Welcome Fragrance
迎香 Yíng Xiāng · LI-20
About LI-20 Welcome Fragrance
LI-20 Yingxiang is the terminal point of the Large Intestine meridian, located at the junction where the channel crosses to meet the Stomach meridian at the side of the nose. Its name, 'Welcome Fragrance,' is beautifully descriptive -- by opening the nasal passages, this point restores the ability to welcome the fragrances of the world. It is the single most effective acupressure point for nasal congestion of any origin.
The Large Intestine meridian runs from the index finger up the arm, across the shoulder, and up the neck to the face, terminating beside the opposite nostril. This long trajectory explains why distant points like LI-4 on the hand can affect nasal symptoms, but LI-20's direct location at the nose gives it immediate, powerful local action. Pressing both Yingxiang points simultaneously while breathing deliberately can produce near-instant relief from sinus congestion.
In TCM theory, the nose is the sensory organ of the Lung, and the Large Intestine is the Lung's paired yang organ. This interior-exterior relationship explains why a yangming (Large Intestine/Stomach) point is the primary treatment for a Lung-related sensory organ. When wind-heat or wind-cold invades the Lung, the nose is often the first to suffer. Yingxiang expels these pathogens locally and restores the nose's function of filtering and warming inspired air.
How to Find This Point
Find the crease that runs from the side of your nose to the corner of your mouth (the laugh line). The point is where this crease meets the widest part of your nostril flare. Press into the groove beside the nostril.
Technique
Press inward with both index fingertips simultaneously, angling slightly toward the nose. Use small circular motions or sustained pressure. Pressing both sides at once is most effective for sinus relief.
Pressure & Duration
Moderate pressure for 1-2 minutes, both sides simultaneously.
Benefits
Opens the nasal passages, expels wind, clears heat from the face, restores the sense of smell, benefits the nose
Indications
Nasal congestion, sinusitis, rhinitis, loss of smell (anosmia), nosebleed, facial swelling, allergic rhinitis, snoring, nasal polyps
TCM Actions
Expels wind, clears heat, opens the nasal passages, terminal point of the Large Intestine meridian where it connects to the Stomach meridian
Self-Care Use
The go-to acupressure point for a stuffy nose. Press both sides of the nose simultaneously with your index fingers, right in the groove beside each nostril. Press firmly inward for 1-2 minutes while breathing through your mouth, then release and try breathing through the nose. Repeat as needed. Works remarkably fast for nasal congestion from colds or allergies.
Contraindications & Cautions
Use gentle pressure if there is active nosebleed. Avoid pressing into open sores or acne lesions in the nasolabial fold area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the LI-20 Welcome Fragrance acupressure point located?
LI-20 Welcome Fragrance (Yíng Xiāng) is located at: In the nasolabial groove, at the level of the midpoint of the lateral border of the ala nasi (the widest point of the nostril flare). Find the crease that runs from the side of your nose to the corner of your mouth (the laugh line). The point is where this crease meets the widest part of your nostril flare. Press into the groove bes
How long should I press LI-20 Welcome Fragrance?
Apply moderate pressure to LI-20 for 1-2 minutes, both sides simultaneously. Press inward with both index fingertips simultaneously, angling slightly toward the nose. Use small circular motions or sustained pressure. Pressing both sides at once is most effective for sinus reli
What are the benefits of stimulating LI-20 Welcome Fragrance?
Opens the nasal passages, expels wind, clears heat from the face, restores the sense of smell, benefits the nose
Is it safe to do acupressure on LI-20 at home?
The go-to acupressure point for a stuffy nose. Press both sides of the nose simultaneously with your index fingers, right in the groove beside each nostril. Press firmly inward for 1-2 minutes while b Cautions: Use gentle pressure if there is active nosebleed. Avoid pressing into open sores or acne lesions in the nasolabial fold area.
Which meridian does LI-20 belong to?
LI-20 Welcome Fragrance belongs to the Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian, which is associated with the Metal element. Its TCM actions include: Expels wind, clears heat, opens the nasal passages, terminal point of the Large Intestine meridian where it connects to the Stomach meridian