What if there was a natural way to support your eyesight while also bringing that youthful glow back to your skin? As we age, our vision often declines, with presbyopia affecting many adults over 45. This gradual loss of near vision is surprisingly common, impacting 9 out of 10 people in this age group and leading to a reliance on reading glasses.
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), stimulating the Yang White (Yang Bai, GB14) acupoint may offer this dual benefit, opening the door to a holistic approach to better vision and a more vibrant appearance.
The TCM Perspective on Yang Bai
The first recorded mention of Yang Bai dates back to the classic “Acupuncture and Moxibustion Classic (Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing).” In TCM, the liver and gallbladder are closely linked to eye health. As we age, the body’s ability to circulate blood and vital energy (qi) weakens, leading to diminished vision, eye dryness, or fatigue.
Additionally, an imbalance between yin and yang contributes to the decline in eye function. Stimulating Yang Bai helps restore balance and improve circulation, benefiting both the eyes and the surrounding facial tissue. This can result in clearer vision, reduced eye strain, and a brighter, healthier complexion.
Scientific Insights on Acupoint Stimulation
Western medicine is gradually exploring the value of acupuncture for vision and facial health. Several studies suggest that stimulating Yang Bai may complement traditional treatments.
One clinical trial compared two treatment groups—one using only eye drops and another combining acupuncture with eye drops—to address presbyopia linked to liver depression and spleen deficiency. While both groups showed improvement, the acupuncture group experienced greater relief from visual fatigue and better eye function regulation.
Another study explored the effectiveness of acupuncture-moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) versus conventional medication for treating acute Bell’s palsy, a condition that causes temporary facial paralysis. Patients who received acupuncture showed better facial nerve function, improved muscle activity, and enhanced circulation, leading to a higher recovery rate of 93.3 percent versus 83.3 percent. This suggests that acupuncture can promote nerve regeneration and facial rejuvenation.
How to Lacate and Stimulate Yang Bai
Locating Yang Bai is simple. Look straight ahead and draw an imaginary vertical line from the center of your pupil upward. The acupoint is positioned one finger-width above your eyebrow.
Incorporating Yang Bai into your routine is easy and can be done at home:
- Firm Press and Release: Apply steady pressure for three to five seconds, release, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage the point in small circles for one to three minutes per side.
- Herbal Patch Therapy: Apply an herbal patch for prolonged stimulation and enhanced benefits. Overnight application can be a convenient option.
- Professional Therapies: For deeper activation, consult a licensed TCM practitioner who can perform acupuncture for precise stimulation or moxibustion (a warming technique using burning mugwort) to further boost circulation.
Important Safety Considerations
While acupressure is generally safe, it’s essential to keep a few precautions in mind:
- Avoid stimulating the area if you have injuries, bruises, or open wounds on your forehead.
- If using herbal patches, choose those with natural, non-irritating ingredients.
- Avoid aggressive artificial chemicals, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Enhancing Self-Care with Acupressure
Healthy circulation benefits your vision and supports your entire body. If you spend long hours on screens, reading, or experiencing frequent eye strain, incorporating Yang Bai stimulation into your routine can be an effective way to maintain eye health and overall well-being. The best part? Along with better vision, you may enjoy a smoother, more radiant complexion—a natural beauty bonus that comes from within.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 6 Mar 2025
