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This point, at the base of the neck, is the meeting point of all the yang channels with the Du Mai. It is the principal point for clearing heat, releasing the exterior and tonifying yang.
Location
On the back of the neck, in the depression below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7).
Anatomy
On the supraspinous and interspinous ligaments; the transverse cervical artery branch; the medial branch of the dorsal ramus of the eighth cervical nerve.
Actions & Functions
- Clears heat and releases the exterior (meeting of all yang)
- Regulates malaria and febrile disease
- Tonifies yang and benefits the brain
- Calms the spirit and benefits the neck
Indications
Febrile disease, common cold, malaria, cough and asthma, heat conditions and night sweats, epilepsy, stiff neck, and steaming bone disorder.
Needling
0.5-1.0 cun, oblique upward insertion.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion; moxa tonifies yang.
Point Combinations
With LI-4 and GB-20 for the common cold; with LI-11 for febrile disease.
Classical Text References
The meeting point of the Du Mai with all six yang channels.
Cautions & Contraindications
Needle obliquely; the spinal cord lies deep below this level.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.
