Lung Meridian: Key to Immunity and Emotional Balance in TCM

The Lung meridian is the first of the twelve main meridians and is considered a Yin meridian. It plays a crucial role in governing the respiratory function and regulating water metabolism. The Lung meridian contains 11 acupuncture points and is associated with the Lung organ and its paired Large Intestine organ. The Lung meridian is a fundamental channel for receiving and distributing Qi, supporting immunity, and promoting emotional balance. Its pathway—from the middle jiao, through the lung organ, to the arm, and ending at the thumb—underscores its critical role in breathing, immune health, and Qi flow throughout the body. Understanding the Lung meridian allows practitioners to diagnose and treat conditions related to respiratory health, emotional well-being, and the proper circulation of Qi.

Topics:

Acupuncture Points of the Lung Meridian

Pathway of the Lung Meridian

Clinical Applications for Immunity and Emotional Balance

Functions of the Lung Meridian

The pathway of the Lung meridian is a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), deeply connected to immune function, emotional health, and the effective regulation of Qi throughout the body.

Lung Meridian Acupuncture Points

© Milos Vymazal lung channel points and path

• Lung 1 (Zhongfu)This is the first acupuncture point of the Lung meridian and is located in the lateral thorax, in the first intercostal space, 6 cun lateral to the midline. This point is considered the Mu (alarm) point of the Lung and is often used to treat respiratory issues like cough, asthma, and fullness of the chest.
• Lung 2 (Yunmen): Located just below the clavicle in the deltopectoral triangle, this acupuncture point is important for relieving cough and chest tightness.
• Lung 3 (Tianfu): This acupuncture point is located on the upper arm, 3 cun below the axillary fold, in the bicep groove. It is known for treating disorders of the Lung and also for its influence on emotional disturbances related to grief and sadness, which are traditionally associated with the Lung.
• Lung 4 (Xiabai): Located on the upper arm, 4 cun below the axillary fold, in the bicep groove. Lung 4 is used for regulating Lung Qi and alleviating pain.
• Lung 5 (Chize): Found at the cubital crease, on the radial side of the biceps brachii tendon. Lung 5 is a He-Sea point and has a powerful effect on clearing Lung heat and regulating water passages.
• Lung 6 (Kongzui): Found on the palmar aspect of the forearm, 7 cun above the wrist crease. Lung 6 is known as the Xi-Cleft point and is effective for acute conditions and for stopping bleeding.
• Lung 7 (Lieque): This acupuncture point is located proximal to the radial styloid process, between the tendons of the brachioradialis and abductor pollicis longus. Lung 7 is the Luo-Connecting point of the Lung, and it is particularly important for dispersing Lung Qi, alleviating pain, and treating disorders related to the head, neck, and chest.
• Lung 8 (Jingqu): Located 1 cun above the wrist crease on the radial side of the forearm. Lung 8 is the Jing-River point, which helps with cough, asthma, and throat disorders.
• Lung 9 (Taiyuan): This is the Shu-Stream, Yuan-Source, and influential acupuncture point of the vessels. It is located at the wrist crease, where the radial artery lies. Lung 9 is used for tonifying the Lung and treating chronic conditions, particularly when the Lung Qi is deficient.
• Lung 10 (Yuji): Found on the palmar aspect of the hand, at the midpoint of the first metacarpal bone. Lung 10 is useful for clearing Lung heat and benefits the throat.
• Lung 11 (Shaoshang): Located on the radial side of the thumb, approximately 0.1 cun from the corner of the nail. This acupuncture point is often used in emergency situations such as fainting and is effective for clearing heat, sore throat, and febrile diseases.

Pathway of the Lung Meridian

Internal Pathway

1. Origin and Internal Pathway
   
   • The Lung meridian originates internally in the middle jiao (middle burner), in the stomach region. From here, it descends to connect with the Large Intestine, reflecting the yin-yang relationship between the Lung and Large Intestine organs.
   • After connecting with the Large Intestine, the meridian ascends, passing through the diaphragm, and then it enters and connects with the Lung organ itself.
   • It continues to travel upwards to the throat, helping to regulate voice and respiration. The internal portion of the meridian reaches the larynx before descending towards the external pathway.

