Acupressure for Sore Throat: What Works and How to Do It Right

A sore throat can turn your day upside down, making it difficult to eat, talk, or even rest comfortably. Whether caused by seasonal allergies, a cold, or just overuse of your voice, throat discomfort can feel relentless. But what if there was a natural, drug-free way to find relief—one you could do anytime, anywhere?

Welcome to acupressure for sore throat—a time-tested healing practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that’s now gaining popularity as a soothing, side-effect-free remedy. If you're tired of throat lozenges and want a holistic, hands-on solution, this guide is for you.

What Is Acupressure and How Does It Help a Sore Throat?

Acupressure is a healing technique that uses the fingers (instead of needles) to stimulate specific pressure points on the body. These points lie along energy channels, or meridians, used in acupuncture. When pressure is applied correctly, it helps restore balance, improve circulation, and encourage the body’s natural healing process.

When it comes to sore throats, acupressure can:

  • Reduce inflammation and swelling

  • Soothe irritated throat tissue

  • Stimulate immune function

  • Relieve associated symptoms like coughing, congestion, and fatigue

While it’s not a magic bullet, acupressure can accelerate recovery and provide much-needed comfort, especially when combined with rest, hydration, and other natural remedies.

Best Acupressure Points for Sore Throat Relief

Here are five key acupressure points to focus on when you feel that scratchy, painful throat coming on:

1. LI4 – Hegu (Joining Valley)

  • Location: On the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger.

  • How it helps: LI4 is a powerful point for relieving pain and inflammation, especially in the face and throat. It also boosts the immune response.

  • How to apply: Use your thumb to press and massage this point in a circular motion for 30–60 seconds on each hand.

Tip: Avoid LI4 if you’re pregnant, as it can stimulate uterine contractions.

2. LU10 – Yuji (Fish Border)

  • Location: On the palm side of your hand, at the base of the thumb.

  • How it helps: This point is associated with the lung meridian, making it ideal for treating sore throat, cough, and dryness in the mouth.

  • How to apply: Press gently using the tip of your opposite thumb and massage for about 1 minute per hand.

3. LI18 – Futu (Support the Prominence)

  • Location: On the side of the neck, just beside the Adam’s apple, roughly halfway between the jaw and collarbone.

  • How it helps: Specifically used for sore throat, laryngitis, and voice loss.

  • How to apply: Use your fingers to press gently (not too hard) on both sides of your neck and massage in small, circular movements.

4. KD6 – Zhaohai (Shining Sea)

  • Location: Just below the inner ankle bone.

  • How it helps: KD6 nourishes the throat and helps with dryness, inflammation, and respiratory irritation.

  • How to apply: Use your thumb to press inward and slightly upward on this point, holding for 1–2 minutes on each side.

"Read More: Acupressure for Sore Throat: A Natural Remedy That Works"

How to Perform Acupressure for a Sore Throat at Home

Acupressure is simple and safe to do at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Find a Quiet Space

Choose a calm, comfortable setting where you can sit or lie down without distractions.

Step 2: Warm Up Your Hands

Rub your hands together to create warmth and increase sensitivity before touching any points.

Step 3: Locate the Pressure Points

Use a diagram or the descriptions above to find the correct points. Take your time—it may take a few tries to get used to their exact location.

Step 4: Apply Pressure

  • Use firm, steady pressure—but not so hard it hurts.

  • Massage each point for about 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

  • Breathe slowly and deeply as you press each point.

Step 5: Repeat as Needed

You can perform this routine 2–3 times a day, or whenever your throat feels sore or scratchy.

Benefits Beyond the Throat

Acupressure doesn’t just relieve the throat—it offers whole-body benefits, including:

  • Reduced stress: Many pressure points activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping you relax.

  • Improved sleep: Relief from discomfort may help you rest better.

  • Better circulation: Encourages blood flow and lymphatic drainage to fight infection.

  • Immune support: Certain points, like LI4 and LU10, activate the body’s natural defense systems.

What to Expect: Immediate and Long-Term Effects

Some people feel immediate relief, while others notice improvements after a few sessions. Consistency is key—daily use of acupressure can help you recover faster and even prevent future flare-ups by keeping your energy balanced.

You might feel:

  • Warmth or tingling at the pressure point

  • Lightheadedness (especially if you're dehydrated—drink water!)

  • Relaxation or drowsiness

All of these are normal signs that your body is responding.

When to See a Professional

While DIY acupressure is effective for mild to moderate sore throats, you should consider professional help if:

  • Your symptoms persist for more than a few days

  • You develop a high fever or swollen glands

  • You have difficulty swallowing or breathing

  • You're unsure about the correct technique or want a more customized treatment

At North Nassau Acupuncture, our expert practitioners use both acupuncture and acupressure techniques to provide safe, targeted relief. We combine ancient healing wisdom with modern expertise to treat sore throats at the root, restoring balance, not just masking symptoms.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Acupressure

To maximize relief:

  • Stay hydrated: Water helps flush toxins and soothe irritated tissues.

  • Avoid irritants: Skip spicy foods, smoking, and cold drinks.

  • Rest your voice: Talk less and avoid yelling or whispering.

  • Pair with other remedies: Warm teas with honey, throat gargles, and steam inhalation complement acupressure perfectly.

Final Thoughts: Natural Healing You Can Trust

Acupressure is a gentle, empowering practice that puts your healing back into your own hands—literally. For those looking to treat a sore throat naturally, it’s an effective and accessible tool backed by centuries of traditional healing.

Next time your throat starts to ache, skip the quick fixes and give your body the support it needs with a few simple pressure points. You might be surprised just how quickly your body responds.

Learn more or book an appointment today.

Location: United States

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