Acupuncture is a traditional practice involving the insertion of thin needles at specific locations on the body to promote healing and restore balance. While the body contains hundreds of points, a few are recognized for their broad influence on physical processes. These points are frequently used by practitioners because they offer the most comprehensive therapeutic actions from a single location. This article focuses on identifying and explaining the actions of five foundational points cited for their versatility and effectiveness.
Understanding Point Selection in Acupuncture
The selection of an acupuncture point is rooted in the concept of Qi, or life energy, which circulates through defined pathways called meridians or channels. These channels connect the surface of the body to the internal organs, establishing a network that maintains the body’s overall function and balance. Major points are often situated where meridians are close to the surface or at junctures, influencing the flow of energy along the entire channel.
Points located on the limbs, known as distal points, are frequently used to treat conditions far from their location, such as using a hand point for a headache. This distant effect is explained by the meridian theory. Certain powerful points are categorized as “command points” because they regulate specific regions of the body, such as the head, abdomen, or chest. Practitioners use these points to trigger systemic changes rather than just addressing local symptoms.
The Five Foundational Acupuncture Points
These five foundational points are recognized for their robust individual actions and are frequently integrated into treatment protocols for a wide range of conditions. They are chosen because they address fundamental aspects of health, including pain, digestion, circulation, and mood regulation. Each point is associated with a specific channel and has unique therapeutic properties.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4)
This point, known as Hegu or “Joining Valley,” is located on the back of the hand, in the fleshy web between the thumb and the index finger. LI4 is regarded as a strong point for relieving pain, particularly in the face, head, and neck. It is also used to expel external pathogens, making it a common choice for treating the common cold, flu, and allergy symptoms. Stimulating this point helps regulate the Large Intestine channel, assisting with general elimination.
Liver 3 (LV3)
Known as Taichong or “Great Rushing,” LV3 is found on the top of the foot, in the depression where the bones of the big toe and the second toe meet. This point is used to ensure the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, making it a tool for alleviating stress, irritability, and tension headaches. By regulating the Liver channel, LV3 helps manage emotional issues and is used for conditions related to stagnation, such as menstrual irregularities and muscle spasms.
Stomach 36 (ST36)
ST36, or Zusanli (“Leg Three Miles”), is located just below the knee on the outside of the lower leg. It is the most famous point for strengthening and harmonizing the digestive system, as it stimulates the production of vital energy from food. This point is routinely used to improve overall energy, boost the immune system, and treat gastrointestinal disorders, including nausea, bloating, and fatigue. Stimulating ST36 is thought to promote general health and longevity, and some studies show it can activate various somatosensory regions of the brain.
Pericardium 6 (PC6)
Located on the inner forearm, PC6, or Neiguan (“Inner Pass”), is situated approximately two finger-widths above the wrist crease between the two central tendons. This point is renowned for its ability to calm the mind and regulate the chest, making it highly effective for treating anxiety, palpitations, and insomnia. PC6 is also frequently used for controlling nausea and vomiting, including chemotherapy-induced sickness and motion sickness.
Heart 7 (HT7)
HT7, or Shenmen (“Spirit Gate”), is found on the wrist crease, at the small depression on the pinky-finger side of the forearm. This point is specific to the Heart channel and is used to regulate the spirit and emotions. It is a calming point used to treat anxiety, emotional distress, and sleep disturbances like excessive dreaming or insomnia. Stimulating HT7 is believed to anchor the mind, providing a sense of peace and stability during periods of mental unrest.
General Treatment Strategy Using These Five Points
Practitioners frequently use combinations of these five points to create synergistic effects that address systemic imbalances. The most well-known combination is the “Four Gates,” which pairs LI4 on the hands with LV3 on the feet. This pairing is considered the ultimate combination for circulating Qi and blood throughout the entire body, making it a choice for widespread pain, muscle tension, and emotional stagnation.
When used together, these points regulate broad physiological systems rather than just treating local symptoms. For instance, combining the calming effect of HT7 and PC6 with the energy-boosting action of ST36 creates a protocol for patients experiencing chronic fatigue, anxiety, and digestive weakness. The five points serve as a baseline for almost any treatment plan because they cover the fundamental actions of pain relief, emotional balance, and digestive support. Their inclusion helps ensure that the body’s core regulatory mechanisms are addressed.