Easy Acupressure Points to Unclog Sinus Congestion

Sinus congestion can be a real drag—headaches, facial pressure, and a nose that just won’t stop running (or worse, won’t run at all). While over-the-counter medications can help, they often come with unwanted side effects like drowsiness or rebound congestion. Thankfully, acupressure offers a natural, drug-free way to relieve sinus pressure and get you breathing clearly again.

In this post, we’ll walk through several simple acupressure points that you can use at home, at work, or anywhere sinus congestion strikes.

What Is Acupressure?

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves applying gentle pressure to specific points on the body. These points lie along “meridians,” or energy pathways, and stimulating them is believed to help restore balance and promote healing.

Unlike acupuncture, acupressure doesn’t require needles—just your fingers and a few minutes of your time.

Best Acupressure Points for Sinus Relief

1. Yintang (The Third Eye Point)

  • Location: Between your eyebrows, right above the bridge of the nose.

  • How to Use: Use your index or middle finger to gently press and massage this spot in a circular motion for 1–2 minutes.

  • Benefits: Helps relieve sinus pressure, headaches, and tension around the eyes.

2. Bitong (Nose Passage Points)

  • Location: On either side of your nose, just above the nostrils and next to the crease where the nose meets the cheek.

  • How to Use: Apply upward pressure with your index fingers, holding for 1 minute while taking deep breaths.

  • Benefits: Clears nasal passages and improves airflow almost instantly.

3. LI20 (Welcome Fragrance Point)

  • Location: Next to the nostrils, in the groove where the nose meets the cheek.

  • How to Use: Press firmly with both index fingers and hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute. You can also massage in small circles.

  • Benefits: Helps open up the sinuses and relieve nasal stuffiness.

4. LI4 (Hegu or Union Valley)

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

  • How to Use: Apply firm pressure with your opposite thumb and massage for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each hand.

  • Benefits: Reduces general sinus pain, headaches, and tension throughout the face and head.

⚠️ Note: This point is not recommended for pregnant individuals as it may induce labor.

5. BL2 (Drilling Bamboo)

  • Location: At the inner edge of your eyebrows, right where they meet the bridge of your nose.

  • How to Use: Use your thumbs to press gently into the points and hold for about 1 minute, breathing deeply.

  • Benefits: Relieves sinus headaches, eye pressure, and nasal congestion.

Tips for Best Results

  • Be consistent: Use acupressure 1–2 times daily during a sinus flare-up.

  • Combine with steam or essential oils: Try applying pressure after a hot shower or while using eucalyptus oil to enhance results.

  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and aids in drainage.

Final Thoughts

Acupressure is a simple and effective way to ease sinus congestion without reaching for meds. These pressure points can help relieve facial pain, open up nasal passages, and help you breathe easier—naturally. As always, if symptoms persist for more than 10 days or worsen, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider.

Try incorporating these pressure points into your daily routine and feel the difference—your sinuses will thank you!