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Rugen (ST-18), “Breast Root”, below the breast, is the principal local point for breast disorders and promotes lactation.
Location
On the chest, in the fifth intercostal space, directly below the nipple, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Anatomy
On pectoralis major and the external intercostals; the intercostal and lateral thoracic arteries; the fifth intercostal nerve.
Actions & Functions
- Benefits the breast and promotes lactation
- Unbinds the chest and descends rebellious qi
Indications
Insufficient lactation, mastitis and breast pain, cough and asthma, and chest pain.
Needling
0.3-0.5 cun, oblique or transverse insertion.
Moxibustion Suitability
Moxibustion may be used, classically to promote lactation.
Point Combinations
With SI-1 and ST-36 for insufficient lactation; with SP-18 for breast disorders.
Classical Text References
The chief local point for the breast.
Cautions & Contraindications
Deep perpendicular insertion risks pneumothorax; needle obliquely or transversely.
Latest Research
Latest peer-reviewed research on this point will be summarised here, with citations linked to PubMed, via our research integration.