Shangyingxiang Point (EX-HN8 / Upper Welcome Fragrance, also known as Bitong)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Shangyingxiang (EX-HN8 / Upper Welcome Fragrance). Learn its benefits for rhinitis, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, and nasal congestion – the extraordinary point for unblocking the nose – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Clears heat and disperses wind, unblocks the nasal orifices. Treats rhinitis, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, headache (frontal headache, sinus headache), nasal congestion, nasal polyps, epistaxis, and persistent cold tearing (epiphora).
Precise Location
On the face, at the junction of the nasal alar cartilage and the nasal concha, near the upper end of the nasolabial groove.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine. The point is at the junction of the nasal alar cartilage and the nasal concha, at the medial side of the upper end of the nasolabial groove – firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
Press and knead Shangyingxiang with the middle fingertip for 2–3 minutes daily to prevent and treat nasal disorders. Pressure should be moderate – a sore-distending sensation radiating into the nasal cavity is optimal. Deep breathing during massage enhances the effect. Therapeutic actions: Clears heat and disperses wind, unblocks the nasal orifices.
Compatibility
Persistent cold tearing (epiphora): Combine with Tianfu (LU-3) and Ganshu (BL-18) – with effects of soothing the liver and dispersing lung qi. Nasal congestion and sinusitis: Combine with Yintang (EX-HN3), Hegu (LI-4), and Feishu (BL-13) – with effects of unblocking the nasal orifices. Allergic rhinitis: Combine with Fengchi (GB-20), Zusanli (ST-36), and Feishu (BL-13). Epistaxis: Combine with Shangxing (GV-23) and Hegu (LI-4). Headache (sinus headache): Combine with Yintang (EX-HN3) and Taiyang (EX-HN5).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located above the nasal ala. It clears heat and disperses wind, and unblocks the nasal orifices. It is a commonly used key point for treating nasal disorders. First documented in the Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion. "Shang" means upper; "Yingxiang" refers to the Yingxiang point (LI-20). Located above Yingxiang, this point unblocks the nose and restores the sense of smell – hence the name Shangyingxiang (Upper Welcome Fragrance). It is also known as "Bitong" (Nose Unblocker). Shangyingxiang is a specific point for treating nasal disorders, with good therapeutic effects on various types of rhinitis. Simple massage or needling yields significant results.
Contraindications
Located near the nasal area, pressure should be moderate without excessive force. Needling should be horizontal or oblique, avoiding deep insertion to prevent injury to the nasal mucosa and cartilage.
