In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), many acupoints are recognized for their widespread applications, while others, like Zhong Feng (LR4), remain lesser-known despite their potential. This acupoint is traditionally used to treat conditions such as hernia, enuresis, and spermatorrhea—issues that are relatively uncommon and may send you straight to Google search for definitions. However, its strategic position on the liver meridian—the energy pathway associated with liver function—makes it a valuable yet underappreciated acupoint. Perhaps most intriguingly, modern research is beginning to explore its potential role in alleviating depression, offering new reasons to give it more attention.
Benefits and Functions
Zhong Feng plays a crucial role in promoting the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) within the body. Historically, it has been used for:
- Abdominal pain: Effective for conditions where an internal organ pushes through weak spots in muscle or tissue, causing discomfort.
- Urinary issues: It addresses problems like incomplete bladder emptying and frequent urges to urinate.
- Male reproductive health: Zhong Feng is used for treating involuntary semen leakage and erectile dysfunction.
Zhong Feng is particularly valuable for older individuals as it supports the preservation of Jing, or life essence, a concept in TCM akin to the protective caps on DNA (telomeres) that shorten with age, indicating a decline in vitality. The liver and kidneys work together to safeguard Jing and blood, making Zhong Feng essential for long-term health and energy.
Science and Tradition: The Modern Take on Zhong Feng
While TCM has long utilized Zhong Feng for physical health, recent studies suggest its potential mental health benefits as well. A group of medical researchers in South Korea conducted trials on mice and found:
- Depression and Liver Health: Chronic stress can disrupt fat metabolism, increase inflammation, and weaken liver function, all of which contribute to depression. Acupuncture at points like Zhong Feng restored balance, improving lipid metabolism and immune response, and reducing depressive symptoms.
- Serotonin and Brain Activity: Another study showed that stimulating liver meridian points, including Zhong Feng, increased serotonin receptor activity in the brain, boosting mood and reducing depression-like behaviors in stressed mice.
These findings align with TCM’s view that liver health is closely linked to emotional well-being, reinforcing Zhong Feng’s importance.
Finding Zhong Feng
Locating Zhong Feng is simple: Flex your toes upward to make the tendon on your big toe visible. Slide your thumb along the tendon towards the bony bump on the inner side of your ankle. Halfway along, you’ll find a small dip that feels slightly sore when pressed. That’s Zhong Feng.
How to Stimulate Zhong Feng
There are several methods to stimulate Zhong Feng, from at-home techniques to professional treatments:
- At-Home Methods:
- Acupressure: Apply firm pressure for 10-15 seconds, release for 10 seconds, and repeat for 1-5 minutes on each leg.
- Massage: Use circular motions with steady pressure to enhance Qi flow and blood circulation. Massage for 1-3 minutes on each leg.
- Herbal Patch Therapy: A warming herbal patch can further activate the point.
- Professional Techniques:
- Acupuncture: A trained practitioner can stimulate Zhong Feng more effectively using thin needles.
- Moxibustion: This involves warming the point with burning mugwort herb to enhance energy flow.
Who Should Use Zhong Feng?
Zhong Feng is highly beneficial for:
- Individuals with abdominal discomfort or bloating
- People experiencing urinary or reproductive health issues
- Those struggling with stress, anger, or depression
- Older adults aiming to support liver and kidney function for longevity
Who Should Avoid It?
It’s best to avoid Zhong Feng if you are:
- Pregnant, as excessive Qi and blood flow stimulation could be unsafe
- Experiencing open wounds or infections at the acupoint’s location
- Recovering from recent injuries in the area, such as broken bones or sprained ankles
Reconnect With Your Body
Zhong Feng is often overlooked, but it’s a powerful tool in both traditional and modern healing practices. By spending a little time tuning into your body and testing this acupoint, you can tap into its potential to enhance energy flow and support your mental well-being. As research continues to explore its role in treating depression, more people are discovering its benefits. Share this hidden gem with meaningful older people around you and see how this hidden gem can make a difference.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 5 Feb 2025
