Some health issues scream for urgent medical attention. Others whisper. A sore throat or sudden hoarseness may not be severe enough to send you to the doctor, but they can still make you feel miserable. Most people reach for a hot drink and hope for the best. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), there’s another easy and natural remedy for such discomfort: the acupoint Tian Ding (Celestial Tripod). Located right on the neck, it can help bring relief and address a wide range of issues.
Ancient Origins
Tian Ding was first recorded in “The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,” the oldest surviving TCM text. It belongs to the Large Intestine meridian, which travels from the index finger up the arm, shoulder, and neck, ending at the face. Because this meridian, or energy pathway, carries abundant qi and blood, its acupoints can affect many structures along its path.Tian Ding is especially known for supporting the throat as it is directly along this meridian route. Following one of the key rules of acupuncture, Tian Ding treats the issues in its vicinity, which makes it a good acupoint to consider for those minor but frustrating throat problems that don’t quite require a medical visit.
