Cat Whiskers

Dear Patient,

“Can you do the cat whiskers?” A patient will sometimes ask me. It’s a popular request this time of year, when seasonal allergies wreak havoc on the nose and sinuses.

The “cat whiskers” refer to Large Intestine 20, a point located just beside each nostril. It relieves sinus pressure, opens up the nasal passages, and reduces facial inflammation and swelling. As its name, Welcome Fragrance, suggests, it clears up a stuffy nose and facilitates breathing. Lately we’ve also been using it for post-covid loss of smell—an ancient technique for a modern condition.

Located just above Large Intestine 20 is another point with similar actions—Bi Tong, which means Penetrating the Nose. Usually I’ll insert a needle at Large Intestine 20, then thread upwards toward Bi Tong, stimulating both points with one needle. One needle on the side of each nostril, angled upward toward the bridge of the nose produces the signature “cat whiskers” look.

I always appreciate feedback from patients on what does or doesn’t work for them. When a patient requests a point (or asks me to avoid one), it shows an engagement with the process. They’re interacting with the medicine, learning more about their own body, and teaching me too.

These points work quickly—often a patient is able to fully inhale through the nose within seconds of me needling here. And they’re remarkably effective with acupressure too. If allergies are making you miserable and you can’t get to the acupuncturist, you can apply gentle pressure on yourself, no cat whiskers necessary (seriously, don’t needle yourself at home). Press on the side of each nostril with your index fingers to stimulate both Large Intestine 20 and Bi Tong. Rub in circles and take a few deep breaths, and soon you’ll feel your nasal passages open up—Welcome, Fragrance.

Love and gratitude,

Your Acupuncturist