LI-4 - Joining Valley
合谷 - Hé gǔ
Point Region: Hand
LI-4 Hegu, meaning 'Joining Valley,' represents one of acupressure's most versatile and powerful points—a master key that can unlock relief for conditions throughout the entire body. Located in the webbing between thumb and index finger, this point sits in a valley where two mountain ridges of bone meet, symbolizing the power that emerges when opposing forces come together in harmony.
Known as the 'Great Eliminator,' Hegu excels at helping the body release what it no longer needs—whether that's physical pain, emotional tension, or energetic blockages that prevent optimal function. This point embodies the Large Intestine's essential wisdom: that health depends on our ability to let go of waste while retaining what nourishes us.
In the realm of pain relief, LI-4 stands virtually unrivaled, offering support for headaches, dental pain, stress tension, and countless other discomforts. Its location in the hand makes it easily accessible for self-treatment, while its broad therapeutic range makes it an indispensable tool for anyone seeking natural approaches to wellness and vitality.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: Located in the web between the thumb and index finger, in a palpable depression.
How to Locate:
- Make an L-shape with your thumb and index finger
- Find the webbing between these fingers
- Feel for the depression in the thick part of this webbing
- The point is in the highest part of the web between thumb and finger
Primary Functions
Nervous System
- Alleviates headaches and migraines
- Reduces facial pain and trigeminal neuralgia
- Relieves general pain throughout body
- Treats neck and shoulder tension
Oral & Dental Health
- Provides powerful toothache relief
- Reduces facial swelling
- Treats temporomandibular joint disorders
Digestive System
- Regulates bowel function
- Treats constipation and digestive sluggishness
- Reduces abdominal pain and cramping
Immune & Energy System
- Strengthens overall immunity
- Boosts defensive qi
- Enhances energy circulation
Respiratory System
- Clears nasal congestion
- Treats common cold and flu symptoms
- Alleviates respiratory inflammation
Emotional & Mental
- Calms stress and anxiety
- Promotes mental clarity
- Facilitates letting go and release
Gynecological System
- Regulates menstrual cycle
- Alleviates menstrual pain
- Assists with labor and delivery
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Headache
- Toothache
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Delayed labor
- Facial pain
- Dental pain
- Throat pain
- Common cold
- Constipation
- Stress
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
LI-4 Protocols
Headache & Immune Support (4 minutes)
- Sit comfortably with hand relaxed
- Locate LI-4 (web between thumb and index finger)
- Apply firm pressure with thumb for 30 seconds
- Massage in circular motions for 1 minute to relieve headache and boost immunity
- Repeat pressure while breathing deeply and relaxing the jaw
Important Precautions
- Pregnancy
- Recent hand surgery
- Severe hand injury