Expert: John R. Cross - 11/3/2009

Question
QUESTION: Dr. Cross,

Would you be so kind as to recommend acupressure points (and methods of effecting them) to diminish under-eye bags (puffy eyes)?

Thank you,

TH

ANSWER: Hello TH,

You do not state how long you have had this but I am assuming it is a number of years. Traditionally the lower parts of the eyes are linked with both kidney and stomach energy and bags form under the eyes due to 'stagnation' of energy in these two systems. An easy (but boring) way of clearing the problem over a period of weeks, if not months, is to take lots more water (not just fluids)- up to two pints a day, to get the body reduce the toxins.

With acupressure - you need to do some tonifying massage around the inside of the heel just below the inside ankle bone - this will help build up kidney energy (by the way don't get worried that there is something wrong with your kidneys - there isn't). You may find some tender points there (both ankles)- do some deep circular massage to each point for about 5 seconds before moving on to another point - you do NOT have to be exactly on an acupoint as it is the area that you are effecting. To effect both kidney and stomach - find the clavicle and do the same type of massage all the length underneath both clavicles. Do these two areas twice a day. You will need to keep this going for a few weeks but as well as clearing the eyes you will feel better within - hope it works. Regards, John

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you very much, Doctor.
You are right. I've had puffy eyes for number of years.
Although, I understand, general areas may be worked on, could you please name some major acu-points at and around which I would need to massage.
It would be easier for me to find the places.

Thanks again
TH.

Answer
The best two acupoints on the Kidney meridian would be KI 3 which is found mid way between the inside ankle bone (medial malleolus) and the Achilles tendon and KI 6 which is situated just below the medial malleolus. The best acupoint on the Stomach meridian for your problem is ST 44 which is to be found in the 'web' between the 2nd and 3rd toes at the crease. The points around the feet are obviously a little harder to self treat than other ones but very rewarding - hope this helps - John