Springtime brings warmth, blooming flowers, and, sometimes, skin irritation. If you find yourself constantly scratching—feeling like the itch is moving around your body—traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) might have an explanation: wind.
Not the kind that blows through the trees—this refers to an internal imbalance that can trigger symptoms like rashes, headaches, and stiffness. Thankfully, the acupoint Wind Market (Feng Shi, GB31) is a frequently used tool to help soothe these types of symptoms.
What Is Wind and How Does Feng Shi Help?
Feng Shi was first recorded in “Prescriptions for Emergencies,” a medical handbook by Ge Hong during the Eastern Jin Dynasty (A.D. 283–343). This classic text focused on herbal remedies, acupuncture, and moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) to address acute illnesses.
The name of this acupoint provides a clue to its function: Feng (wind) represents a pathogenic force that disrupts the body’s balance, often appearing as symptoms that come and go, like headaches and itching. Shi (market) suggests a place where things gather, indicating Feng Shi’s strong potential to dispel wind or help the body eliminate the pathogen.
While Feng Shi is famous for easing whole-body itching, it also benefits the lower body. It promotes the flow of qi, relieves pain and numbness in the legs, and strengthens the knees—an added perk for those experiencing mobility issues.
Science Supports Feng Shi’s Pain-Relieving Power
Modern medicine is beginning to explore the biological mechanisms behind the therapeutic effects of acupuncture points like Feng Shi. One study investigated the effects of low-level laser acupuncture on post-surgical pain in elderly patients undergoing total knee replacement.
In a randomized trial, 82 participants were divided into two groups: one receiving laser stimulation at acupoints, including Feng Shi, and the other receiving the same procedure without laser energy.
Results showed that those receiving real laser acupuncture experienced significantly lower pain levels between 10 and 72 hours after surgery. They also needed less morphine for pain management, reducing common side effects like nausea and vomiting. The study suggests that acupoint stimulation, including Feng Shi, can be a valuable complementary approach to pain relief.
Another study examined how electrical stimulation at acupuncture points affects pain perception in rats. Researchers applied high-intensity, low-frequency electrical pulses to both acupuncture and non-acupuncture points and measured how long it took for the rats to respond to pain.
They found that stimulating acupuncture points, including Feng Shi, led to long-lasting pain relief, whereas non-acupuncture points provided only short-term effects. The study suggests acupuncture points influence how the nervous system processes pain, providing deeper, more sustained relief.
How to Late and Stimulate Feng Shi
There are two common ways to locate Feng Shi:
- Stand straight and let your arms hang naturally. The point where your middle finger touches the outer thigh is approximately where Feng Shi is located. However, due to individual anatomical differences, this method may not always be accurate.
- A more precise approach is to start from the midpoint of your knee on the outer side of the leg and measure eight fingers plus a thumb width upwards toward your hip. Feng Shi is located along the midline on the outer side of your thigh at this level.
There are three ways to stimulate Feng Shi:
- Finger Pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then release for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular Massage: Use your index finger or thumb to massage in small circles for one to three minutes per side.
- Herbal Patches: Apply a patch to Feng Shi and leave it overnight for added relief.
- Advanced Therapies: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion performed by a trained TCM professional can enhance the benefit.
Precautions to Keep in Mind
Avoid stimulating Feng Shi if you have injuries in the area, as applying pressure could worsen the condition. If using herbal patches, be cautious about artificial additives, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Use Feng Shi
You don’t have to experience seasonal allergies, mysterious itching, or weak knees to start using Feng Shi. In TCM, preventing problems before they arise is a cornerstone of good health. Regular stimulation of this acupoint can help support circulation and dispel wind before it causes discomfort.
Incorporate Feng Shi into your wellness routine to stay ahead of seasonal changes and enjoy healthier skin and stronger legs year-round.
The article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Shihhsiang Hung.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 19 Mar 2025
