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Ganshu (BL-18), “Liver Shu”, is the Back-Shu point of the Liver. It spreads Liver qi, nourishes Liver blood, benefits the eyes and the sinews and regulates the emotions.
Location
On the back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9).
Anatomy
On the latissimus dorsi, over the erector spinae; the posterior intercostal artery; the dorsal rami of the thoracic nerves.
Actions & Functions
- Spreads Liver qi and resolves stagnation (Back-Shu of the Liver)
- Nourishes Liver blood and benefits the eyes and sinews
- Regulates the emotions and clears damp-heat (jaundice)
Indications
Hypochondriac pain, depression and irritability, eye disorders and blurred vision, jaundice, and menstrual disorders.
Needling
0.5-0.7 cun, oblique insertion towards the spine.
Moxibustion Suitability
Suitable for moxibustion.
Point Combinations
With LV-3 to spread Liver qi; with BL-23 to nourish Liver and Kidney and benefit the eyes.
Classical Text References
The Back-Shu point of the Liver.
Cautions & Contraindications
Deep perpendicular insertion risks pneumothorax; needle obliquely.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.