Airways / Respiratory — Cough
BL 13 Bladder 13 (BL13) – Feishu, Lung Shu
Feishu is used to support breathing, strengthen the immune system, and help with respiratory disorders.
Bladder 13 (BL13), also known as Feishu, is an important acupuncture point for supporting lung function in horses.
BL13 is located on both sides of the spine, at the level of the third thoracic vertebra, about a hand’s width lateral to the midline.
Feishu is used to support breathing, strengthen the immune system, and help with respiratory disorders.
Treatment of this point should be performed carefully to avoid stressing or injuring the horse.
Location BL13 is located in the intercostal space at the level of the third thoracic vertebra, 1.5 cun lateral to the dorsal midline.
Functions BL13 tonifies Lung Qi, disperses Wind and Heat, and is used for cough, asthma, and immune deficiency.
Safety When needling BL13, pay attention to depth and direction to avoid pneumothorax.
CV 17 Conception Vessel 17 (CV17) – Shanzhong, Chest Center
This point is used to support breathing, relieve stress, and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
Conception Vessel 17 (Ren17), also known as Shanzhong, is located in the middle of the chest and is an important acupuncture point for breathing and emotional balance in horses.
Ren17 is located on the midline of the chest, approximately at the level of the fourth intercostal space, between the two forelimbs.
This point is used to support breathing, relieve stress, and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
This point should be used with care as it is located near the sternum. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location Ren17 is located on the ventral midline, at the level of the fourth intercostal space, directly above the sternum, between the insertions of the pectoral muscles.
Functions Ren17 regulates thoracic Qi, supports lung function, calms the heart, and is used for dyspnea, cough, anxiety, and thoracic tension.
Safety Caution in horses with thoracic injuries or cardiac issues. Avoid deep stimulation to prevent thoracic injury.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4) – Hegu, Union Valley
LI4 is traditionally used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system. It can also help with issues in the head region.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4), also known as Hegu, is a key acupuncture point on the horse’s forelimb. It is commonly used to support the immune system and relieve pain.
LI4 is located on the medial forelimb, between the second and third metacarpal bones, near the fetlock joint.
LI4 is traditionally used for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and boosting the immune system. It can also help with issues in the head region.
LI4 should not be used in pregnant mares as it may induce contractions. Application should always be performed by an experienced professional.
Location LI4 is located distally and medially on the forelimb, in the depression between the second and third metacarpal bones, at the level of the fetlock joint.
Functions LI4 is a Yuan-source point, used for treating pain, inflammation, fever, and for immunomodulation. It affects disorders of the head, teeth, and skin.
Safety Contraindicated in pregnancy due to its labor-inducing effect. Use caution in debilitated or very young animals.
Lung 1 (LU1) – Zhong Fu, Central Treasury
LU1 is used to strengthen the lungs, relieve coughing, and make breathing easier.
Lung 1 (LU1), also known as Zhong Fu, is an important point on the lung meridian and is often used to support the respiratory system in horses.
LU1 is located on the chest, just below the scapula, in the first intercostal space.
LU1 is used to strengthen the lungs, relieve coughing, and make breathing easier.
LU1 should only be treated by experienced individuals, as it is located near the chest and sensitive structures.
Location LU1 is located in the first intercostal space, medial to the shoulder, at the junction of the lateral and ventral thorax, usually palpable in a depression.
Functions LU1 is used to treat lung diseases, acute and chronic respiratory disorders, thoracic pain, and to strengthen Wei Qi.
Safety Caution is required when needling LU1 due to its proximity to the lungs and major vessels, increasing the risk of pneumothorax or hematoma.
Lung 5 (LU5) – Chi Ze, Cubit Marsh
LU5 is used to support lung function, for cough, and to relieve heat in the body.
Lung 5 (LU5), also known as Chi Ze, is an important acupuncture point located at the horse’s elbow. It is often used for respiratory issues.
LU5 is located in the elbow crease, on the inside of the forelimb, just in front of the biceps tendon.
LU5 is used to support lung function, for cough, and to relieve heat in the body.
This point should be treated carefully as it is close to sensitive structures. Please use only under supervision or by a professional.
Location LU5 is located in the elbow crease, medially, in the depression between the distal end of the humerus and the tendon of the biceps brachii muscle.
Functions LU5 clears heat from the Lung meridian, promotes the descent of Lung Qi, relieves cough, and supports both acute and chronic respiratory conditions.
Safety Caution when needling, as LU5 is close to the cephalic vein and median nerve. Use aseptic technique and precise localization.
Lung 7 (LU7) – Lie Que, Broken Sequence
LU7 is used to support the lungs, for cough, respiratory diseases, and to strengthen the immune system. It can also help with skin issues.
Lung 7 (LU7), also known as Lie Que, is an important acupuncture point on the horse’s forelimb. It is often used to support the respiratory system and strengthen immunity.
LU7 is located on the forelimb, about 1.5 cun above the carpus, slightly in front of the splint bone. It is often palpable as a small depression.
LU7 is used to support the lungs, for cough, respiratory diseases, and to strengthen the immune system. It can also help with skin issues.
LU7 should only be treated by trained individuals, as improper use can cause pain or injury. Carefully observe the horse during and after treatment.
Location LU7 is located proximal and medial to the styloid process of the radius, about 1.5 cun proximal to the carpus, in the groove between the tendon of the abductor pollicis longus and the radius.
Functions LU7 opens the Ren Mai, deepens respiration, treats wind-cold, enhances defensive Qi, and is used for cough, asthma, nasal discharge, and skin disorders.
Safety Caution with local lesions or infections. Do not use in cases of fractures or acute inflammation in the area. Maintain aseptic technique.
ST 40 Stomach 40 (ST40) – Ankle/instep
ST40 is traditionally used to help with phlegm accumulation, coughing, and to support metabolism.
Stomach 40 (ST40), also known as 'ankle front' or 'withers', is an important acupuncture point in horses, often used to support metabolism and address phlegm-related issues.
ST40 is located on the outer hind limb, about halfway between the stifle and the hock, slightly in front of the tibia.
ST40 is traditionally used to help with phlegm accumulation, coughing, and to support metabolism.
Treatment of this point should be done carefully, as improper use may cause discomfort. Always consult a professional if unsure.
Location ST40 is located on the Stomach meridian, lateral side of the hind limb, 8 cun proximal to the lateral malleolus, between the peroneus longus and extensor digitorum longus muscles.
Functions ST40 is the primary point for transforming phlegm, used in respiratory and metabolic disorders, and to support spleen function.
Safety Special caution is advised in sensitive or nervous horses. Deep or repeated needling may cause local irritation.