Discover the Power of These Acupressure Points to Boost Liver Health and Energy Naturally
If you’re dealing with stubborn belly fat and persistent low energy, your liver might be calling for attention. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver plays a central role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and detoxification. That’s why using fatty liver acupressure points can be a gentle yet effective way to support your body’s natural healing and energy flow.
We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a respected TCM therapist from Japan, who shared four essential acupoints that may help regulate liver function, improve metabolism, and combat fatigue. To learn more about how acupressure works and its wide-ranging benefits, check out our comprehensive guide to acupressure techniques and their benefits.
Let’s explore the key points she recommends and how to use them effectively.
SP-4 (Gongsun) – For Digestive Harmony and Energy Flow
Known as Gongsun, this point is located on the inner side of the foot, just below the base of the big toe, where the skin meets the sole.
Benefits:
- Supports healthy digestion, which is critical for proper liver function.
- Assists in the removal of dampness and toxins that can burden the liver.
- Helps regulate energy (Qi) movement through the spleen and stomach meridians.
How to Apply:
- Use your thumb to press and gently rotate the area for 1-2 minutes on each foot.
- Best applied in the morning and evening to align with the body’s digestive cycle.
BL-18 (Ganshu) – The Liver’s Back Door
Located on the back, between the spine and shoulder blade, at the level of the 9th thoracic vertebra, this is the back-shu point of the liver.
Benefits:
- Stimulates liver detoxification and reduces stagnation.
- Encourages smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body.
- Supports emotional balance, especially if stress is affecting your liver.
How to Apply:
- You can use a massage ball or ask someone to gently press the area.
- Apply steady pressure for 1-2 minutes per side, especially helpful before bed for a calming effect.
Liv-3 (Taichong) – The Liver’s Command Center

This popular acupoint lies on the top of the foot, in the depression between the big toe and second toe.
Benefits:
- One of the most powerful points for liver Qi regulation.
- Aids in reducing abdominal bloating and fat accumulation.
- Improves mood and vitality by dispersing liver stagnation.
How to Apply:
- Apply firm, circular pressure using your index finger or thumb.
- Breathe deeply and hold for 1-2 minutes on each foot, twice daily.
Liv-4 (Zhongfeng) – Detox and Drain
Zhongfeng is located on the inner ankle, slightly in front of the medial malleolus (the inner ankle bone).
Benefits:
- Promotes better liver drainage and detoxification.
- Clears damp-heat that can contribute to fatigue and sluggish metabolism.
- Helps reduce inflammation and supports circulation.
How to Apply:
- Press the point with your thumb, moving in small, circular motions.
- Aim for 1 minute per ankle, ideally as part of your morning and bedtime routine.
Best Time to Stimulate These Points
According to Ms. Mai, the most effective times to activate these fatty liver acupressure points are:
- In the morning, shortly after waking up – to kickstart your metabolism and energy levels for the day.
- Before bed, to support the liver’s natural detoxification process during sleep.
By integrating this acupressure routine into your daily wellness habits, you may begin to see improvements in energy, digestion, and weight management over time.
Final Thoughts: Supporting Your Liver for Lasting Energy
TCM views the liver not just as a detox organ but as a major controller of energy flow and emotional well-being. These four fatty liver acupressure points—SP-4, BL-18, Liv-3, and Liv-4—offer a non-invasive way to help your body restore balance, reduce fatigue, and improve metabolic function. When practiced consistently, this natural therapy could be a powerful ally in your path to better health.
As always, for best results, pair your acupressure routine with a liver-friendly lifestyle: eat balanced meals, stay hydrated, reduce stress, and get quality sleep.
Want to dive deeper into holistic acupressure practices? Don’t miss our full acupressure guide for more techniques and tips.

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