LI-1 - Metal Yang

商阳 - Shāng yáng

Point Region: Hand

LI

Large Intestine Meridian

手阳明大肠经 - Shǒu Yángmíng Dàcháng Jīng

LI-1, also known as 'Shangyang' (meaning 'Metal Yang'), is the final point on the Large Intestine channel and its 'Jing-Well' point. This point is considered the beginning of the LI channel, located at the outermost corner of the index finger.

As a 'Jing-Well' point, its function is to 'clear heat' and 'release the exterior,' meaning it helps the body expel external pathogens. It's often used for conditions related to the throat and teeth, as these are the areas that the Large Intestine meridian passes through on its way to the head. LI-1 can be quite sensitive, which makes it an excellent indicator of energy blockages along the meridian.

The location of LI-1 at the end of the finger and the beginning of the channel makes it a significant point for jump-starting the flow of energy throughout the entire LI meridian. Just as a wellspring brings water to the surface, this point brings vital energy to the surface of the body, ready to travel along its pathway.

Location & How to Find

Anatomical Location: Located at the nail base of the index finger, on the radial side.

How to Locate:

  1. Look at your index finger
  2. Find the corner of the index finger nail on the thumb side
  3. Locate where the nail meets the skin at this corner
  4. The point is right at this junction
Location illustration for Located at the nail base of the index finger, on the radial side.

Primary Functions

Digestive System

  • Regulates bowel function and elimination
  • Relieves constipation and sluggish digestion
  • Stimulates intestinal peristalsis
  • Promotes healthy bowel movements

Respiratory System

  • Clears respiratory congestion
  • Alleviates breathing difficulties
  • Strengthens lung qi and defensive energy

Immune & Energy System

  • Boosts defensive qi (wei qi)
  • Enhances immune function
  • Increases overall vitality and energy

Emotional & Mental

  • Promotes letting go and release
  • Reduces mental stagnation
  • Helps with emotional detoxification

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

  • Sore throat
  • Toothache
  • Fever
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Throat pain
  • Dental pain
  • High temperature
  • Fainting

Related Health Concerns

Common Conditions:

N/A

Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.

LI-1 Protocols

N/A

Important Precautions

  • Broken skin around nail
  • Severe nail infections
  • Recent nail injury