LR-3 Taichong
LR-3 Taichong (太沖) is a point on the Liver meridian. In TCM theory it is described as influencing the channel's qi, and it is traditionally used in the context of the whole pattern rather than as a stand-alone remedy. This page explains how to locate it, what the tradition says about it, and how to press it safely.
Location
On the dorsum of the foot, in the depression before the junction of the first and second metatarsal bones.
How to find it
Slide a finger from between the big and second toes toward the ankle until the two bones meet. The point is in the hollow just before the junction.
Traditional functions
- Shu-stream and yuan-source point of the Liver meridian
- Moves liver qi and calms liver yang
- Benefits the eyes and the head
Traditional uses
- Stress and irritability
- Headache and eye strain
- Menstrual tension
- Side-of-body tension
How to press it
Press firmly for 1–2 minutes per foot. It is often tender; use steady pressure and breathe out slowly.
Acupressure is generally a gentle practice. Use the pad of the thumb or finger, start with light pressure, and increase only to a comfortable level. A mild ache or warmth is common; sharp pain is a signal to ease off.
Safety
Use gentle pressure during pregnancy. Avoid over broken skin or a foot injury.
How this is viewed today
LR-3 is widely used in trials for stress, headache, and pain, with small samples and mixed results.
Sources & further reading
- Huangdi Neijing (黃帝內經), c. 2nd century BCE.
- Nanjing (難經), c. 1st–2nd century CE.
- World Health Organization, Standard Acupuncture Nomenclature, 2nd ed., 1991.
- Deadman P, Al-Khafaji M, Baker K. A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Acupuncture: What You Need To Know.
Related: Liver meridian · Acupoint library · LR-2 Xingjian · LI-4 Hegu · GB-20 Fengchi · all twelve meridians