Lung Channel (Hand Taiyin)

Introduction

The Lung Channel of Hand Taiyin plays a vital role in respiration, immune function, and fluid regulation. It governs the descending and disseminating functions of the Lung, influencing conditions related to breathing, skin health, and emotional states associated with grief and sadness.

Primary Channel Pathway

  • Originates in the middle jiao in the region of the Stomach.

  • Descends to connect with the Large Intestine before ascending to penetrate the Lung.

  • Travels upward to the throat and emerges at LU-1 (Zhongfu).

  • Runs down the anterolateral aspect of the arm to end at LU-11 (Shaoshang) on the radial side of the thumbnail.

Primary Channel Connects with Zangfu

  • Lung

  • Stomach

  • Large Intestine

Primary Channel Meets Other Channels at Points

  • None

Actions and Indications of the Lung Channel

  • Regulates qi and respiration, treating conditions like cough, asthma, and wheezing.

  • Clears heat and treats throat disorders, addressing sore throat, dry throat, and nasal congestion.

  • Regulates the water passages, influencing fluid metabolism and edema.

  • Manages rebellious qi, treating vomiting due to Stomach dysfunction.

Luo-Connecting Channel Pathway

  • Begins at LU-7 (Lieque).

  • Travels to the thenar eminence, connecting with the Large Intestine Channel.

  • Distributes over the palmar region.

Divergent Channel Pathway

  • Separates at the axilla, anterior to the Heart Channel.

  • Enters the chest, connecting with the Lung and Large Intestine.

  • Ascends across the throat, converging with the Large Intestine Channel.

Sinew Channel Pathway

  • Begins at LU-11 (Shaoshang) on the thumb.

  • Binds at the thenar eminence, follows the radial pulse to the elbow.

  • Travels to the shoulder, anterior to LI-15 (Jianyu).

  • Ascends the neck and chest, terminating in the supraclavicular region.

Sinew Channel Symptoms

  • Pain, cramping, and tightness along the channel pathway.

  • Accumulation of lumps below the lateral costal region.

  • Tension and discomfort in the lateral costal region.

  • Spitting of blood (hemoptysis) in severe cases.

Discussion of the Lung Channel

The Lung Channel of Hand Taiyin plays a fundamental role in qi circulation and respiration. It is closely associated with fluid metabolism, skin health, and immune function. The connection between the Lung and Large Intestine explains their mutual influence on respiration and elimination. The Lung channel is used clinically for treating respiratory disorders, skin conditions, fluid retention, and emotional imbalances related to sadness and grief.

Explore Lung Channel Points

Below is a list of acupuncture points on the Lung Channel, each of which will have a dedicated page:

  • LU-1 (Zhongfu) – Front Mu point of the Lung, treats respiratory issues.

  • LU-2 (Yunmen) – Clears Lung heat, treats cough and asthma.

  • LU-3 (Tianfu) – Regulates emotional imbalances.

  • LU-4 (Xiabai) – Benefits the chest and Lung qi.

  • LU-5 (Chize) – Clears Lung heat, relieves cough and asthma.

  • LU-6 (Kongzui) – Xi-Cleft point, used for acute cough and bleeding disorders.

  • LU-7 (Lieque) – Luo-Connecting point, regulates exterior conditions and Wei qi.

  • LU-8 (Jingqu) – Jing-River point, regulates Lung qi and voice disorders.

  • LU-9 (Taiyuan) – Yuan-Source point, strengthens the Lung, treats chronic conditions.

  • LU-10 (Yuji) – Clears heat from the Lung and throat.

  • LU-11 (Shaoshang) – Jing-Well point, treats acute throat and respiratory conditions.