Edited by Acupressure Guide Editorial TeamContent reviewed for accuracy on June 1, 2026

Acupressure for Constipation: Best Points for Natural Relief

Acupressure offers a gentle, drug-free approach to relieving constipation by stimulating digestive motility and regulating bowel function.

1. ST36 (Zusanli) - Leg Three Miles

ST36 is the master point for digestive health. It strengthens the digestive system, regulates intestinal motility, and helps relieve both constipation and diarrhea.

Location: Four finger-widths below the kneecap, one finger-width outward from the shinbone. ST36 guide.

Technique: Press firmly with your thumb for 2-3 minutes on each leg. You may feel a sensation traveling down the leg.

2. LI4 (Hegu) - Joining Valley

The Large Intestine meridian point LI4 directly influences large intestine function and helps regulate bowel movements.

Location: Between thumb and index finger. LI4 guide.

3. CV6 (Qihai) - Sea of Qi

Located on the lower abdomen, CV6 directly stimulates intestinal activity and strengthens digestive fire.

Location: Two finger-widths below the navel on the midline of the abdomen.

Technique: Use two or three fingers to press gently but firmly into the lower abdomen. Circular massage for 3-5 minutes.

What Is the Daily Constipation Relief Routine?

Step-by-Step Routine

  1. Upon waking, massage CV6 clockwise for 3 minutes
  2. Stimulate ST36 on both legs for 2 minutes each
  3. Press LI4 on both hands for 1 minute each
  4. Drink a warm glass of water
  5. Repeat the routine 2-3 hours after meals

What Does the Scientific Evidence Say?

Acupressure for constipation is less studied than some other conditions on this site, and the evidence is preliminary. Reviews of acupressure for digestive symptoms generally describe the field as promising but under-researched, with studies that are often small or hard to blind. The routine above is a reasonable, gentle place to start, but chronic constipation lasting more than a few weeks warrants review by a healthcare provider.

What Other Tips Help Relieve Constipation?

  • Stay well hydrated throughout the day
  • Increase fiber intake gradually
  • Combine with gentle abdominal massage
  • Regular exercise supports digestive motility
  • See a doctor if constipation persists more than 3 weeks

Medical Disclaimer: Consult your healthcare provider before using acupressure for chronic constipation, especially if you have a known digestive condition.

Acupressure has been evaluated in clinical trials for pain, nausea, anxiety, and sleep, with evidence described as promising but requiring further high-quality research.

— Lee EJ, Frazier SK. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. 2011;42(4):589-603. PMID 21531533.

Verifiable sources

  1. Lee EJ, Frazier SK. The efficacy of acupressure for symptom management: a systematic review. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. 2011;42(4):589-603. PMID 21531533 · DOI
  2. Song HJ, Seo HJ, Lee H, Son H, Choi SM, Lee S. Effect of self-acupressure for symptom management: a systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2015;23(1):68-78. PMID 25637155 · DOI

Evidence for acupressure from published systematic reviews. See our research page for details.