Zhourong Point (SP-20 / Surrounding Nourishment)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Zhourong (SP-20 / Surrounding Nourishment). Learn its benefits for cough, qi counterflow, and chest distension, plus classic combinations for respiratory and hypochondriac conditions.
Indications
Cough, qi counterflow, and chest and hypochondriac distension.
Precise Location
On the lateral chest, in the 2nd intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Location Method
Lie supine or sit upright. Straighten and bring together the index, middle, and ring fingers of the right hand with the fingertips pointing left – place the index finger on the left chest at the lower edge of the lateral clavicle; the point is where the ring finger rests. Use the same method to locate the opposite side.
Massage Method
Bring the index, middle, and ring fingers together – knead the point with the index finger pad. Apply once each morning and evening, for 1–3 minutes per session. Therapeutic actions: Regulates qi and transforms phlegm, disperses lung qi and relieves wheezing, soothes the chest and opens the diaphragm.
Compatibility
Chest and hypochondriac distension: Combine with Tanzhong (RN-17). Disease overview: Chest and hypochondriac distension may appear as visible swelling or as subjective fullness. The hypochondrium refers to the lateral chest areas (costal region) – often related to liver disorders. Massage sequence: Bring the index, middle, and ring fingers together – knead Zhourong with moderate pressure, once each morning and evening, for about 3 minutes; then massage Tanzhong for 2 minutes as an adjunct. Cough: Combine with Feishu (BL-13) and Zhongfu (LU-1).
Efficacy & Actions
In autumn, the northern climate is generally dry, and many people develop seasonal coughs; others cough due to dry throat and itchy throat, which may lead to respiratory or lung disorders. Additionally, some patients with hepatobiliary disorders sometimes experience chest and hypochondriac distension. Both cough and chest/hypochondriac distension can be relieved to a certain extent by massaging Zhourong. This point belongs to the Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian. It regulates qi and transforms phlegm, disperses lung qi and relieves wheezing, soothes the chest and opens the diaphragm. It is a commonly used point for treating chest and respiratory system disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Zhou" means all around or surrounding; "Rong" means to nourish or enrich. Located on the chest, where Spleen Meridian qi spreads around to nourish the chest and hypochondrium – hence the name Zhourong (Surrounding Nourishment).
