LI-11 - Pool at the Crook
曲池 - Qū chí
Point Region: Forearm
LI-11, or 'Quchi' (meaning 'Crooked Pond'), is the 'He-Sea' and 'Earth' point of the Large Intestine channel. It is located at the crease of the elbow when the arm is bent, where the 'pond' of energy gathers before flowing into the body. This point is a master point for clearing heat.
As a 'He-Sea' point, it has a deep and powerful action on the entire meridian and related organs. It is a go-to point for fever, skin conditions, and any ailment caused by 'excess heat' in the body. It is often referred to as a 'fountain of youth' point for its ability to cool the body and calm the mind, helping to reduce inflammation and promote a clear, vibrant complexion.
The name 'Crooked Pond' reflects its ability to redirect stagnant energy, much like a pond collects and then redirects a stream. By stimulating this point, you can clear excess heat and toxins, restoring a sense of calm and balance to the body's internal systems. This makes it an indispensable point for both acute and chronic conditions.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: Located at the elbow crease, in a prominent depression when the arm is flexed.
How to Locate:
- Bend your elbow to 90 degrees
- Find the crease where your elbow bends
- Locate the depression at the outer end of this crease
- The point is in this prominent hollow when your arm is bent
Primary Functions
Musculoskeletal System
- Treats tennis elbow and lateral epicondylitis
- Relieves elbow pain and stiffness
- Reduces shoulder and arm tension
- Improves joint mobility in upper extremity
Skin & Dermatological
- Treats eczema and skin allergies
- Reduces skin inflammation and itching
- Alleviates urticaria and skin rashes
- Promotes healthy skin function
Immune & Energy System
- Clears heat from the body
- Strengthens immune response
- Reduces inflammatory conditions
- Balances body temperature
Digestive System
- Regulates intestinal function
- Treats diarrhea and digestive heat
- Reduces abdominal inflammation
Nervous System
- Relieves headaches and migraines
- Treats hypertension
- Calms excessive heat conditions
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Fever
- Rash
- High blood pressure
- Sore throat
- Elbow pain
- Skin problems
- Hypertension
- Throat pain
- Eczema
- Allergies
- Inflammation
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
LI-11 Protocols
Skin Irritation & Heat Clearing (4 minutes)
- Sit with elbow bent and palm facing up
- Locate LI-11 (at the lateral end of the elbow crease)
- Apply firm pressure with thumb for 30 seconds
- Massage in circular motions for 1 minute to clear heat and soothe skin
- Repeat pressure while breathing slowly and relaxing the shoulders
Important Precautions
- Recent elbow surgery
- Severe elbow fracture
- Acute elbow dislocation