Fenglong (ST40): The Master Acupoint for Resolving Phlegm in TCM
Explore Fenglong (ST40), one of the most important acupuncture points in TCM for resolving phlegm, dampness, and chest congestion. Learn its location, clinical uses, and how to apply acupressure at home.
Introduction to Fenglong
Fenglong (丰隆, ST40), meaning “Abundant Bulge,” is one of the most clinically versatile and frequently used acupuncture points in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It holds the title of the most important point for resolving phlegm — a distinction that makes it indispensable in treating respiratory, digestive, and even neurological conditions.
Located on the lower leg, Fenglong is the Luo-Connecting point of the Stomach meridian, meaning it creates a direct bridge between the Stomach and Spleen channels. This connection is precisely why it is so effective at resolving phlegm — it addresses both the organ that produces phlegm (Spleen fails to transform fluids) and the pathway through which it travels.
Location
Anatomical location: On the lateral side of the lower leg, approximately 8 cun above the tip of the lateral malleolus (outer ankle bone) and 1 cun lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia (shinbone).
How to Find It
- Find the midpoint between your kneecap (Duban/ST35) and your ankle crease (Jiexi/ST41)
- From this midpoint, move about one finger-width toward the outside of the leg
- You should feel a slight depression or tender spot in the muscle belly of the tibialis anterior
- The point is often tender when pressed, especially if you have phlegm or dampness accumulation
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Meridian | Stomach (Foot Yangming) |
| Point type | Luo-Connecting point |
| Region | Lower leg |
| Depth | 1-1.5 cun perpendicular insertion |
Key Functions
1. Resolves Phlegm and Dampness (化痰除湿)
This is Fenglong’s primary claim to fame. In TCM, phlegm comes in two forms:
- Visible phlegm (有形之痰): Physical mucus, sputum, nasal discharge, productive cough
- Invisible phlegm (无形之痰): Phlegm that obstructs the mind, meridians, or organs without obvious physical manifestation — causing dizziness, mental fog, emotional disturbance, nodules, or numbness
Fenglong addresses both types, making it unique among acupoints.
2. Harmonizes Stomach and Spleen (调和脾胃)
As the Luo-connecting point bridging Stomach and Spleen:
- Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
- Reduces bloating, nausea, and fullness
- Helps the Spleen properly transform fluids (preventing new phlegm formation)
3. Calms the Spirit (安神)
When invisible phlegm disturbs the Heart and mind:
- Insomnia with restlessness
- Anxiety and palpitations
- Mental confusion and poor concentration
- Emotional volatility
4. Promotes Diuresis (利水)
- Reduces edema, especially in the lower body
- Helps eliminate excess dampness through urination
Clinical Applications
Respiratory Conditions
- Productive cough with copious or sticky phlegm
- Bronchitis and chronic bronchial inflammation
- Asthma with phlegm accumulation
- Pneumonia recovery (to clear residual phlegm)
Digestive Conditions
- Nausea and vomiting with phlegm-dampness
- Bloating and fullness in the abdomen
- Poor appetite with a feeling of heaviness
- Obesity related to phlegm-dampness accumulation
Neurological and Mental Conditions
- Dizziness and vertigo from phlegm obstructing the clear Yang
- Headaches with a heavy, “wrapped” sensation
- Mental fog and poor concentration
- Anxiety and insomnia when phlegm disturbs the Heart
Other Applications
- High cholesterol and triglycerides (modern research suggests metabolic benefits)
- Leg pain and swelling
- Goiter and thyroid nodules (phlegm accumulation in the neck)
Acupressure Technique
You can stimulate Fenglong at home using acupressure:
Step-by-Step Method
- Sit comfortably with your leg relaxed
- Locate the point using the method described above
- Apply firm, circular pressure with your thumb or knuckle
- Maintain pressure for 2-3 minutes on each leg
- Breathe deeply while pressing — this enhances the effect
- Repeat 2-3 times daily, especially before meals
What to Expect
- The point will likely be tender — this indicates Qi stagnation or phlegm accumulation
- With regular stimulation, tenderness should gradually decrease
- You may notice improved digestion, reduced phlegm, or clearer thinking within days to weeks
Common Point Combinations
| Combination | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fenglong (ST40) + Fenglong (ST40) + Lieque (LU7) | Resolve phlegm in the Lungs, productive cough |
| Fenglong (ST40) + Zusanli (ST36) | Strengthen Spleen, resolve dampness, improve digestion |
| Fenglong (ST40) + Neiguan (PC6) | Calm the mind, treat nausea, resolve phlegm affecting the Heart |
| Fenglong (ST40) + Yinlingquan (SP9) | Resolve dampness, reduce edema |
| Fenglong (ST40) + Fengchi (GB20) | Treat dizziness from phlegm, clear head fog |
Precautions
- Pregnancy — use gentle pressure only; deep needling should be supervised by a practitioner
- Broken skin or infection at the point location — avoid stimulation
- Severe varicose veins in the lower leg — use caution
- This point is powerful — do not overstimulate (more is not better)
Key Takeaways
- Fenglong (ST40) is the most important acupoint for resolving phlegm and dampness in TCM
- As the Luo-connecting point of the Stomach channel, it bridges Stomach and Spleen to address the root of phlegm formation
- Treats both visible phlegm (respiratory mucus) and invisible phlegm (mental fog, dizziness, emotional disturbance)
- Easy to locate and stimulate with acupressure at home
- Combines well with Zusanli (ST36), Neiguan (PC6), and Lieque (LU7) for comprehensive phlegm and dampness treatment
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Consult a licensed acupuncturist or TCM practitioner for professional treatment.
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FAQ
Why is Fenglong (ST40) considered the most important point for phlegm?
Fenglong is the Luo-connecting point of the Stomach meridian, connecting to the Spleen meridian. Since the Spleen is responsible for transforming fluids, and when it fails, dampness accumulates into phlegm, Fenglong directly addresses this mechanism. It resolves both 'visible phlegm' (mucus, sputum) and 'invisible phlegm' (phlegm affecting the mind, causing dizziness or mental fog).
Can I massage Fenglong at home?
Yes. Apply firm, circular pressure with your thumb on the point for 2-3 minutes on each leg. It may feel tender, which is normal. This can help with digestion, reduce feelings of heaviness, and support fluid metabolism. Avoid strong pressure during pregnancy or on broken skin.
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.