Gall Bladder 3 (GB 3) Shang Guan — Upper Gate

This point, above the zygomatic arch, benefits the ears, dispels wind and benefits the jaw.

Gall Bladder 3 (GB 3) Shang Guan 上關 — Upper Gate

Location

On the face, anterior to the ear, in the depression at the upper border of the zygomatic arch, directly above ST-7.

Anatomy

On the upper border of the zygomatic arch; the zygomatico-orbital artery; the zygomatic branch of the facial nerve and the zygomaticotemporal nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Benefits the ears and dispels wind
  • Benefits the jaw and face

Indications

Tinnitus and deafness, headache and dizziness, facial paralysis, toothache, and lockjaw.

Needling

0.3-0.5 cun, perpendicular insertion.

Moxibustion Suitability

Moxibustion is generally not used on the face.

Point Combinations

With GB-2 and SJ-17 for ear disorders.

Classical Text References

A meeting point with the Stomach and Triple Burner channels.

Cautions & Contraindications

None specific.

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.

Check Also

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.