LI5 (Yangxi / Yang Stream) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
LI5 Yangxi is a jing-river; fire point of the Large Intestine channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | LI5 — Yangxi (Yang Stream) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Large Intestine — Hand Yangming |
| Classification | Jing-River; Fire |
| Region | Radial wrist |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | In the anatomical snuffbox at the thumb-side wrist, between the extensor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons. |
Location of LI5 Yangxi
In the anatomical snuffbox at the thumb-side wrist, between the extensor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons.
Landmark sequence
- Support the hand with the thumb gently extended and abducted.
- Identify the two tendon borders forming the anatomical snuffbox.
- Palpate the hollow at wrist level.
- Assess local vessels and tenderness before choosing a technique.
Where a B-cun measurement is given, use the patient’s proportional body measurement. It is not a fixed centimetre distance or a universal number of the practitioner’s finger breadths. Confirm the relevant landmarks by palpation before deciding on a technique.
Distinguishing nearby points
LI5 is a thumb-side dorsal wrist point. LU9 lies on the palmar side and must not be used as a substitute landmark.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Clears Yangming Heat
- Activates the channel and benefits the wrist
- Benefits the throat
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for radial wrist pain and stiffness, and for selected Yangming-channel head, face or throat presentations. Point selection follows assessment of both local tissue and the wider pattern.
These descriptions express traditional theory. They are not claims that this individual point has been proven to prevent or cure a medical condition. A symptom or channel label alone is insufficient to select a treatment.
Planning a point combination
Consider the treatment principle, local versus distal selection and the patient’s complete presentation. Related Project Lotus guides for comparison include LI4, LI11. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
The radial artery crosses the floor of the snuffbox; superficial radial nerve branches and the cephalic vein are nearby. Avoid direct vessel or nerve injury.
- Inspect the skin and assess local tissue, circulation and sensation. Do not needle through infected, ulcerated, inflamed or otherwise unsuitable tissue.
- Review relevant surgery, injuries, implants, bleeding risk, medication, pregnancy and previous adverse reactions.
- Use sterile single-use needles, appropriate infection control and safe sharps disposal. Obtain informed consent and document the treatment.
- Choose angle, depth and stimulation from anatomical assessment and accredited training. This guide gives no universal insertion depth. Stop and reassess unexpected sharp pain, neurological symptoms or a concerning response.
When medical assessment takes priority
Snuffbox tenderness following a fall may indicate a scaphoid fracture and needs medical assessment. A hot, swollen wrist with fever also requires prompt assessment.
Moxibustion
Moxa is not an automatic addition. Consider the traditional pattern, local anatomy and the practitioner’s training. Where heat is appropriate, assess sensation, skin condition, ventilation and the patient’s ability to report discomfort; supervise continuously and prevent burns.
Research note
Evidence concerning an acupuncture treatment or a multi-point protocol cannot be assigned automatically to this point alone. This guide does not claim an independently established clinical effect for LI5. Traditional functions and clinical evidence should be discussed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is this point bilateral?
Yes. The surface landmarks apply on both sides. Treatment laterality depends on assessment and the chosen clinical strategy.
Can the image replace palpation?
No. The image shows the landmark relationship schematically. Body proportions, tendon visibility and tissue depth vary, so trained examination remains essential.
Is this a self-needling guide?
No. It is an educational reference for qualified practitioners and does not replace professional training or medical assessment.
Continue exploring Project Lotus
Browse our Acupuncture Point Guides and professional acupuncture needles.
Professional note: Educational material for qualified acupuncture practitioners. Individual assessment, consent, safe technique and appropriate referral remain the practitioner’s responsibility.
References: WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations, updated reprint 2009 (entry LI5); CEIMEC point atlas (cross-check; WHO takes precedence where descriptions differ); Joel Penner, American Dragon: traditional point reference; NCCIH: acupuncture evidence and safety. Checked 5 October 2026.
