Struggling With Belly Fat and Low Energy? These 4 Fatty Liver Acupressure Points Could Be the Missing Link!

Approved

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Ms. Mai Sogawa

Ms. Mai Sogawa is a senior therapist who graduated from Japan Medical School of Judo Acupuncture and Moxibustion International Education College.

Find Out More »

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

Acupoint: Liv-3 (Other Names: Liver-3/Tai Chong/Supreme Rush)
Acupoint: Liv-3 (Other Names: Liver-3/Tai Chong/Supreme Rush)

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.

Gua Sha Tool

Try our Anti-Aging Gua Sha Tool designed to bring out your skin’s natural glow.

Best Gua Sha Product
Facial Gua Sha Tool For Beginner
Purchase on Amazon
  • Anti-Aging: The tool is designed to target 11 specific aging signs such as wrinkles and sagging skin. By following the 7-step routine, users can improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines naturally.
  • Enhances Skincare Routine: It works effectively with serums and lotions, boosting absorption and efficacy of skincare products.
  • Visible Skin Improvement: Users can expect a smoother complexion, reduced puffiness, and a more youthful appearance.
What a reviewer says: “The tool is made of ceramic. It’s very solid & it looks like it will last me a lifetime. I’ve used it about four times & it really brings circulation to the areas I work on. I believe in time it’s going to make a difference in my skin. It comes in a cute pink zipper bag for traveling. Also, it’s one of the only Gua Sha face tools that comes with an eBook & a quick start guide.”

Author: P. Sze

P. Sze P. Sze is the founder of TCM Tips and Dragon Acupuncture®. She graduated from the National University of Singapore with a first-class honor in Civil Engineering. S he also holds a master’s degree in Engineering and is the brain behind the innovative TCM products of Dragon Acupuncture®. She is the author of The Beginner's Guide to Auricular Therapy: Application of Ear Seeds (ISBN 978-1520451398) and Facial Gua Sha - Fight the Signs of Aging Naturally and Inexpensively (ISBN 978-1980678922). She has dedicated her life to ensuring that the complex theories behind oriental medicine and the seemingly dangerous techniques that involve needles and fire do not scare you from trying oriental medicine. This is why she writes endlessly about acupressure and its countless health and wellness benefits.

Press ESC to close

Scroll to Top