7 Acupressure Points for Gas and Bloating
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Time to read 8 min
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Time to read 8 min
Feeling bloated and gassy can be more than just uncomfortable. It can disrupt your day and leave you searching for relief. Did you know that acupressure points for bloating and gas can offer a natural solution?
This guide covers seven powerful acupressure points that can help ease these symptoms. You'll learn how to locate and stimulate these points effectively. We'll also touch on the science behind acupressure and its benefits, as well as any precautions you should consider.
Intrigued by this ancient technique? Keep reading to discover how simple pressure points might be the key to your digestive comfort. Let's explore how you can take control and find relief today.
The following acupressure points have been proven to be extremely effective in reducing gas and bloating. Stimulating the pressure points involves applying firm pressure and massaging the various points.
Follow these steps for each acupressure treatment:
Find a comfortable, quiet spot. Sit or lie down depending on ease of reaching the pressure points.
Identify the point between your thumb and index finger.
Press firmly on the point with your thumb or index finger for 5 seconds, then release. Repeat for 2-3 minutes in gentle circular motions.
Take deep, slow breaths while pressing.
Perform several times daily if needed.
For other stomach-related pain, read more about other pressure points that can help reduce stomach issues in our comprehensive article, Pressure Points for Stomachache.
ST 36 Aspect |
Details |
Location |
About 3 inches below your kneecap, 1 inch toward the outer edge of your leg. Part of the stomach meridian |
Benefits of Stimulation |
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Tips for Improved Experience |
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SP 6 Aspect |
Details |
Location |
Three finger-widths above your inner ankle bone on the spleen meridian |
Benefits of Stimulation |
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Tip for Improved Experience |
When you press on SP 6, breathe deeply. Take a deep breath in through your nose and let your belly rise. Then slowly breathe out through your mouth. |
CV 6 Aspect |
Details |
Location |
About 1.5 inches or 2-3 finger widths below your belly button; known as the "Sea of Energy." |
Benefits of Stimulation |
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Tip for Improved Experience |
Use the base of your palm if you’re sensitive, like elders or pregnant individuals |
CV 12 Aspect |
Details |
Location |
On the center line of your belly about four fingers above your belly button; called "Zhongwan" in Chinese. |
Benefits of Stimulation |
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Tip for Improved Experience |
Focus on your breath to improve the relaxation response, making the acupressure more effective in relieving gas and bloating |
B 21 Aspect |
Details |
Location |
About 6 inches above the small of the back and 1.5 inches out from the spine on each side. Found on the bladder meridian. |
Benefits of Stimulation |
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Tip for Improved Experience |
Avoid pressing too hard, especially if sensitive or with conditions like a slipped disk |
LI 4 Aspect |
Details |
Location |
Between the thumb and index finger, in the fleshy part at the base of the second metacarpal bone |
Benefits of Stimulation |
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Tip for Improved Experience |
Use a warm compress on the abdomen to relax beforehand |
ST 25 Aspect |
Details |
Location |
On your abdomen, about two finger widths to the side of your belly button |
Benefits of Stimulation |
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Tip for Improved Experience |
Use gentle, steady pressure to avoid discomfort when stimulating the ST25 |
Yes, gas and bloating can be relieved by acupressure on different pressure points on the body. They can help reduce discomfort and ease stomach pain. One study showed relief from gas, bloating, and constipation in patients ( source ).
Acupressure is a great way to tackle bloating and gas at home. By pressing on certain points, you can help ease these uncomfortable feelings. Here's how it works and why it might be just what you need:
Feel Better Fast - Pressing on specific spots can help you feel relief from gas and bloating. Research shows this technique can improve how your bowels work and help get rid of gas.
Backed by Research - Some studies support acupressure's benefits. For instance, one study found that hemodialysis patients felt less gas and had better bowel function after four weeks of acupressure. Another study showed that people who did acupressure on themselves saw less constipation, gas, and bloating.
Energy Flow - Acupressure comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM believes that pressing certain points helps your "qi" or energy move better, which can relieve digestive problems.
