Did you know your fingertips can help relieve a sore throat quickly and naturally?
While most people turn to hot teas, lozenges, throat sprays, or antibiotics, there’s a lesser-known technique that has been trusted for centuries: Acupressure.
This natural approach works by targeting specific pressure points on the body that help boost circulation, relax surrounding muscles, and calm inflammation in the throat.
Instead of temporarily numbing the pain, it gently supports your body’s natural healing process. You don’t need any equipment or medication just focused pressure using your hands.
It takes only a few minutes and can be done almost anywhere, whether you’re in bed, on a break, or even while resting at home.
In this guide, we’ll show you the exact points to press, how to do it correctly, and how acupressure can offer real relief right from the comfort of any place.
What Is Acupressure and How Can It Help a Sore Throat?
Acupressure originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine and works without needles by applying pressure to specific points using your fingers. These points, known as ‘qi’ or ‘chi,’ are essential for the body’s energy flow and have been used for centuries to ease pain and improve health.
When you have a sore throat, acupressure can help:
- Ease throat pain by triggering your body’s natural pain relievers (endorphins).
- Reduce inflammation, calming swollen tissues
- Boost circulation around the throat, passing oxygen and nutrients for faster healing
- Lower stress, which can worsen throat symptoms and weaken immunity
- Support immune function, helping your body fight off cold or infection sources.
A 2015 Study in PubMed found that ear acupuncture reduced throat pain faster than standard care. Patients reported lower pain levels within 15 minutes and continued relief over 24 hours, with less need for medication in the following two days.
Why It Works Better Than You Think?
Acupressure helps your body respond to pain calmly and naturally. It doesn’t rely on chemicals or quick fixes. Instead, it uses physical pressure to trigger the body’s built-in healing systems.
When you press specific points, it signals your nervous system to release endorphins, improve circulation, and reduce tension. This creates a chain reaction: less inflammation, better oxygen flow, and a more relaxed throat.
It also helps your mind slow down. Since stress can make throat pain worse, a few focused minutes of acupressure often bring both physical and mental relief.
It’s simple, but the impact can be powerful, especially when used early and consistently during the first signs of throat discomfort.
What Are the Key Acupressure Points for Sore Throat Relief?
For sore throat relief, acupressure focuses on several critical points in the body. Stimulating these points can help alleviate throat pain and associated symptoms. Here are some of the primary sore throat acupressure points for throat pain:
Pressure Point | Location | Duration | Benefits |
LU11 (Lung Meridian) | Outer corner of the thumbnail | 60 seconds per thumb | Eases sore throat, cough and boosts respiratory health |
B10 (Heavenly Pillar) | Base of the skull, one finger-width from the spine | 1 minute per side | Reduces throat pain, neck tension, and stress |
CV22 | Hollow at the base of the throat | 30–60 seconds | Helps with swallowing discomfort and throat tightness |
LI4 (Large Intestine 4) | Webbing between the thumb and index finger | 1–2 minutes per hand | Relieves throat pain, calms facial tension |
GB20 (Gallbladder 20) | Hollows below the skull on both sides of the spine | 1 minute | Soothes neck stiffness and headache-related throat pain |
SI17 (Small Intestine 17) | Behind the jawbone, below the ear | 1 minute | Relieves throat spasms and earache-related tension |
How do you Perform Acupressure for Sore Throat Relief?
Step 1: Warm your hands by rubbing them together.
Step 2: Use your thumb or finger to apply gentle pressure to each point.
Step 3: Hold firmly but not painfully for the recommended time.
Step 4: Breathe deeply this boosts the calming effect.
Step5: Repeat throughout the day until relief comes.
Bonus Tips to Amplify Relief
- Stay hydrated water and warm teas keep your throat moist.
- Ride a salt-water gargle to help reduce soreness.
- Rest well your body heals best when it’s relaxed.
- For added comfort, try honey and lemon tea for soothing and antibacterial benefits.
When to See a Doctor
Acupressure serves well for mild to moderate throat pain, but skip it if your symptoms include:
- High fever or persistent swollen glands
- Blood in saliva or phlegm
- Lasting more than a few days
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
These may need professional medical evaluation.
Conclusion
Acupressure is a gentle, effective way to ease sore throat symptoms and support your body’s natural healing response. With just your fingertips and a few minutes of focused pressure, you can relieve discomfort and help your throat recover faster.
If you’re ready to experience deeper, more holistic Kaizen Health Group care, is here to support you. Our skilled therapists are trained in time-tested healing techniques and know exactly how to apply them safely, effectively and with care.
We bring together the wisdom of traditional therapies and the clarity of modern science to guide you toward lasting relief, stronger immunity, and true wellness.
FAQ - Acupressure Points for Throat Pain
The acupressure point for a throat infection is commonly known as CV 22 (Conception Vessel 22). It is located in the depression at the center of the base of the neck, just above the sternum. Applying gentle pressure to this point can help alleviate throat discomfort and improve symptoms.
Yes, acupressure can help with an itchy throat. Pressure points such as LI 4 (Large Intestine 4) located between the thumb and index finger, and CV 22 can provide relief from throat itchiness and irritation by promoting better circulation and reducing inflammation.
Foot reflexology can help with a sore throat by targeting specific points on the feet that correspond to the throat area. Massaging the reflex points on the ball of the foot, particularly below the toes, can stimulate healing and provide relief from throat pain and discomfort.
While it is not common to massage a sore throat directly, gentle massage around the neck and throat area, especially along the lymph nodes, can help reduce swelling and improve circulation. However, it is important to be gentle and avoid putting too much pressure on a sore throat.
Several pressure points can help stop coughing. Some of the most effective ones include:
- CV 22 (Conception Vessel 22): Located in the depression at the center of the base of the neck, just above the sternum.
- LI 4 (Large Intestine 4): Located between the thumb and index finger.
- LU 7 (Lung 7): Located on the inside of the wrist, about an inch below the base of the thumb.
