How often do you clean your house? Floors might get swept or vacuumed daily, while windows or the air conditioning filters are cleaned only occasionally. However, less frequent doesn’t mean less important. These behind-the-scenes tasks are still essential.
That’s the principle behind the acupoint, Second Space (Er Jian, LI2). Located on your index finger, it plays a supporting role in clearing and maintaining the body’s internal environment thanks to its special role among the acupoints of the Large Intestine meridian.
What the Classic Texts Say
Er Jian was first documented in the “Ling Shu” (“Spiritual Pivot”). It is classified as a Ying-Spring acupoint. Ying-Spring points are positioned near the ends of the fingers and toes, just behind the more potent Jing-Well points. They primarily help clear heat and toxins along their respective meridians or energy pathways. For the Large Intestine meridian, this is especially relevant because one of its main jobs is to eliminate waste from the body. These unique qualities secure Er Jian’s supportive role in various treatment protocols.
Er Jian is also connected to water, an element with downward-moving energy in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory. It allows Er Jian to address the symptoms that “move downward.” Additionally, since the large intestine meridian extends to the head, Er Jian can be applied in treatment protocols addressing issues in that region, especially those related to fluids.
Practical Functions and Applications
In line with the TCM principle of treating symptoms along the meridian’s pathway, Er Jian is used to address blurred vision, nosebleeds, dry mouth, and sore throat. Because it’s located on the Large Intestine meridian, Er Jian can also manage chronic digestive problems, such as mild diarrhea that often occurs in the early morning and does not respond well to standard treatments.
Evidence From Research
While direct research on Er Jian is limited, two modern studies highlight its supportive role in treatment protocols.
A review of ancient acupuncture prescriptions for facial paralysis identified Er Jian among the points most frequently chosen for treatment, although it was not a primary point. It was included as part of point groupings with Shuigou (GV26), Dicang (ST4), Jiache (ST6), Hegu (LI4), and Fengchi (GB20).
A pilot study explored whether laser acupuncture at several points, including Er Jian, could improve saliva production in women with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune condition causing dry mouth and eyes. The group receiving true laser acupuncture had significantly increased saliva during and after treatment, with effects lasting up to three months.
How to Locate and Stimulate Er Jian
Er Jian is found at the base of the index finger, on the side closest to the thumb. To locate it, start by identifying the knuckle’s bony bump (the second metacarpophalangeal joint). Move your finger a little toward the tip of your index finger until you feel a small depression at the joint, roughly in the middle of the finger. Gently press around this spot. If you feel soreness or tenderness, you have likely found the correct point. These sensations can become more noticeable if there is an energetic blockage or if your body is healing from a related issue.
Ways to Stimulate Er Jian
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each hand.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each hand.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture or moxibustion—a gentle heat therapy using dried mugwort—by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Avoid stimulating Er Jian if you have any injuries in the area. If using herbal patches, opt for products free of harsh artificial ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.
A Point With Targeted Purpose
While Er Jian might not be your go-to acupressure point every day, it’s a secret weapon for targeted self-care. Think of it as giving your body a tune-up, just like you would for your home—occasional attention goes a long way. By activating Er Jian, you help keep your internal systems humming along, and regular check-ins with this point can help prevent issues from piling up in your large intestine. Sometimes, the smartest self-care is simply staying ahead with a little maintenance.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
