Yesterday on my way home, something happened that left a deep impression on me.
It was rush hour, and the carriage was almost completely full. With the weather getting warmer, the air felt a bit stuffy. In this environment, a man standing in front of me looked like he had just rushed onto the train, he was drenched in sweat.
Suddenly, his face turned pale, almost grey, and he looked as if he might faint at any moment.
There was no time to think (I was grateful that my years of emergency medical training as a flight attendant allowed me to quickly recognize what was happening). I immediately stood up and offered him my seat. Even after sitting down, he still looked unwell.
I gently said to him, “I’m a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine. Would you mind if I press an acupoint to help relieve your symptoms?” He nodded.
I then applied pressure to the “Renzhong” (1, 2) point for about thirty seconds.
Gradually, his eyes became clearer, his breathing steadied, and he visibly regained his awareness. Soon, he was able to speak with me clearly again.
In that moment, I was deeply reminded that certain skills truly matter, especially when they can make a real difference at a critical time.
Why did I choose “Renzhong” instead of other acupoints?
The Renzhong (DU-26) acupoint is located at the upper one-third of the philtrum (the groove below the nose). It is one of the most important emergency points in traditional Chinese medicine, known for its ability to restore consciousness, regulate yin and yang, and support breathing.
In that situation, the man showed clear signs of an impending faint: pale complexion, weakness, and altered awareness. What was needed most was a fast, direct, and effective intervention.
I chose Renzhong because:
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It is specifically indicated for emergencies: such as fainting, shock, heatstroke, and low blood pressure.
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It acts quickly on the central nervous system: helping to stimulate consciousness and stabilize the body.
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It is easily accessible: no need to remove clothing or reposition the person, which is crucial in a crowded, time-sensitive environment.
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It is safe and practical: to apply immediately, even outside of a clinical setting.
Compared to other acupoints, Renzhong is one of the most direct and efficient choices for reviving consciousness in urgent situations.
Main Functions and Applications:
Technique:
Use the pad of your index finger or thumb to press the upper one-third of the philtrum. Apply firm pressure in a slightly upward direction (toward the base of the nose). A sensation of soreness or fullness is expected. In emergency situations, the intensity and frequency of stimulation can be increased.
Conclusion:
If you notice someone about to faint, act quickly and don’t wait. Help them sit or lie down right away, lying flat with legs raised is best, but sitting is fine if space is limited. Make sure they won’t fall, loosen tight clothing, and help them get some fresh air. Keep talking to them so they stay alert and encourage slow, steady breathing.
You can also gently stimulate them, such as pressing the Renzhong (DU-26) point. Once they feel better, don’t let them stand up too quickly, and stay with them for a few minutes. Call for help if they lose consciousness, get injured, or don’t recover properly.
References:
1) Effect of DU-26 (Shuigou) Acupuncture Point Stimulation on Regaining Consciousness in ICU Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: https://sciety.org/articles/activity/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7387912
2) Acupuncture (including DU‑26) accelerates recovery after anesthesia: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2095496415601595
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