Cubit Marsh
尺泽 Chǐ Zé · LU-5
About LU-5 Cubit Marsh
LU-5 Chize is the he-sea point of the Lung meridian, the point where the meridian's qi pools deeply like water gathering in a marsh. As a Water point on a Metal meridian (Water is the child of Metal in the five-element cycle), Chize has a powerful draining and cooling function. It is the primary point for clearing excess heat from the Lung, making it indispensable in treating acute respiratory infections with fever, yellow phlegm, and inflamed throat.
The he-sea points are where meridian qi is at its deepest and most interior-connected, meaning Chize has a strong influence on the Lung organ itself rather than just the superficial channel pathway. This depth of action explains its effectiveness in treating not only respiratory symptoms but also conditions related to the Lung's role in regulating Water metabolism. The Lung governs the upper source of water in TCM, and dysfunction at this level can produce urinary problems, edema, and disordered sweating -- all of which Chize can address.
The name 'Cubit Marsh' evokes the image of water collecting in a low-lying area, a direct reference to the point's location in the elbow crease where qi and fluids naturally gather. Clinically, the point is also valued for its ability to relax the sinews of the arm, treating tennis elbow, forearm tightness, and tremors of the upper limb.
How to Find This Point
Slightly bend the elbow. Find the thick tendon in the center of the elbow crease (biceps tendon). The point is in the depression just to the thumb side of this tendon.
Technique
Press firmly with the thumb into the depression beside the tendon. Use steady sustained pressure or small circular movements. The point often produces a strong aching sensation when active.
Pressure & Duration
Moderate to firm pressure for 1-2 minutes per side.
Benefits
Clears Lung heat, descends rebellious qi, relaxes the sinews, benefits the Bladder, opens the Water Passages
Indications
Cough with thick yellow phlegm, sore throat with heat, fever, elbow pain, arm tension, childhood convulsions, urinary difficulties, skin conditions with heat
TCM Actions
Clears heat from the Lung, descends Lung qi, expels phlegm, relaxes the sinews, he-sea and Water point of the Lung meridian
Self-Care Use
Use when you have a cough producing thick, colored mucus, or a sore throat that feels hot and inflamed. Also helpful for elbow pain or tightness in the forearm. Press firmly beside the biceps tendon at the elbow crease for 1-2 minutes while breathing slowly.
Contraindications & Cautions
Avoid very firm pressure directly on the tendon itself. Use caution in individuals with elbow joint inflammation or recent injury.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the LU-5 Cubit Marsh acupressure point located?
LU-5 Cubit Marsh (Chǐ Zé) is located at: On the cubital crease of the elbow, in the depression lateral to the biceps brachii tendon, at the radial side of the cubital fossa. Slightly bend the elbow. Find the thick tendon in the center of the elbow crease (biceps tendon). The point is in the depression just to the thumb side of this tendon.
How long should I press LU-5 Cubit Marsh?
Apply moderate to firm pressure to LU-5 for 1-2 minutes per side. Press firmly with the thumb into the depression beside the tendon. Use steady sustained pressure or small circular movements. The point often produces a strong aching sensation when active.
What are the benefits of stimulating LU-5 Cubit Marsh?
Clears Lung heat, descends rebellious qi, relaxes the sinews, benefits the Bladder, opens the Water Passages
Is it safe to do acupressure on LU-5 at home?
Use when you have a cough producing thick, colored mucus, or a sore throat that feels hot and inflamed. Also helpful for elbow pain or tightness in the forearm. Press firmly beside the biceps tendon a Cautions: Avoid very firm pressure directly on the tendon itself. Use caution in individuals with elbow joint inflammation or recent injury.
Which meridian does LU-5 belong to?
LU-5 Cubit Marsh belongs to the Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian, which is associated with the Water (he-sea point of Metal meridian) element. Its TCM actions include: Clears heat from the Lung, descends Lung qi, expels phlegm, relaxes the sinews, he-sea and Water point of the Lung meridian