Abundant Bulge
丰隆 Fēng Lóng · ST-40
About ST-40 Abundant Bulge
ST-40 Fenglong is the single most important acupuncture point for resolving phlegm in the body. In TCM, phlegm is not limited to respiratory mucus -- it is a pathological product that can lodge anywhere, producing nodules, lipomas, mental fog, dizziness, chest oppression, nausea, and even psychiatric disturbances. The saying in Chinese medicine is 'the Spleen produces phlegm and the Lung stores it,' but ST-40 addresses phlegm regardless of where it accumulates.
As the luo-connecting point of the Stomach meridian, Fenglong links the Stomach channel to the Spleen channel, bridging the two central organs of Earth (digestion). This connection is key to its phlegm-resolving power: phlegm in TCM originates from a failure of the Spleen to transform and transport fluids, causing them to congeal and accumulate. By activating the Stomach-Spleen luo connection, Fenglong restores the fluid metabolism at its source.
The name 'Abundant Bulge' refers to the muscular prominence at this location on the lower leg. Clinically, practitioners note that the tissue at ST-40 often feels congested, ropy, or nodular in patients with significant phlegm accumulation -- as if the phlegm pathology is palpable at the point itself. Vigorous stimulation here can produce a dramatic clearing effect, with patients reporting that their head feels clearer, their chest lighter, and their thinking sharper within minutes.
How to Find This Point
Find the midpoint between the knee crease and the tip of the outer ankle bone. At that level, press into the muscular area about two finger-widths to the outside of the shin bone. The point is in the fleshy part of the lower leg where the muscle bulges outward.
Technique
Press firmly with the thumb into the muscle. Deep circular kneading or sustained pressure. The point frequently feels congested or stringy under the fingers when phlegm is present in the body.
Pressure & Duration
Firm pressure for 2-3 minutes per side.
Benefits
Resolves phlegm, transforms dampness, calms the spirit, clears the mind, opens the chest, harmonizes the Stomach
Indications
Productive cough with copious phlegm, chest congestion, dizziness, mental fog, nausea, obesity, lipomas, nodules, depression with heaviness, headache from phlegm
TCM Actions
Resolves phlegm and dampness, clears phlegm from the Lung, calms the spirit, luo-connecting point of the Stomach meridian
Self-Care Use
The master point for clearing phlegm from anywhere in the body. Press firmly on the outer calf at the midpoint of the lower leg when experiencing chest congestion, thick mucus, brain fog, or a general feeling of heaviness. Also useful for headaches that feel dull and heavy. Press firmly for 2-3 minutes per side, daily if phlegm conditions are chronic.
Contraindications & Cautions
No major contraindications. Generally safe for self-care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the ST-40 Abundant Bulge acupressure point located?
ST-40 Abundant Bulge (Fēng Lóng) is located at: On the anterolateral aspect of the lower leg, 8 cun superior to the tip of the external malleolus, two finger-breadths lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia, one finger-breadth lateral to ST-38. Find the midpoint between the knee crease and the tip of the outer ankle bone. At that level, press into the muscular area about two finger-widths to the outside of the shin bone. The point is in the
How long should I press ST-40 Abundant Bulge?
Apply firm pressure to ST-40 for 2-3 minutes per side. Press firmly with the thumb into the muscle. Deep circular kneading or sustained pressure. The point frequently feels congested or stringy under the fingers when phlegm is present in the body.
What are the benefits of stimulating ST-40 Abundant Bulge?
Resolves phlegm, transforms dampness, calms the spirit, clears the mind, opens the chest, harmonizes the Stomach
Is it safe to do acupressure on ST-40 at home?
The master point for clearing phlegm from anywhere in the body. Press firmly on the outer calf at the midpoint of the lower leg when experiencing chest congestion, thick mucus, brain fog, or a general Cautions: No major contraindications. Generally safe for self-care.
Which meridian does ST-40 belong to?
ST-40 Abundant Bulge belongs to the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian, which is associated with the Earth element. Its TCM actions include: Resolves phlegm and dampness, clears phlegm from the Lung, calms the spirit, luo-connecting point of the Stomach meridian