Mainstream medicine is often criticized for focusing solely on symptoms and direct effects, but that’s not entirely accurate. In fact, the widespread awareness of side effects shows that doctors understand the body as a complex system. Most people associate side effects with something negative, yet there are also positive ones. For instance, when you follow your doctor’s advice to exercise, you may notice positive ripple effects, such as improved sleep, a better mood, and smoother digestion.
Similarly, beneficial “side effects” are the hallmark of activating acupoints. A good example is Shou San Li (Arm Three Miles, LI10), an acupoint on your forearm. Although its benefits might not seem directly related at first, its role along the Large Intestine meridian explains why it is helpful in various practical situations.
Classic Role
Shou San Li was first recorded in the “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing” (“The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion”). It belongs to the Large Intestine meridian, which is said to be rich in blood and qi. Due to its circulation-boosting effects, this point is often used in pain treatment. This ability to invigorate the meridian that extends all the way to the face makes Shou San Li one of the key points in facial and beauty acupuncture as well. Interestingly, the Yellow Emperor’s Canon also recommends using Shou San Li for lower back pain.
Practical Uses
Shou San Li is used to stimulate the relief of pain, numbness, and poor mobility in the arms. It is especially common for cases of chronic pain where symptoms extend from the shoulder to the hand. In beauty acupuncture, it helps improve blood and qi circulation, which in turn supports a healthy skin tone and complexion, resulting in a radiant, healthy glow.
Moreen Liao
R.Ph. of TCM (Taiwan)
Moreen was born into a family with a lineage of four generations of traditional Chinese medicine doctors and professors.
She was Dean of the Natural Therapies Institute in Sydney, Australia.
Drawing on her family heritage, she created a certified organic wellness brand, and co-founded the largest Chinese medical image encyclopedia online.
