Top 7 Acupressure points for erectile dysfunction

Acupressure points for erectile dysfunction provide a safe, natural approach to support sexual health, especially when ED is linked to stress, poor blood flow, or hormonal imbalances. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupressure works by stimulating specific points like CV4, SP6, and KD3 to activate the nervous and vascular systems, enhance circulation, increase nitric oxide, and improve mood. While not a cure-all, research suggests that combining acupressure with lifestyle changes, medications, or pelvic floor therapy might significantly improve outcomes. It’s a gentle but powerful tool to integrate into your broader ED recovery plan.
Looking for acupressure points for erectile dysfunction? You’re not alone. Many men are exploring natural ways to manage ED, especially when it’s caused by poor blood flow, stress, or hormonal imbalances.
Acupressure can offer a non-invasive approach that may help improve circulation, support nervous system balance, and promote better erections.
In this article, we’ll break down the top acupressure points for erectile dysfunction, how to use them safely, and how they fit into a holistic treatment plan. Whether you’re just starting your ED journey or looking to boost your current routine, this guide will give you a clear, evidence-informed path forward.
What is Acupressure?
Acupressure is a key part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which involves applying gentle pressure to specific pressure points on the body and believes in self-healing method of the body. It has also been approved by the World Health Organization.
According to Chinese-inspired treatment, our body’s energy, known as qi (pronounced “chee”), flows through defined energy pathways called meridian lines. When this energy flow is blocked or unbalanced in the meridian lines, it can lead to discomfort, pain, or even illness.
Acupressure helps by clearing these blockages and encouraging smooth energy flow, which in turn supports the body’s natural healing processes. It’s very similar to acupuncture (using de qi); the main difference is that acupressure uses fingers or tools instead of needles(de qi).
How Acupressure for Erectile Dysfunction Might Help
Acupressure works by gently stimulating both the nervous system and the vascular system, and both play a key role in achieving and maintaining a healthy erection. When these systems are activated properly, they help improve blood flow in the blood vessels, hormonal imbalances, and signal pathways needed for erections.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there’s another perspective: the liver and kidneys are considered the two main organs linked to sexual health and erectile function.
The kidneys are believed to store “essence”- the vital energy responsible for growth, reproduction, and immunity. The liver, on the other hand, not only stores blood but also regulates its smooth blood flow and volume throughout the body, including to the genitals.
Studies[1] show that acupressure might work by regulating the blood flow, nervous system, and helping release chemicals required for erections. The benefits put forward of acupressure for ED are:
Increased Blood Flow
Proper blood flow to the penis(corpus cavernosum) is essential for a healthy erection. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the kidneys and liver are linked to blood production and circulation. If these organs are imbalanced, it can affect blood flow and lead to ED.
Some studies[2] suggest that stimulating specific pressure points related to these organs may help improve circulation in the pelvic area.
Increased Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide is a natural chemical released by the inner lining of blood vessels. It helps relax and widen the vessels, allowing for better blood flow, especially to areas like the penis during arousal. This is essential for achieving a firm erection.
Acupressure may indirectly support the body’s natural nitric oxide production by activating the nervous system and improving circulation.
Better Mood
Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, and depression can impact sexual performance even when there’s no physical issue. Certain acupressure points may help calm the nervous system and improve mood.
A six-week study[3] on 64 men with psychogenic ED showed improvement after regular acupressure therapy. Other research[4] also supports the acupressure point’s role in reducing stress and enhancing emotional well-being.
Acupressure points work by stimulating both the nervous system and the vascular system. This dual action can help improve blood flow, reduce stress, and support the body’s natural healing processes, which is can be good for erectile dysfunction.
Top Acupressure Points for Erectile Dysfunction
There are a total of 361 acupressure points in the body, out of which many are related to sexual performance and sexual health. Let’s see the top 7 acupressure points for erectile dysfunction:
1. CV4-Conception Vessel 4 (Guānyuán): Gate of Origin
Where to find it |
Midline of lower abdomen, 3–4 finger-widths below the navel |
How to apply pressure |
One or both thumbs, press inward + slightly toward spine for 60 s, release; 3–5 cycles |
Why is it chosen |
Classic point to replenish Kidney qi and improve genital circulation; appears in most ED acupuncture trials |
2. CV3-Conception Vessel 3 (Zhongji): Middle Pole
Where to find it |
Midline, just above the pubic bone |
How to apply pressure |
One or both thumbs, press inward + slightly toward spine for 60 s, release; 3-5 cycles |
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Why is it chosen |
stimulating points CV3 helps delay ejaculation and boost a hormone linked to testosterone. |
3. KD3- Kidney 3(Taxini): Great Ravine
Where to find it |
A soft spot is located between the inner ankle bone and where the Achilles tendon begins. |
How to apply pressure |
Use your thumb to apply gentle, circular pressure for 1-2 minutes on each ankle. |
Why is it chosen |
because it’s a primary point on the Kidney meridian, which is believed to be crucial for sexual function |
4. BL23-Bladder 23 (Shènshū): Jinyu
Where to find it |
On the lower back, about two finger-widths to the side of the spine, near the second lower back bone (lumbar vertebra). |
How to apply pressure |
Lie or sit; use knuckles or a tennis ball against a wall for 1 min on each side |
Why is it chosen |
This point is linked to the kidneys and bladder meridian is often used to boost energy, improve erection, sperm production, and premature ejaculation. |
5. SP 6-Spleen 6(Sānyīnjiāo): Three Yin Intersection
Where to find it |
Inner lower leg, about four finger-widths above the inner ankle, just behind the shinbone. |
How to apply pressure |
Thumb-pad press or pinch–roll 30–60 s per leg |
Why is it chosen |
Meeting point of the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney energy lines; often used with CV4 to boost pelvic blood flow and ease stress-linked erectile dysfunction. |
6. LV3-Liver 3(Tàichōng ): Great Rushing
Where to find it |
Top of the foot, in the soft area between the big toe and second toe bones. |
How to apply pressure |
Press toward the ankle for 30 seconds on each foot |
Why is it chosen |
Helps release blocked energy in the liver and reduce anxiety that may interfere with erections. |
7. ST36-Stomach 36 (Zusanli ): Leg Three Miles
Where to find it |
About four finger-widths below the kneecap, on the outer side of the shinbone. |
How to apply pressure |
Firm circular pressure for 60 seconds on each leg |
Why is it chosen |
Enhances overall circulation |
How to Use Acupressure for ED Safely
If you have any chronic health conditions or are taking medications, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before starting a new wellness practice.
