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This is the Front-Mu (alarm) point of the Small Intestine and one of the most important tonification points in the body. It nourishes the source (yuan) qi, tonifies the Kidney and benefits the uterus, and is a key point for deficiency and exhaustion.
Location
On the lower abdomen, on the anterior midline, 3 cun inferior to the umbilicus.
Anatomy
On the linea alba; the inferior epigastric and superficial epigastric arteries; the twelfth intercostal nerve.
Actions & Functions
- Tonifies and benefits the source (yuan) qi and original essence
- Tonifies the Kidney and warms the lower burner (yang)
- Nourishes blood and benefits the uterus; regulates menstruation
- Restores collapse of yang (with moxa) and roots the spirit
Indications
Exhaustion and general deficiency, chronic fatigue, impotence and seminal emission, infertility, irregular and painful menstruation, frequent or difficult urination, chronic diarrhoea, and collapse with cold limbs (large moxa).
Needling
0.8-1.2 cun, perpendicular insertion.
Moxibustion Suitability
Highly suitable - a principal point for moxibustion to tonify the source qi, warm yang and rescue collapse.
Point Combinations
With ST-36 and KI-3 to tonify the source qi; with REN-6 and DU-4 for yang deficiency; with SP-6 for gynaecological disorders.
Classical Text References
The Front-Mu point of the Small Intestine and a meeting point with the three leg yin channels; a key point for the cultivation of life.
Cautions & Contraindications
Empty the bladder before insertion. Contraindicated for needling in pregnancy.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.
