Conception Vessel 23 (REN 23) Lian Quan — Ridge Spring

This point, below the tongue at the throat, is the principal point for disorders of the tongue, speech and swallowing.

Conception Vessel 23 (REN 23) Lian Quan 廉泉 — Ridge Spring

Location

On the neck, on the anterior midline, in the depression above the hyoid bone, below the chin.

Anatomy

Above the hyoid bone; the anterior jugular vein; the cutaneous cervical nerve and the hypoglossal nerve, with the root of the tongue deep.

Actions & Functions

  • Benefits the tongue and resolves swelling
  • Promotes speech and swallowing
  • Descends rebellious qi and resolves phlegm

Indications

Stiffness, swelling or paralysis of the tongue, aphasia after windstroke, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, and loss of voice.

Needling

0.5-0.8 cun, directed towards the root of the tongue.

Moxibustion Suitability

Suitable for moxibustion.

Point Combinations

With HT-5 and DU-15 for speech disorders after windstroke.

Classical Text References

A meeting point with the Yin Wei Mai; the chief local point for the tongue.

Cautions & Contraindications

Direct towards the tongue root; avoid the vessels.

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.