Modern lifestyles are busy, often leading to imbalanced diets, prolonged sitting, and lack of exercise, making constipation a common issue. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners remind us that in addition to a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, and reducing prolonged sitting, massaging a specific acupoint can also improve constipation.
Doctors recommend that to alleviate constipation problems, you press the "Zhi Gou acupoint" daily, known in TCM as the "constipation-relieving acupoint."
The Zhi Gou acupoint is the fire point on the Triple Burner Meridian of the hand. The Triple Burner Meridian governs the flow of Qi throughout the body, and the Zhi Gou acupoint helps clear heat, reduce fire, and regulate the Qi mechanism. Therefore, it is commonly used to treat diseases related to Qi mechanism disorders, most frequently for constipation.
Pressing the "Zhi Gou acupoint" daily can help alleviate constipation problems. (Image provided by Heho Health)
Many people who suffer from constipation experience irregular bowel movements, leading to prolonged and strained bowel movements. In TCM, this is called "Qi deficiency constipation," where the intestines lack the strength for proper peristalsis. Using the Zhi Gou acupoint can help regulate body functions in this case.
The Zhi Gou acupoint is located on the dorsal side of the forearm, 3 cun (approximately 4 finger widths) above the transverse wrist crease, between the ulna and radius. When pressed, it produces a noticeable sore and swollen sensation.
To find the acupoint, use your thumb to massage the Zhi Gou acupoint in a direct press, clockwise, or counterclockwise motion. Massage each hand for 3 to 5 minutes. Afterward, you may feel intestinal peristalsis or even burp, which are normal reactions. For those with chronic constipation, it is recommended to massage several times a day and to also massage the abdomen clockwise to enhance the effect.
Many people suffer from constipation. (Image provided by Heho Health)
In addition to improving constipation, the Zhi Gou acupoint can also help alleviate rib pain or intercostal neuralgia. Lin Guowei points out that the ribs refer to the area from the armpits to the sides of the body. For conditions like chest and rib fullness, Qi stagnation, and blood stasis, pressing the Zhi Gou acupoint can provide relief. Intercostal neuralgia, often caused by shingles, presents as pain along the ribs from the back to the front, and pressing the Zhi Gou acupoint can reduce this pain.
While acupoint massage can regulate body functions, it is important to seek qualified medical advice when problems arise. TCM treatments often involve acupuncture, cupping, bloodletting, and medication, which should not be attempted by unqualified individuals. Always consult a qualified TCM practitioner for treatment.
