward pressure toward the nasal septum. For therapeutic use, apply moderate sustained pressure or small circular movements. For gum and d The recommended pressure is: moderate for therapeutic use; firm for emergency stimulation. the philtrum can receive direct, focused pressure. in emergency situations, enough press
What are the therapeutic benefits of Oshtha marma?
Oshtha marma therapy is used for: Fainting and loss of consciousness (emergency revival), emotional shock, dissociative states, dental and gum disorders, nasal breathing obstruction, upper lip tension, speech difficulties, hiccups, and acute emotional overwhelm. It is associated with the Svadhisthana (Sacral) and Vishuddha (Throat) chakra and the Water (Jala) element.
Which dosha is associated with Oshtha marma point?
Oshtha is primarily associated with Vata and Kapha. Its connected organ is mouth, gums, teeth, reproductive organs (via the governing vessel), and it relates to the Svadhisthana (Sacral) and Vishuddha (Throat) chakra. Stimulation of this point helps balance the associated dosha when done with appropriate oils and pressure.
What oils should I use on the Oshtha marma point?
A drop of Brahmi ghee applied to the philtrum supports clarity and grounding. For gum health, sesame oil with triphala (as used in kavala graha, oil pulling). Clove-infused sesame oil for dental pain radiating to the upper lip. Plain ghee for dry, cracked lips associated with Vata aggravation. Always choose oils suited to your constitution and current state of balance.
Marma Self-Care Guide
Self-massage techniques, pressure point diagrams, and oil recommendations for all 108 marma points.
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