Zu San Li: Point of Longevity (The Point of Hundred Diseases) – How to Activate It
Zu San Li, so named the “point of longevity,” as well as the “point of a hundred diseases” is a pressure point located just below the patella (kneecap) and between the two bones of the lower leg. Many people claim that massaging this pressure point controls the flow of energy to myriad bodily parts, and many disorders can be treated via the stimulation of Zu San Li.
Pressure point stimulation, whether by massage (acupressure) or through stimulation with fine needles (acupuncture), is a practice that is part art and part science, and dates back to ancient times in the Far East.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has used pressure point stimulation for millennia, and both practitioners and patients swear by the amazing results it produces.
The practice of massaging or puncturing pressure points is based on a holistic approach to medicine, where the entire body and all its organs and systems are connected, with one area interacting with other areas.
Read on to find out how to message the pressure point (Zu San Li) and what could happen to your body when you do that.
Pressure Point Basics
There are hundreds of pressure points located in various places all over the body, and 12 larger meridians or lines along which the points themselves reside1.
Each meridian governs the function of certain bodily systems, and each pressure point has specific organs or other body parts associated with it.
By stimulating these pressure points in specific ways, we can help correct imbalances of energy (called qi) in our bodies and help to keep the flow of these bodily energies from growing stagnant.
Acupuncture and Acupressure
Acupuncture and acupressure are both time-tested methods for stimulating the body’s pressure points, either via massage or via the insertion of ultra-thin needles into the pressure points or along the meridians.
While both of these forms of pressure point stimulation require years of study and practice in order to become a practitioner, it is possible for lay persons to stimulate pressure points at home using massage (acupressure).
Note: know the precise location of the pressure point you are attempting to massage to ensure you do not apply pressure to the wrong area. Please do not attempt acupuncture at home!
Zu San Li – Point Of Longevity: Where it is Located
Zu San Li, so named the “point of longevity,” as well as the “point of a hundred diseases” by respected Chinese acupuncturist Wang Leting, is a pressure point located just below the patella (kneecap) and between the two bones of the lower leg (see illustration).
You can locate this point by taking the palm of your hand and placing it over your kneecap as you sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you, heels to the floor and toes curling back towards the body.
The point is located between the little finger and ring finger. You should note a small dent beneath the kneecap and between the bones—this is the miracle pressure point, Zu San Li.
This one spot can control the flow of energy to myriad bodily parts, and many disorders can be treated via stimulation of Zu San Li alone (or in conjunction with other pressure points).
Zu San Li Location Chart
What Zu San Li Can Treat
The organs affected by Zu San Li are virtually endless, hence the area’s name of “the point of a hundred diseases”! Let’s take a look at a few of the disorders that can be remedied with stimulation of this amazing pressure point.
Liver function – Massaging the Zu San Li pressure point can improve liver function, helping to regulate bile production and improve the organ’s ability to filter toxins that enter the body.
Kidney function – The kidneys can also benefit from stimulation of Zu San Li, warding off kidney infections and keeping their function optimal.
Metabolic function – Zu San Li is also associated with improvement of metabolic function, with some acupressure patients reporting regular weight loss associated with regular stimulation of this pressure point. Constipation can also be ended with massage of this spot on the body.
Cardiac function – Heart function may be improved with massage of Zu San Li, resulting in improvements in circulation, arrhythmias (irregular heart beating), palpitations, and overall health.
Blood pressure irregularities – When blood pressure is too high or abnormally low, stimulation of Zu San Li can help to bring balance back to the qi governing blood pressure.
Blood sugar irregularities and diabetes – Reports of improvement in insulin metabolism malfunction and irregular blood sugar levels—such as those experienced by people with diabetes—are also associated with massage or acupuncture at the point of longevity.
Research About Zu San Li
Several research studies published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that treatment with Zu San Li relieved gastric spasms of patients who had fiber optic gastroscopy test.
In another study cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy were able to reduce or even eliminate the unpleasant side effects of their chemo medications by stimulation Zu San Li and Neiguan pressure points simultaneously.
There are also reports that Zusanli activation also improves insulin sensitivity and cerebral blood flow (an effect mediated by nitric oxide), while it decreases sympathetic nerve activity and arterial pressure.2
How to Massage Zu San Li
To reap the various benefits of Zu San Li stimulation for yourself, you can massage the pressure point at home.
It is not advisable to perform these massages just before bedtime, as the stimulation of this pressure point tends to be energizing and may cause you insomnia. Each day when you wake up, set aside a few minutes to do the following:
- Locate the pressure point while seated comfortably
- Massage the area slowly, either with your fingers or by rubbing uncooked grains (such as buckwheat, oats or rice) against the area gently, using a clockwise motion
- Repeat this process on the opposite leg
You can also stimulate this pressure point by placing a peeled, halved garlic clove over the area and fixing it in place with gauze tape for an hour, or until the skin begins to redden.
Daily massage of Zu San Li is considered safe and even advisable. Try it out and see if this holds true for you!
Another Magical Pressure Point for Clearing a Stuffy Nose In 1 Minute
A runny nose can be just as annoying, even embarrassing, especially when you’re surrounded by people and all your attention is put on constantly blowing your nose and cleaning your face.
To deal with nasal congestion, most people reach for over-the-counter nasal sprays. But It’s much better to master an approach that is less invasive and, in many cases, more effective. The simple technique is based on acupressure. It uses gentle pressure to four points of the face to help you clear your nose. You can read about it in my article on how to clear a stuffy or runny nose In 1 minute.
How Reflexology Can Help You
Reflexology involves manipulation of the feet, and to a lesser degree, the hands and ears. Specific zones on the feet are said to correspond with various organs, glands, and body parts. There are a surprising amount of ways reflexology can help you live a healthier and happier life. Learn how to do reflexology at home to treat common ailments (including comprehensive charts).
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