External Pathway

1. External Course: From Thorax to Thumb
   
   • The Lung meridian emerges externally from the chest area, specifically from a point near the first intercostal space, roughly 6 cun (a measurement relative to body size) lateral to the midline, just under the clavicle.
   • From this point, it moves laterally, traversing along the anterior-lateral aspect of the arm. It follows along the anterolateral aspect of the upper arm, descending to the elbow crease. Along this pathway, the meridian passes by the deltopectoral groove.
   • It then continues downward along the anterolateral aspect of the forearm, traveling towards the wrist. At this point, the Lung meridian lies in the radial area of the wrist, near the pulse point, which is often palpated in TCM diagnosis.
   • The meridian finally reaches the thenar eminence, or the base of the thumb, and ends at the radial side of the thumb, specifically at the tip of the thumb at Lung 11 (LU-11).

Clinical Applications of Lung Meridian Treatments

• Respiratory Conditions: The Lung meridian is directly involved in the treatment of conditions like asthma, bronchitis, chest congestion, and cough. Points like LU-1 and LU-5 are frequently used for respiratory support.
• Skin Issues: Because the Lung is associated with the skin, the Lung meridian is often used to treat skin conditions like eczema and rashes, using points such as LU-7.
• Emotional Distress: Acupuncture points along the Lung meridian, such as LU-3, can help in managing emotional distress, specifically for patients struggling with unresolved grief or sadness.

Functions of the Lung Meridian

The Lung meridian plays a crucial role in the dissemination and descent of Qi, which is essential for healthy respiration. It is associated with the skin and hair, which are referred to as the “tissues” of the Lung. The Lung also controls Wei Qi (defensive Qi), which is responsible for protecting the body from external pathogens, including wind-cold and wind-heat. The Lung meridian, by passing through the throat, influences voice production and regulates both coughing and breathing.

Emotionally, the Lung meridian is associated with the emotion of grief. When the Lung is imbalanced, symptoms of sadness or an inability to process grief may arise. Through the pathway, acupuncturists can stimulate specific points to regulate emotional states and strengthen the Lung’s physical functions, such as by clearing phlegm, dispersing external pathogenic factors, and boosting immune response.

Why is the Lung Meridian called the “Prime Minister”? In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Lung is often referred to as the “Prime Minister” because of its crucial role in overseeing and regulating the flow of Qi (vital energy) and maintaining order within the body. In TCM, the body’s vital functions are often described in political terms, where each organ has its own role akin to roles in a governing body. The Lung is responsible for governing Qi and respiration, similar to how a prime minister manages the functions of the state. It distributes Wei Qi (defensive Qi) throughout the body, which protects against external pathogens. The Heart is considered the “Emperor” that directs the spirit (Shen), while the Lung as the “Prime Minister” implements the directives, ensuring that everything is coordinated, much like distributing energy and resources throughout the body. This analogy helps illustrate the vital regulatory role of the Lung in maintaining balance and supporting other organs.

Relationship with Other Meridians

The Lung meridian is paired with the Large Intestine meridian, and together they form an essential part of the metal element in the Five Element theory. The Lung meridian’s external path interacts with other important meridians, such as the Heart meridian, which runs along the inner aspect of the arm, and the Stomach meridian, which originates from the facial region and the thorax.

Lung-Large Intestine Relationship

• Yin-Yang Pairing: The Lung (Yin) and Large Intestine (Yang) work in tandem to regulate respiration and elimination. This pairing ensures that fluids are distributed appropriately throughout the body and that wastes are efficiently eliminated.
• The meridian pathway connections between the Lung and Large Intestine emphasize the close functional relationship, where imbalances in the Lung meridian may manifest as digestive issues, while intestinal dysfunction may in turn affect respiratory health. 

How Do the Lungs Connect the Mind to the Body via Breathing in TCM?

In TCM, the Lungs play a vital role in connecting the mind and body through the process of breathing, which directly impacts the state of Qi. Breathing is not only a physical process but also a deeply spiritual and emotional act that influences mental states and emotional health.

