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The 5 Shu Transporting Points  

Show Notes

Today, we’re diving into one of the most important channels in Traditional Chinese Medicine: the Large Intestine meridian. Whether you’re a student reviewing for exams or a practitioner refreshing your knowledge, this guide will walk you through the pathway, key functions, and essential acupuncture points you’ll use in clinic again and again.

The Large Intestine channel (Hand Yang Ming) is a yang channel paired with the Lung channel (Hand Tai Yin). Its organ clock time is 5–7 AM, which, interestingly, is considered the optimal time for healthy bowel movements.

The channel begins at the radial side of the index finger (LI 1), travels along the radial aspect of the arm, passes the elbow and shoulder, and then ascends to the face, ending next to the nose at LI 20. Along the way, it briefly enters the body, connecting with the large intestine and the lung organs.

Because of its pathway, the Large Intestine channel is often used for:

• Digestive support (constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain)

• Head, face, and throat conditions (toothache, sinusitis, sore throat)

• Pain management in the arm, shoulder, and upper body

Key Acupuncture Points on the Large Intestine Meridian

Let’s break down the most clinically useful points on this channel:

Large Intestine 1 to 5

• 1: Jing-Well point. Revives consciousness, clears heat, and reduces high fever. Sometimes used in emergencies like fainting or heat stroke.

• 2 & 3: Less commonly used but helpful for toothaches and clearing excess heat in the upper body.

• 4: One of the most famous acupuncture points! A true “command point” for the face and mouth, and a go-to for pain anywhere in the body. Also useful for headaches, sinus issues, and inducing labour. Contraindicated in pregnancy until delivery is imminent.

• 5: Helps with wrist pain, local issues, and clears heat, especially in the throat and eyes.

LI 6 to 11

• 6: Luo-connecting point. Reduces edema and swelling, often used in cases of allergic reactions or water metabolism issues.

• 7: Xi-cleft point. Effective for acute pain and clearing heat.

• 8, 9, 10: Great for local arm pain, especially conditions like tennis elbow or carpal tunnel syndrome. LI 10, in particular, is sometimes called “the arm’s ST36” because of its ability to tonify Qi and Blood.

• 11: A powerhouse point for clearing heat, reducing fever, lowering inflammation, and treating skin disorders like eczema or hives.

Large Intestine 12 to 15

• 12–14: Used for local pain in the upper arm and shoulder.

• 15: One of the best points for shoulder pain and restricted movement. Often paired with cupping or electroacupuncture for rotator cuff injuries or frozen shoulder.

LI 16 to LI 20

• 16: Benefits shoulder pain, especially when combined with LI 15.

• 17–19: Helpful for throat, voice, and facial issues.

• 20: Famous for opening nasal passages. Used for sinus congestion, chronic rhinitis, and hay fever.

Clinical Highlights of the Large Intestine Meridian

• Pain Relief: From headaches to frozen shoulder, LI points are indispensable in musculoskeletal treatments.

• Clearing Heat: LI 4 + LI 11 are a powerful duo for reducing fever, skin rashes, and inflammation.

• Head & Face Conditions: Toothache, sinusitis, sore throat, and nasal congestion all respond well to this channel.

• Digestive Function: As the “yang partner” of the Lung, the Large Intestine helps regulate elimination, making it key in constipation treatments.

Final Thoughts

The Large Intestine meridian is much more than a pathway on the arm—it’s a versatile tool in acupuncture practice. From emergency fever reduction (LI 1, LI 11) to pain management (LI 4, LI 10, LI 15) and respiratory or nasal relief (LI 20), this channel has wide-ranging applications that every acupuncturist should master.

The more familiar you become with these points, the more confident you’ll feel in clinic—and the faster you’ll see results with your patients.

If you found this helpful, share it with a colleague or student who’s learning the channels. The Large Intestine is one of those meridians you’ll use daily, so it’s worth knowing inside and out.

Disclaimer
The Acupro Show podcast and material shared through Acupro Academy are a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor a Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. As well as, users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice. For any existing medical condition, with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.

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