Large Intestine Channel (Hand Yangming)

Introduction

The Large Intestine Channel of Hand Yangming is responsible for clearing heat, detoxifying the body, and regulating the functions of the sensory organs. This channel influences conditions related to the face, head, skin, and digestive system, playing a vital role in elimination and immune function.

Primary Channel Pathway

  • Begins at the radial side of the index finger (LI-1, Shangyang).

  • Travels along the lateral aspect of the arm, reaching the shoulder at LI-15 (Jianyu).

  • Crosses to the opposite side of the face, passing through DU-26 (Renzhong).

  • Terminates at LI-20 (Yingxiang) on the nasolabial groove, linking with the Stomach Channel.

Primary Channel Connects with Zangfu

  • Large Intestine

  • Lung

Primary Channel Meets Other Channels at Points

  • ST-4 (Dicang)

  • ST-12 (Quepen)

  • SI-12 (Bingfeng)

  • DU-14 (Dazhui)

  • DU-26 (Renzhong)

  • REN-24 (Chengjiang)

Actions and Indications of the Large Intestine Channel

  • Expels wind and clears heat, treating fever, inflammation, and infections.

  • Regulates the face and head, addressing nasal congestion, toothache, and eye disorders.

  • Alleviates pain along the channel, including arm, shoulder, and neck pain.

  • Improves bowel function, treating constipation and diarrhea.

Luo-Connecting Channel Pathway

  • Begins at LI-6 (Pianli).

  • Joins the Lung Channel 3 cun above the wrist.

  • Ascends the arm to the jaw and cheek, connecting with the teeth and ear.

Divergent Channel Pathway

  • Separates at the hand, ascends the arm to the shoulder.

  • Crosses the supraclavicular fossa, descends to the thorax and Large Intestine.

  • Ascends the throat to terminate at the Large Intestine Channel.

Sinew Channel Pathway

  • Begins at LI-1 (Shangyang) on the index finger.

  • Binds at the wrist, ascends to bind at the elbow and shoulder.

  • Continues up the neck, crosses the face, and binds at the nose.

  • Terminates at the opposite mandible, linking with the Stomach Sinew Channel.

Sinew Channel Symptoms

  • Pain, cramping, and stiffness along the channel pathway.

  • Inability to raise the shoulder or turn the neck.

  • Toothache, jaw pain, and facial paralysis.

Discussion of the Large Intestine Channel

The Large Intestine Channel of Hand Yangming is one of the most powerful channels for clearing excess heat and toxins from the body. It is coupled with the Lung Channel, which explains its role in regulating respiration, immunity, and elimination. The pathway's crossing to the opposite side of the face at DU-26 is clinically significant for facial paralysis and pain syndromes. As part of the Yangming system, which is abundant in qi and blood, this channel is particularly effective in treating inflammatory conditions, fever, and infections.

Explore Large Intestine Channel Points

Below is a list of acupuncture points on the Large Intestine Channel, each of which will have a dedicated page:

  • LI-1 (Shangyang) – Jing-Well point, clears heat and restores consciousness.

  • LI-2 (Erjian) – Ying-Spring point, reduces fever and benefits the throat.

  • LI-3 (Sanjian) – Shu-Stream point, treats toothache and eye disorders.

  • LI-4 (Hegu) – Yuan-Source point, regulates the face, clears wind-heat, and relieves pain.

  • LI-5 (Yangxi) – Jing-River point, alleviates wrist pain and benefits the eyes.

  • LI-6 (Pianli) – Luo-Connecting point, regulates water metabolism and treats edema.

  • LI-7 (Wenliu) – Xi-Cleft point, treats acute pain and detoxifies.

  • LI-8 (Xialian) – Harmonizes the Small Intestine and treats arm pain.

  • LI-9 (Shanglian) – Regulates Large Intestine qi and improves circulation.

  • LI-10 (Shousanli) – Supports digestion, relieves arm pain, and strengthens qi.

  • LI-11 (Quchi) – He-Sea point, clears heat and treats hypertension.

  • LI-12 (Zhouliao) – Relieves elbow pain and clears wind.

  • LI-13 (Shouwuli) – Regulates the arm and dissipates nodules.

  • LI-14 (Binao) – Benefits the eyes and shoulder.

  • LI-15 (Jianyu) – Treats shoulder pain and expels wind.

  • LI-16 (Jugu) – Benefits the shoulder and relieves pain.

  • LI-17 (Tianding) – Benefits the throat and voice.

  • LI-18 (Futu) – Clears throat heat and benefits the voice.

  • LI-19 (Kouheliao) – Opens nasal passages and benefits the mouth.

  • LI-20 (Yingxiang) – Opens nasal passages and clears sinus congestion.