Do you often stay up late? Modern life takes its toll on our sleep, whether due to shift work, tight deadlines, or working across time zones. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a powerful but often overlooked solution for disrupted sleep patterns—the Qu Quan acupoint. While not as widely employed as other liver-related acupoints, its benefits are uniquely suited to today’s sleepless lifestyle.
Benefits and Functions of Qu Quan
Qu Quan, located on the liver meridian, is a “Sea” or “He” point, meaning it serves as a major energy hub within a network of pathways, known as meridians, that transport vital energy, or qi, throughout the body. This particular point directly influences its corresponding organ—the liver. The liver is considered responsible for blood circulation in Western and Chinese medicine, but in TCM, it has an additional crucial function—nourishing the body’s yin energy. Yin represents the body’s ability to rest and restore, primarily at night. When sleep is disrupted, yin is depleted, leading to issues like:
- Low mood and depression
- Eye strain and fatigue
- Persistent sleep difficulties
Often labeled as “yin deficiency” in TCM, such depletion is a hallmark of modern lifestyles. Stimulating Qu Quan can help replenish yin energy and support the body’s natural restorative functions.
Modern Science Meets TCM Wisdom
Qu Quan was first documented in the Ling Shu, one of the foundational texts of acupuncture theory. The second character in its name means “a spring,” symbolizing its ability to refresh and revitalize the liver.
Modern research is beginning to validate TCM methods. Studies on electro-acupuncture indicate that stimulating a He point like Qu Quan increases blood flow to the corresponding organ. Additionally, preliminary research suggests that Qu Quan (LR8) may have potential benefits for mood regulation, though more studies are needed. These findings align with TCM’s belief that this acupoint plays an important role in physical and emotional well-being.
How to Find and Stimulate Qu Quan
The first character in Qu Quan’s name means “twist” or “turn,” offering a clue for finding it. There are two ways to locate Qu Quan:
- Sit with your knee bent at a 90-degree angle. Slide your fingers along the inner side of your thigh towards the knee joint until you reach a tender depression where two large tendons come together.
- Place the center of your palm over your knee and spread your fingers as if hugging a ball. Qu Quan should be located under your thumb.
If pressing the area feels sore, you’ve found the right spot.
For easy at-home stimulation, try the following methods:
- Acupressure: Apply firm pressure for five seconds, release for a couple of seconds, and repeat on both sides for 1–3 minutes.
- Circular Rubbing: Firmly massage the point in small circles with your thumb to enhance blood flow.
- Heat Therapy: Apply a warming herbal patch overnight or use a blow dryer on a low setting to warm the point for 10–15 minutes per side if direct pressure feels uncomfortable.
- Advanced Techniques: For deeper stimulation, consult a TCM professional about acupuncture or moxibustion (gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort).
Who Can Benefit From Qu Quan?
Qu Quan is especially beneficial for:
- Shift workers and night owls
- People with irregular schedules or frequent travelers
- Those who experience sleep disturbances and fatigue due to modern lifestyles
Cautions
- Since the liver governs blood and energy flow, avoid stimulating this point during pregnancy unless advised by a TCM professional.
- If you have knee injuries, opt for gentler techniques like heat therapy.
- Those with open wounds should wait for healing before using acupressure.
Stay One Step Ahead
Just a few minutes of acupressure on Qu Quan can help counteract the toll of modern life. In TCM, regularly stimulating this point supports the body’s ability to recover from sleep deprivation. Acupressure also strengthens the mind-body connection—take a moment to notice how you feel before and after each session.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 9 Feb 2025
