Union Valley
合谷 Hé Gǔ · LI-4
About LI-4 Union Valley
LI-4 Hegu is the most famous and frequently used acupressure point in the world, known as the 'Great Eliminator' for its ability to expel pathogenic influences from the body and relieve pain virtually anywhere. It is the yuan-source point of the Large Intestine meridian and one of the Four Command Points -- specifically commanding the face and mouth region. No other single point matches its breadth of clinical application.
The name 'Union Valley' describes the anatomical location between the two metacarpal bones, where the flesh mounds up like two mountains forming a valley. But the name also carries therapeutic meaning: this is a point of convergence where qi gathers in extraordinary concentration. The Large Intestine meridian has abundant qi and blood (as a yangming channel), and at Hegu this abundance is most accessible.
The point's supreme reputation for pain relief derives from its ability to move qi and blood powerfully through the channels. In TCM theory, pain results from stagnation -- where qi and blood cannot flow freely. Hegu breaks through stagnation with remarkable force, which is why pressing it can relieve headaches, dental pain, menstrual cramps, and musculoskeletal pain throughout the body. When combined with LR-3 Taichong (the yuan-source point of the Liver), the pair is called the 'Four Gates' -- together they open the flow of qi through the entire body, treating stagnation at the most fundamental level.
How to Find This Point
Squeeze your thumb against the base of your index finger -- the muscle bulges up. The point is at the highest point of that muscle bulge. Alternatively, place your opposite thumb between the bones of the thumb and index finger, pressing toward the index finger metacarpal bone. The point is tender when pressed correctly.
Technique
Press firmly with the opposite thumb, angling pressure toward the index finger metacarpal bone. Sustained pressure, circular motions, or rhythmic pressing and releasing all work well. This point often produces a strong, spreading ache.
Pressure & Duration
Firm pressure for 1-3 minutes per side.
Benefits
Releases the exterior, expels wind, clears heat, relieves pain throughout the body, regulates sweating, restores yang, benefits the face and head
Indications
Headache, toothache, sore throat, nasal congestion, facial pain or paralysis, eye redness, fever, common cold, constipation, delayed labor, pain anywhere in the body
TCM Actions
Releases the exterior, expels wind and cold, activates the channel, alleviates pain, restores the yang, regulates sweating, induces labor, yuan-source point of the Large Intestine meridian, one of the Four Command Points (for the face and mouth)
Self-Care Use
The most widely used acupressure point for pain relief. Press firmly between the thumb and index finger bones at the first sign of headache, toothache, or cold symptoms. This point is remarkably effective for sinus pressure and nasal congestion -- press firmly for 2-3 minutes per side and you will often feel the sinuses begin to open. DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY.
Contraindications & Cautions
STRICTLY CONTRAINDICATED DURING PREGNANCY -- this point has a strong downward-moving and labor-inducing action. Avoid in individuals with severe qi deficiency who are profusely sweating. Do not press excessively in those with bleeding disorders.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the LI-4 Union Valley acupressure point located?
LI-4 Union Valley (Hé Gǔ) is located at: On the dorsum of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones, at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone on its radial side, in the belly of the first dorsal interosseous muscle. Squeeze your thumb against the base of your index finger -- the muscle bulges up. The point is at the highest point of that muscle bulge. Alternatively, place your opposite thumb between the bones of
How long should I press LI-4 Union Valley?
Apply firm pressure to LI-4 for 1-3 minutes per side. Press firmly with the opposite thumb, angling pressure toward the index finger metacarpal bone. Sustained pressure, circular motions, or rhythmic pressing and releasing all work well. This point often
What are the benefits of stimulating LI-4 Union Valley?
Releases the exterior, expels wind, clears heat, relieves pain throughout the body, regulates sweating, restores yang, benefits the face and head
Is it safe to do acupressure on LI-4 at home?
The most widely used acupressure point for pain relief. Press firmly between the thumb and index finger bones at the first sign of headache, toothache, or cold symptoms. This point is remarkably effec Cautions: STRICTLY CONTRAINDICATED DURING PREGNANCY -- this point has a strong downward-moving and labor-inducing action. Avoid in individuals with severe qi de
Which meridian does LI-4 belong to?
LI-4 Union Valley belongs to the Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian, which is associated with the Metal element. Its TCM actions include: Releases the exterior, expels wind and cold, activates the channel, alleviates pain, restores the yang, regulates sweating, induces labor, yuan-source point of the Large Intestine meridian, one of the