Conception Vessel 13 (REN 13) Shang Wan — Upper Venter

This point, on the upper abdomen, harmonises the Stomach, descends rebellious qi and is used for vomiting and hiccup.

Conception Vessel 13 (REN 13) Shang Wan 上脘 — Upper Venter

Location

On the upper abdomen, on the anterior midline, 5 cun superior to the umbilicus.

Anatomy

On the linea alba; the superior epigastric artery; the seventh intercostal nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Harmonises the Stomach and descends rebellious qi
  • Calms the spirit and resolves phlegm

Indications

Stomach pain, vomiting and hiccup, acid regurgitation, and epilepsy with phlegm.

Needling

0.8-1.2 cun, perpendicular insertion.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With REN-12 and PC-6 for vomiting and hiccup.

Classical Text References

A meeting point with the Stomach and Small Intestine channels.

Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid deep insertion in thin patients (the liver and stomach lie beneath).

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

Acupuncture Shows Sustained Benefits for Chronic Daily Headache Prevention in Adults, Meta-Analysis Finds

Research summary (Acupuncture): Utility of Acupuncture Therapy for Adult Chronic Daily Headache Prophylaxis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. - Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 2026.