Start with Relaxation
Before getting started, take a moment to calm your nervous system. Sit comfortably or lie down, some suggest a scalp massage, whatever feels best for you.
Now take six slow, deep breaths: inhale through your nose, exhale gently through pursed lips.
This simple breathing exercise shifts your body out of stress mode and into a more receptive, healing state.
CV4 (Guānyuán) → CV3 (Zhōngjí) → BL23 (Shènshū) → KD3 (Tàixī) → SP6 (Sānyīnjiāo) → ST36 (Zúsānlǐ) → LV3 (Tàichōng)
Pressure Guidelines to Keep in Mind
- Use the same pressure you’d apply when checking if an avocado is ripe- firm but not forceful.
- Aim for a dull, comfortable ache, not pain or anything that makes you tense up.
- Press gently but steadily for 30-60 seconds, then release. Repeat 2–3 times per point.
- A slight tingling or warmth is a good sign; it means circulation is kicking in.
- Aim for this routine 2–3 times a day, for at least four weeks. That’s the timeline most research studies use to allow your body to respond and adjust.
Combine with Your Wellness Foundation
Here’s where Chinese herbal medicine and modern medicine agree: acupressure works best when combined with overall healthy living.
Lifestyle habits that amplify your results:
- Regular cardiovascular exercise, a better diet, and weight management
- Prioritizing quality sleep
- Reducing alcohol and tobacco use
- Managing stress through whatever works for you- meditation, hobbies, or simply talking with friends
Combining Acupressure With Other ED Treatments
Acupressure isn’t meant to work in isolation, and 2024 research strongly supports this. When used alongside other treatments, it often leads to better, faster, and more sustainable results:
- With medications (like PDE5 inhibitors):
Acupressure can enhance the effects of erectile dysfunction medications and may even reduce side effects. - With lifestyle changes:
Men who combined acupressure with healthy habits (like exercise and stress reduction) saw up to 85% improvement, compared to 60% with lifestyle changes alone. - With pelvic floor therapy(kegel exercises):
When combined with kegel exercises that release pelvic floor tension, acupressure led to 40% better outcomes.
That’s because it doesn’t just target blood flow; it can also ease the muscular tension that affects performance.
When to Be Cautious
While acupressure is generally very safe, there are a few situations where you should modify or avoid certain points:
- Deep abdominal pressure (CV3, CV4): Avoid with hernias, infections, or recent abdominal surgery
- Back points (BL23): Use very gentle pressure if you have spinal disorders
- General rule: If any point causes sharp pain or unusual discomfort, stop immediately
When to Seek Medical Support
- Erectile dysfunction symptoms lasting more than 3 months
- Any chest pain or cardiovascular symptoms during practice
- Sudden changes in erectile function
- If you’re taking medications and notice unusual interactions
Allo Health Insights: Acupressure & ED Care Trends
At Allo Health, after over 2.5 lakh patient consultations, we’re seeing a trend where men are increasingly seeking natural, low-risk options like acupressure alongside medical treatment.
- Nearly 1 in 3 ED patients ask about complementary therapies like acupressure and breathwork.
- Among men under 35, 62% of ED cases were linked to stress or anxiety, where acupressure may support recovery.
- Patients who combined lifestyle changes with stress-relief tools like acupressure reported better outcomes and higher satisfaction.
Bottom Line
Erectile dysfunction is the result of a complex mix of underlying factors like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, high cholesterol, and chronic stress.
In fact, in many cases, erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of more serious health issues, especially cardiovascular diseases, since erections rely heavily on healthy blood flow.
Acupressure isn’t a cure-all, but it offers a safe, accessible way to support key systems involved in sexual health. When combined with healthy lifestyle habits, many men find it to be a valuable part of their long-term wellness routine.
That said, it’s important to remember that most of the current evidence comes from small-scale studies. While early results are promising, larger clinical trials are still needed to fully confirm its clinical effectiveness.
Think of acupressure not as a quick fix, but as one important piece of a broader strategy to support your sexual health and overall well-being.
The following blog article provides general information and insights on various topics. However, it is important to note that the information presented is not intended as professional advice in any specific field or area. The content of this blog is for general educational and informational purposes only.
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