HT-8 Shaofu

Shaofu (HT-8), “Lesser Mansion”, is the Ying-Spring and Fire point of the Heart channel. It clears Heart and Small Intestine heat, calms the spirit and benefits the genitals.

HT-8  ·  Shàofǔ  ·  少府  ·  Lesser Mansion

Location

On the palm, between the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones, where the tip of the little finger rests when a fist is made.

Anatomy

Between the fourth and fifth metacarpals, on the fourth lumbrical and interosseous muscles; the common palmar digital artery and vein; the fourth common palmar digital nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Clears heat from the Heart and Small Intestine
  • Calms the spirit
  • Benefits the chest and the genitals

Indications

Palpitations, cardiac pain, mental-emotional restlessness, feverish palms, itching or pain of the genitals, and enuresis or urinary retention.

Needling

0.3-0.5 cun, perpendicular insertion.

Moxibustion Suitability

Moxibustion is generally not used, as this is a heat-clearing point.

Point Combinations

With HT-7 for palpitations and restlessness; with REN-3 for genital and urinary disorders.

Classical Text References

The Ying-Spring (Fire) point of the Heart, classically used to clear Heart fire.

Cautions & Contraindications

None specific beyond standard precautions.

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

Pub Med

Tai Chi reduces inflammation and insomnia

Background: Insomnia contributes to inflammation in breast cancer survivors. This study evaluates whether insomnia treatment reverses …