We’re often taught to view the body as the reason for our physical problems and to seek solutions outside ourselves. However, what if the solution to the issues, at least some of them, is already in your body? More specifically, tucked inside the crease of your elbow.
Cubit Marsh (Chi Ze, LU5) is an acupoint that invites you to rethink healing by recognizing your body as an active player in recovery. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a framework that connects Chi Ze to lung health, clear skin, and more.
Classical Perspective on Chi Ze
Chi Ze was first documented in the “Ling Shu” (“Spiritual Pivot”), a foundational text of acupuncture therapy and traditional Chinese medicine. It is classified as the He Sea point of the Lung meridian and is associated with the water element. Think of the Lung meridian as a river carrying qi, your vital energy. Chi Ze is the place where the river deepens, allowing energy to flow more effectively into the body’s internal organs. Because of this, Chi Ze is especially effective at regulating the Lung meridian and directing energy to where it is most needed.
What Chi Ze Can Help With
Chi Ze is often referred to as the “guardian angel of the lungs” because it helps clear blockages and remove excess heat throughout the Lung meridian. This point is frequently used for issues ranging from mild sore throats to asthma and persistent coughs. TCM practitioners also rely on Chi Ze to address heat-related conditions like tidal and afternoon fevers, and even infantile convulsions.
In TCM, the lungs are closely linked to the skin, so Chi Ze’s ability to disperse excess water makes it useful for managing edema, especially in the upper body. Additionally, this point is effective for reducing skin issues caused by internal heat, such as rashes, redness, or inflammation.
On a local level, Chi Ze can also be used to relieve pain and inflammation around the elbow, including conditions like tennis elbow.
Scientific Insights
Modern studies are beginning to investigate how Chi Ze works from a biological standpoint, and the early findings are promising.
One animal study examined how electroacupuncture at Chi Ze affected rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The researchers found that COPD led to abnormal blood flow and elevated inflammatory markers in the gut. Electroacupuncture at Chi Ze helped slow this abnormal blood flow and significantly reduced levels of VIP, a neuropeptide involved in inflammation, in the hypothalamus. These findings suggest Chi Ze could play a role in regulating gut-lung interactions and calming nervous system responses in chronic lung disease.
Another review looked at acupressure for cancer-related lymphedema and identified Chi Ze as one of the most commonly used points. The review found improvements in limb swelling, inflammation, and overall quality of life, with many of the treatments performed by patients themselves or by trained nurses. Although more rigorous trials are needed, the trend suggests that Chi Ze may be a promising self-care tool in supportive therapies.
How to Locate and Activate Chi Ze
To locate Chi Ze, bend your elbow slightly. You’ll find the point at the elbow crease, on the thumb side of the tendon of the biceps brachii muscle. Gently press around that area until you feel a sore or tender spot. These sensations signal that you’ve successfully found the acupoint. Noticeable soreness or a dull ache usually indicates that your body is dealing with an energetic blockage or is healing from an illness.
How to Self-Activate Chi Ze
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture, cupping, or scraping (gua sha) should be performed by a trained professional.
Precautions
Avoid stimulating this area if you have a recent injury around the elbow. If you’re using herbal patches, choose gentle formulations, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
Why Include Chi Ze in Your Wellness Toolkit?
If someone around you is battling a seasonal flu with fever, nasal congestion, and a nagging cough, Chi Ze is a helpful point to remember. It can also serve as a preventive measure for those whose lungs are under constant strain, whether due to past illnesses, polluted environments, or chronic exposure to pathogens. Chi Ze offers a holistic way to support your lungs and care for your skin by harnessing your body’s natural healing power.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
