Stomach 21 (ST 21) Liang Men — Beam Gate

This point, on the upper abdomen, harmonises the Stomach, relieves food stagnation and is a major point for epigastric pain.

Stomach 21 (ST 21) Liang Men 梁門 — Beam Gate

Location

On the upper abdomen, 4 cun superior to the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline (level with CV-12).

Anatomy

On the rectus abdominis; the superior epigastric artery; the eighth intercostal nerve.

Actions & Functions

  • Harmonises the Stomach and relieves food stagnation
  • Descends rebellious qi and regulates qi

Indications

Epigastric pain and distension, poor appetite, vomiting, acid regurgitation, and loose stools with undigested food.

Needling

0.5-0.8 cun, perpendicular insertion.

Moxibustion Suitability

Moxibustion may be used.

Point Combinations

With CV-12 and ST-36 for epigastric pain and Stomach disorders.

Classical Text References

A principal point for the Stomach.

Cautions & Contraindications

On the right, avoid deep insertion (liver).

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine Improves Nutritional Status in Maintenance Haemodialysis Patients, Meta-Analysis Finds

Research summary (Traditional Chinese Medicine): Efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in improving nutritional status among Chinese maintenance hemodialysis patients: a meta-analysis of - Frontiers in nutrition, 2026.