Conception Vessel 9 (REN 9) Shui Fen — Water Divide

This point, above the umbilicus, is the principal point for regulating water metabolism and resolving oedema.

Conception Vessel 9 (REN 9) Shui Fen 水分 — Water Divide

Location

On the upper abdomen, on the anterior midline, 1 cun superior to the umbilicus.

Anatomy

On the linea alba; the inferior and superior epigastric arteries; the ninth intercostal nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Regulates water metabolism and resolves oedema
  • Harmonises the Intestines and the Stomach

Indications

Oedema and ascites, difficult urination, abdominal distension and borborygmus, and diarrhoea.

Needling

0.8-1.2 cun perpendicular; moxa is often preferred for oedema.

Moxibustion Suitability

Highly suitable - moxa on REN-9 is a classic treatment for oedema.

Point Combinations

With SP-9 and ST-28 for oedema.

Classical Text References

A key Ren Mai point for water metabolism.

Cautions & Contraindications

None specific (avoid deep insertion if ascites is marked).

Latest Research

Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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PubMed research

Traditional Chinese Medicine Improves Nutritional Status in Maintenance Haemodialysis Patients, Meta-Analysis Finds

Research summary (Traditional Chinese Medicine): Efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in improving nutritional status among Chinese maintenance hemodialysis patients: a meta-analysis of - Frontiers in nutrition, 2026.