Large Intestine Meridian of Hand-Yangming (LI)
The Hand-Yangming Large Intestine Meridian is closely related to the Lung Meridian. It serves as the protector of both the lung and the large intestine. The Large Intestine Meridian of Hand-Yangming originates from the tip of the index finger, runs upward along the anterior border of the lateral aspect of the upper limb, passes through the shoulder, and enters the supraclavicular fossa. There, it connects with the lung, then passes through the diaphragm and enters the large intestine, its pertaining organ. Another branch ascends from the supraclavicular fossa along the neck, enters the lower teeth, passes through the philtrum, and terminates at the side of the nose (at the acupoint LI-20, Welcome Fragrance).
Active Hours
Mao hour, Large Intestine Meridian
Functions
The Lingshu (Spiritual Pivot), in the chapter "Meridians" (Jing Mai), records: "The Large Intestine Meridian of Hand-Yangming governs disorders of the fluids (jin). These include: yellow eyes, dry mouth, sniveling and epistaxis, throat impediment (throat bi), pain in the anterior shoulder and upper arm, and pain and motor dysfunction of the index finger."
Related Conditions
Visceral patterns (Zang-fu symptoms): borborygmus (rumbling intestines) with abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, rectal prolapse, etc. When the qi of the large intestine is exhausted, uncontrollable diarrhea occurs. Meridian patterns (Jing-luo symptoms): When the Large Intestine Meridian is obstructed, pain, soreness and distension, numbness, and other sensations manifest along its pathway, including the index finger, upper limb, dorsum of the hand, and posterior shoulder.
Daily Care
The lungs distribute abundant fresh blood throughout the entire body. This then promotes the Large Intestine Meridian to enter an active state, completing the process of absorbing water and nutrients from food and discharging the waste. Get up promptly. After rising, drink a glass of plain warm water, and then head straight to the toilet to expel all the waste that has accumulated overnight. Each day during the Mao hour (5:00–7:00 a.m.), the large intestine undergoes active peristalsis. At this time, pat or tap the acupoints along the pathway of the Large Intestine Meridian, especially points such as Erjian (LI2), Quchi (LI11), and Hegu (LI4). Doing this once daily can promote the elimination of toxins and waste.
Acupoints
No acupoints listed for this meridian yet.