Tingly Lipsaccording to TCM

What is Tingly Lips?

Tingly lips, medically known as paresthesia, refer to a tingling or numb sensation in the lips. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including nerve irritation, allergies, vitamin deficiencies, or more serious conditions like stroke or multiple sclerosis. Symptoms often include a prickling, pins-and-needles sensation, or numbness that can affect both upper and lower lips. While occasional tingling may be harmless, persistent or recurrent episodes warrant medical attention to determine the underlying cause.

How Does TCM View Tingly Lips?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views tingly lips as a sign of internal imbalance or obstruction within the body's meridians. Unlike Western medicine, which might focus on neurological or systemic causes, TCM considers patterns such as Wind invasion, Blood Deficiency, or Qi Stagnation. Identifying the specific pattern is crucial in TCM, as it guides the practitioner in selecting the appropriate treatment strategy to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.

Acupoints for Tingly Lips

Acupuncture is a common treatment in TCM for tingly lips, aiming to restore the flow of Qi and Blood in the affected area. Specific acupoints are targeted to relieve the tingling sensation and address the underlying disharmony. For instance, Dicang (ST-4), located lateral to the corner of the mouth, is used to expel Wind and remove obstructions from the channel. This acupoint helps in reducing the tingling sensation by promoting circulation and alleviating blockage.

By stimulating these acupoints, TCM aims to harmonize the body's internal environment, thereby providing relief from symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

See more details below about Dicang ST-4, an acupoint used to address tingly lips.

Dicang ST-4

Lateral to the corner of the mouth, directly below Juliao ST-3.