• Lung and Shen (Mind/Spirit): The Lungs have a connection to Shen, the “spirit” or “consciousness,” often housed in the Heart. The smooth, rhythmic act of breathing helps regulate the emotional state, promoting mental clarity and tranquility. Controlled, deep breathing enriches the body’s Qi and nourishes the Heart, thereby calming Shen and fostering emotional stability.
• Po (Corporeal Soul): The Lung is also closely linked to Po (魄), which is the corporeal soul—the aspect of consciousness that is bound to the physical body. Unlike Shen, which is spiritual, Po is more connected to the body’s instincts and emotions. Through the breath, the Lungs regulate Po, which allows emotions to be processed and grounded in the physical experience. Thus, controlled breathing helps balance emotional responses and provides a stable base for handling stress.
• Breath and Qi Circulation: Breath is the mechanism through which we draw in Heavenly Qi (air), which combines with the Gu Qi (food essence) produced by the Spleen to form the body’s Zong Qi (gathering Qi). This dynamic supports not just the physical function of respiration but also the circulation of Qi throughout the meridians, impacting both physical and mental well-being.

How Are the Lungs in a Foremost Position to Fight Pathogenic Diseases?

The Lungs are in the foremost position to fight pathogenic factors because they are the first organ in direct contact with the external environment through the respiratory system. Here’s why they are so crucial in defending the body:

• Wei Qi (Defensive Qi): The Lungs play a vital role in the formation and distribution of Wei Qi, which is the body’s first line of defense against external pathogenic factors like wind, cold, dampness, or heat. Wei Qi circulates just beneath the skin and protects the body by resisting and repelling these external influences. Since the Lungs are responsible for dispersing Wei Qi across the skin and exterior, their health is fundamental to maintaining the body’s defenses.
• Regulating the Skin and Pores: The Lungs control the skin and pores, which act as the body’s barrier to the external environment. The opening and closing of the pores help to either release internal heat or protect against the entry of external pathogens. If the Lung Qi is weak, this function is compromised, making the body more susceptible to colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.
• Qi Flow and Pathogen Prevention: The lung meridian pathway plays a direct role in regulating Qi flow throughout the body, maintaining harmony, and ensuring that the meridians remain free of stagnation. This circulation is crucial in keeping the body’s immune responses active and capable of confronting external pathogenic threats as soon as they are detected.

How Does an Imbalance in Lung Energy Create Anxiety, Depression, and Feelings of Grief?

An imbalance in Lung energy can profoundly impact emotional well-being, contributing to feelings of anxiety, depression, and grief. In TCM, the Lungs are particularly susceptible to emotional disturbances, as they govern both the physical and the emotional aspectsof respiration and connectedness.

• Grief and Sadness (Beì, 悲): The emotion associated with the Lungs in TCM is grief or sadness, referred to as “Beì” (悲). This term can also be translated as “sorrow” or “mourning,” reflecting a deep feeling of loss. Etymologically, the character 悲 suggests sadness that arises from deep within, affecting the physical and emotional aspects of being. Grief is said to “knot” the Lung Qi, impeding its natural flow, and leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, a feeling of tightness in the chest, fatigue, and melancholy.
• Emotional Pathology: When the Lung Qi is not flowing smoothly or becomes deficient, it can manifest as anxiety and depression. The inability of the Lungs to properly disperse and descend Qi leads to a sense of stagnation or oppression in the chest. This stagnation, in turn, can provoke feelings of restlessness or a sense of being overwhelmed. A lack of proper Qi flow may also cause feelings of disconnection, making it difficult for individuals to release grief or to feel inspired and motivated.
• Lung Deficiency and Depression: A deficiency in Lung Qi often correlates with depressive symptoms, where an individual feels tired, unmotivated, and prone to melancholy. The Lungs’ connection to the Po means that unresolved grief or sadness can linger in the body, leading to a chronic emotional state that manifests as depression. When the Lung Qi is weak, it becomes harder to “let go” of emotional burdens, contributing to ongoing sadness and emotional weight.
• Impact on Breath and Mind: As breathing is one of the most fundamental ways to regulate both Qi and emotional state, poor lung function can directly lead to a reduced ability to calm the mind. Shallow, erratic breathing associated with poor Lung Qi exacerbates anxiety, whereas smooth, deep breaths nourish the Lungs and help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and fear.

Overall, the Lungs in TCM are not just involved in respiration but are also deeply integrated with our emotional health. When functioning well, the Lungs facilitate proper breathing, allowing emotional expression and the smooth release of grief. When impaired, this can lead to feelings of emotional stagnation, such as prolonged grief, sadness, anxiety, and depression, which directly impact overall health and well-being.