Tianfu Point (LU-3 / Heavenly Mansion)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Tianfu (LU-3 / Heavenly Mansion). Learn its benefits for cough, wheezing, nasal congestion, and nosebleeds, plus classic combinations for shoulder pain and throat conditions.
Indications
Clears and disperses lung qi, stops epistaxis (nosebleeds), and brightens the eyes. Treats cough, wheezing, nasal congestion, and pain on the medial side of the upper arm. This point belongs to the Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian. It clears and disperses lung qi, stops nosebleeds, and brightens the eyes. It is a commonly used point for lung-related disorders and nasal conditions. First documented in Lingshu · Benshu. "Tian" means heaven or upper; "Fu" means mansion or storehouse. The Lung is the canopy of the Zang organs, governing qi and respiration – this point is where lung qi gathers, hence the name Tianfu (Heavenly Mansion).
Precise Location
On the anterior aspect of the arm, 3 cun below the anterior axillary fold, at the radial border of the biceps brachii muscle. Raise the arm forward and bend the head down – the point is where the tip of the nose touches the medial side of the upper arm.
Location Method
Sit upright, raise the arm forward, and bend the head down – the point is where the tip of the nose touches the medial side of the upper arm. (Alternatively, measure 3 cun downward from the anterior axillary fold at the radial border of the biceps brachii.)
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead with the thumb or middle finger. ② Scraping therapy: Scrape from top to bottom. Press and knead Tianfu with the thumb or middle finger about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to prevent and treat pulmonary disorders. Therapeutic actions: Clears and disperses lung qi, stops nosebleeds and brightens the eyes, unblocks collaterals and relieves pain.
Compatibility
Shoulder and back pain: Combine with Tianzong (SI-11) and Jianyu (LI-15). Epistaxis (nosebleeds): Combine with Hegu (LI-4). Tumors, goiter, and sore throat: Combine with Qishe (ST-11) and Naohui (TE-13).
