LV3 – Taichong (Great Rushing)
A key acupressure point for stress, emotional balance, and the smooth flow of Qi
LV3 (Taichong) is one of the most important acupuncture and acupressure points in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It belongs to the Liver meridian and is widely used to regulate the flow of Qi, calm the mind, and relieve tension throughout the body.
This point is particularly famous for treating conditions related to stress, emotional imbalance, headaches, and digestive disturbances.
LV3 is also part of one of the most well-known acupuncture combinations: “The Four Gates” (LI4 + LV3), used to strongly move Qi and Blood throughout the body.
Location of LV3 (Taichong)
LV3 is located on the top of the foot, between the first and second toes.
How to find it:
- Place your finger between the big toe and the second toe.
- Slide your finger upward along the space between the bones.
- Stop where the two metatarsal bones meet.
- The point is located in a small depression before the bones join.
When pressed, the point is often slightly tender, which helps confirm the correct location.
Meaning of the Name “Taichong”
In Chinese:
太冲 (Tài Chōng)
- 太 (Tài) – great, supreme
- 冲 (Chōng) – rushing, surge of energy
The name “Great Rushing” refers to the powerful movement of Liver Qi that this point can stimulate.
In TCM theory, the Liver is responsible for ensuring the smooth flow of Qi and emotions, and LV3 is one of the most effective points for restoring that balance.
Meridian Association
LV3 belongs to the Liver Meridian (Foot Jueyin Liver Channel).
The Liver meridian travels from the foot upward through the legs and into the lower abdomen and chest, influencing many functions including:
- emotional regulation
- digestion
- menstrual health
- circulation of Qi
Because the Liver is strongly connected with stress and emotional tension, LV3 is commonly used in treatments addressing Qi stagnation.
If you are interested in reading more about Liver Meridian you can do it here: https://tcm-qidao.com/2025/06/15/the-liver-in-traditional-chinese-medicine-a-vital-organ-for-balance-and-harmony/
Main Benefits of LV3
Stress and Emotional Balance
LV3 is one of the most frequently used points to relieve stress, irritability, and emotional tension.
It may help with:
- anxiety
- frustration
- mood swings
- feeling emotionally “stuck”
In TCM terms, these symptoms are often associated with Anger and Liver Qi stagnation.
If you are interested in what emotions can do to your Liver check this: https://tcm-qidao.com/2025/06/28/the-impact-of-anger-on-your-body-a-traditional-chinese-medicine-perspective/
Headaches and Migraines
LV3 is often used to relieve headaches, particularly those associated with:
- stress
- tension
- rising Liver Yang
Because the Liver channel connects to the head, stimulating LV3 can help reduce pressure and improve circulation.
If you are interested in reading more about headache relief you can do it here: https://acupressure-guide.com/2026/04/27/headache-relief-pressure-points-beginners-guide-to-acupressure/
Digestive Support
When Liver Qi becomes stagnant, it can affect the digestive system.
LV3 is sometimes used to help with:
- bloating
- abdominal discomfort
- irregular digestion
- stress-related digestive issues
More about digestive issues can be found here: https://tcm-qidao.com/2025/05/17/digestive-issues-and-acupuncture-finding-relief/
Hormonal and Menstrual Health
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Liver plays a major role in regulating the menstrual cycle.
LV3 may be used to support:
- menstrual cramps
- irregular cycles
- PMS symptoms
How to Stimulate LV3 (Acupressure)
You can stimulate LV3 yourself using simple acupressure techniques.
Step-by-step method
- Locate the point between the first and second toes.
- Use your thumb to apply steady pressure.
- Massage the point in slow circular motions.
- Continue for 30–60 seconds.
- Repeat on the other foot.
A mild aching or heavy sensation is normal and indicates activation of the point.
The Famous “Four Gates” Combination
One of the most powerful acupuncture combinations in TCM is known as “The Four Gates.”
It combines:
- LI4 – Hegu (on the hand)
- LV3 – Taichong (on the foot)
Together these points help:
- move stagnant Qi
- relieve stress
- improve circulation of Qi and Blood
- reduce pain
This combination is frequently used for stress, headaches, and emotional tension.
Safety Considerations
LV3 is generally considered safe for acupressure when applied with moderate pressure.
However, as with many strong points:
- avoid excessive pressure
- discontinue if sharp pain occurs
- consult a professional practitioner for chronic conditions
Why LV3 Is One of the Most Important Liver Meridian Points
Among the many points on the Liver meridian, LV3 is considered one of the most influential and versatile.
Practitioners value it because it:
- strongly moves Liver Qi
- helps regulate emotions and stress
- is effective for headaches and tension
- pairs well with many other acupuncture points
For this reason, LV3 is one of the core points taught in acupuncture and acupressure training.
Key Takeaways
- LV3 (Taichong) is located on the top of the foot between the first and second toes.
- It belongs to the Liver meridian.
- The point is widely used for stress, emotional balance, headaches, and digestion.
- It is part of the famous “Four Gates” combination with LI4.
- LV3 helps restore the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body.
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