Safe and Easy - You can do acupressure yourself, and it's usually safe. However, if you're pregnant or have health issues like bleeding disorders, it's best to talk to a doctor first.
While more research is needed to fully understand how acupressure helps with bloating and gas, current studies show it's a useful extra method. It could help you feel more comfortable, improve how your bowels work, and make your digestion better overall.
Acupressure is a mostly safe way to help with gas and bloating, but you should know about some risks before you start. Here are key things to consider:
Chronic Conditions - If you deal with long-term pain or bleeding issues, talk to your doctor first. Some acupressure points might make things worse for recurring medical conditions.
Pregnancy - Be cautious if you're pregnant. Certain points can trigger contractions and might start labor. It's smart to get medical advice before using acupressure.
Pressure Sensitivity - Using too much pressure can hurt or bruise, especially on sensitive spots. Apply firm but gentle pressure.
Injuries - Avoid acupressure on hurt areas, like a slipped disk, as it could worsen the injury or pain.
Learning from Experts - It's great to learn acupressure from a certified practitioner, especially if you're new. They can teach you the best methods and help keep you safe.
Research - Some studies suggest acupressure helps with digestion, but we need more research to fully understand its benefits and risks.
By remembering these tips, you can safely use acupressure to help with gas and bloating.
If you want to try other home remedies for gas and bloating relief, there are some things you can do:
Here are some effective home remedies to relieve bloating and gas:
Feeling bloated or gassy can be a real pain. Changing what you eat might help. Here's how you can do it:
Eat Fiber-Rich Foods - Foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains help your digestion. They also prevent constipation, which can cause bloating and gas.
Stay Hydrated - Water aids digestion and flushes out toxins. This can help reduce gas in your intestines.
Eat Smaller Meals - Smaller, more frequent meals can stop you from overeating. This helps reduce gas and bloating.
Take Probiotics and Prebiotics - They support gut health by promoting good bacteria. This can improve digestion and cut down on bloating.
Identify and Eliminate Food Intolerances - If you notice certain foods that make you uncomfortable, like dairy or gluten, identify and eliminate these food intolerances. Avoiding them can help ease gas and bloating.
Eat slowly - Taking your time while eating can cut down on the air you swallow. This can help prevent gas.
Try Ginger Tea - Ginger is great for digestion and can relieve symptoms of indigestion and nausea.
Limit Your Caffeine - Caffeine can stimulate digestion and may lead to bloating. Consider cutting back on caffeinated drinks.
Want to know how to cut down on that gassy discomfort? Here are some lifestyle tips to feel better and improve your overall health:
Exercise Regularly - Activities like walking or yoga can stimulate digestion and relieve gas.
Try Abdominal Massage - Gently massaging your belly can promote bowel movement and help release trapped gas.
Avoid Chewing Gum and Using Straws - Both can make you swallow extra air, leading to bloating.
Choose Non-Carbonated Drinks - Carbonated beverages add gas to your digestive system. Opt for still water instead.
You can also try some simple remedies at home to ease gas and bloating. Here are a few ideas you might find helpful:
Drink Herbal Teas - Herbal teas like peppermint and chamomile can soothe your digestive tract. They can help reduce bloating.
Try Apple Cider Vinegar - Dilute a tablespoon in water and drink it before meals. This may help prevent gas and bloating.
Consider Activated Charcoal - Activated charcoal can absorb excess gas in your digestive system. Use it carefully and under guidance.
By using these home remedies, you can manage and reduce symptoms of bloating and gas. It may even help with other digestive issues. If symptoms continue, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
There are multiple pressure points for gas relief, and these are:
Stomach 36 or Zusanli
Spleen 6 or Sanyinjiao
Conception Vessel 6 or Qihai
Conception Vessel 12 or Zhongwan
Bladder 21 or Weishu
Large Intestine 4 or Hegu
Stomach 25 or Tian Shu
Among the ways to self-release gas include:
Walking around
Giving yourself a gentle self-massage
Drinking warm water
Sources: