1. Zusanli
Zusanli is one of the acupoints for health preservation in the human body, also known as the "longevity point" by ancient people. The meridian theory of Zusanli has been confirmed by numerous modern studies. Zusanli has a regulating effect on the cerebral cortex, cardiovascular function, gastrointestinal peristalsis, endocrine function, and immune system. According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine meridians, Zusanli is located on the Stomach Meridian of Foot Yangming, which is a meridian with abundant Qi and blood flow that runs from head to foot, covering the head, face, chest, abdomen, and the lateral aspect of the lower limbs. Therefore, Zusanli can not only regulate the function of the digestive system but also treat diseases in the areas along the Stomach Meridian, as well as various systemic diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and diabetes. Regular cupping on Zusanli can have a health-promoting effect.
2. Yongquan
Yongquan is the first acupoint on the Kidney Meridian of Foot Shaoyin, located at the center of the sole of the foot. It is prone to the accumulation of dampness and toxins in the body, which can block the flow of Qi along the meridian or spread to other parts of the body through the meridian, causing various diseases. Cupping on Yongquan can eliminate the dampness and toxins in the body, promote the flow of Qi along the Kidney Meridian, and enhance the vitality of the kidneys. Strong kidney Qi leads to strong overall energy, dark hair, good hearing and vision, and delayed aging.
3. Sanyinjiao
Sanyinjiao is the intersection point of the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen meridians. The Liver stores blood, the Spleen governs blood, and the Kidney stores essence. Essence and blood are closely related. The Kidney is the foundation of innate essence, and the Spleen is the foundation of acquired essence. The innate essence relies on the nourishment of acquired essence, and the acquired essence relies on the promotion of innate essence. Regular cupping on Sanyinjiao can regulate the Qi of the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney meridians, promote the abundance of innate essence and the sufficiency of acquired essence, thereby achieving health and longevity.
4. Shenque
Shenque, also known as the navel, is an important acupoint for health preservation and treatment in the human body. The fetus obtains nutrients from the mother through the umbilical cord, which is why it is called the "root of life". It is the gateway for the flow of vital energy in the human body and belongs to the Conception Vessel, which is the sea of Qi and the foundation of the five Zang organs and six Fu organs. Regular cupping on Shenque can invigorate the spleen and strengthen the kidneys, regulate the stomach and Qi, promote the circulation of Qi and water, disperse stagnation, activate blood circulation, and regulate menstruation.
5. Beiyu
The Back-Shu points of the five Zang organs and six Fu organs are all located along the first lateral line of the Urinary Bladder Meridian of Foot Taiyang. Cupping on this line can regulate the meridian Qi of the five Zang organs and six Fu organs, promote the physiological functions of these organs, and enhance the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. It is a commonly used acupoint in health-preserving cupping therapy. Medical research has found that cupping on the Back-Shu points can stimulate the central nervous system reflexively through the treatment of spinal nerve roots, regulate the function of the nervous system, and enhance the body's resistance to diseases.
6. Baihui
Baihui, also known as the "Meeting Point of the Three Yang and Five Meetings," is the meeting point of all the Yang meridians on the head. Cupping or regular massage on this acupoint has a significant effect on the prevention and treatment of cerebrovascular diseases. It has a remarkable lifting effect and is especially effective for organ prolapse. It is necessary to have a haircut when cupping on this acupoint, otherwise the sealing effect will be compromised, affecting the therapeutic effect.
Baihui is located at the intersection point of the midline of the head and the line connecting the tips of both ears. Its functions include calming the liver and extinguishing wind, clearing heat and opening the orifices, invigorating Yang and replenishing Qi, and awakening the brain and calming the spirit.
7. Dazhui
Dazhui belongs to the Governing Vessel and is located at the prominent midpoint between the seventh cervical vertebra and the first thoracic vertebra, which is prominent when lowering the head. It is the meeting point of the three Yang meridians of the hands and feet and the Governing Vessel. Dazhui is located at the uppermost part of the back, making it the acupoint with the most Yang energy. It has the functions of regulating Yin and Yang, dredging meridians, promoting Qi and blood circulation, clearing heat and detoxifying, preventing colds, and enhancing the body's immune function.
8. Neiguan
Neiguan is an important acupoint on the Pericardium Meridian of Hand Jueyin, located on the palm side of the wrist crease, between the tendons of the flexor carpi radialis muscle and the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle. It has the functions of calming the heart and calming the spirit, regulating Qi and the stomach, and dredging meridians and collaterals. Regular cupping on Neiguan can promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood along the Pericardium Meridian, playing an important role in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Since the Pericardium Meridian of Hand Jueyin passes through the upper, middle, and lower Jiaos, it also has good therapeutic effects on lung and gastrointestinal diseases.
9. Hegu
Hegu, also known as the "Tiger's Mouth," belongs to the Large Intestine Meridian of Hand Yangming. The Large Intestine Meridian starts from the hand, runs along the outer side of the arm, and extends to the head and face. Hegu has the functions of clearing and draining Yangming, dispelling wind and detoxifying, dredging meridians and collaterals, and relieving pain and opening the orifices. Regular cupping can promote dental health, treat toothache and facial diseases. It can also maintain smooth bowel movements, facilitate the elimination of toxins and waste, and have the effects of nourishing the skin and anti-aging.
