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Getting the "Point" of Acupuncture
Many of us have become regulars at the acupuncture clinic.
We walk into the clinic suffering – in pain or stressed out. We complain to the acupuncturist, who listens kindly. Then we lie down, the acupuncturist taps tiny needles into our legs and arms, and we doze for a precious half hour. We walk out calm, unburdened, able to smile at strangers again, and free of the debilitating headache, sciatica, etc. that prompted the visit.
What are the magic acupuncture points that make us feel better?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) trains acupuncturists in a system of more than 350 acupoints. Like whirlpools on a river, these points are entrances to the body's flow of Qi, or vital life energy, as it traverses our energy channels. Some of the most commonly used points, and a few of their effects, are highlighted here.
A note of caution: Consult a licensed acupuncturist for treatment. Some acupoints are forbidden in special physical conditions, such as pregnancy.
1. Stomach 36* (ST36) is a wildly popular point. Its Chinese name – Zu San Li, or Leg Three Miles – reflects an ancient idea that stimulating this point, which is found on the lower leg, enables an exhausted person to walk three more miles. Research shows that ST36 can boost immunity as it incites the body to break down bacteria and kill viruses. It regulates digestion by increasing gastric acid or digestive enzymes, or quieting pyloric spasms (which can cause vomiting).
2. Stomach 12 (ST12), also known as Que Pen (Broken Bowl, or Empty Basin) is found above the collarbone, near the lungs. Its role is to "descend Qi," so it counteracts the uprising of Qi from the lungs, such as cough or asthma. This point can also treat sore throat, chills, and fever.
3. Spleen 6 (SP6) is San Yin Jiao, or Three Yin Intersection, because it's the meeting point of the three yin channels of the leg (Spleen, Liver, and Kidney). Found on the inner lower leg, one hand-width above the ankle bone, this point excels at treating digestive disorders like diarrhea, bloating, and lack of appetite. It's great for women's complaints, from irregular menstruation to reproductive problems. One textbook claims: "Spleen 6 is the single most important distal point in the treatment of any gynecological, obstetrical or post-partum disorder."
4. Pericardium 6 (PC6) – Neiguan, or Inner Pass – is on the inner aspect of the wrist. The pericardium is a physical sheath around the heart, also known as "heart protector," so this point benefits the chest, including heart and lungs. Whether the trouble is angina pectoris, irregular heartbeat, or cough, PC6 is likely to help. In Chinese medicine the heart is believed to store the spirit, so PC6 also calms spirit-related, emotional distresses like nervousness and fear. Since the channel plunges into the stomach and intestines, PC6 powerfully treats nausea and vomiting, whether from motion sickness, pregnancy or chemotherapy.
5. Large Intestine 4 (LI4) is called He Gu, or Joining Valley, for its location in the "valley" between thumb and index finger on the back of the hand. Since this meridian crosses the face and head, LI4 is excellent for headaches, common cold, or problems affecting eyes, nose, and teeth. Like several other points, it's said to induce labor, so is contraindicated in pregnancy.
6. Liver 3 (LV3) is Tai Chong, Great Rushing. The liver helps Qi flow freely and easily, preventing "Qi stagnation" (pain, bloating, anger, or other imbalances). LV3 is essential for spreading Qi, regulating menstruation, and helping the head and eyes. Found on the foot between the first and second metatarsal bones, LV3 is often teamed with its upper counterpart, LI4 (between the first and second metacarpals), in an elegant combination called Four Gates, which treats all kinds of painful disorders.
**Each point has a Chinese name as well as a name based on its channel and number. For example, Stomach 36 is the 36th point on the Stomach channel.
Sources:
- Author's class notes from Acupuncture Points course with Dr. Ning X. Fu, Five Branches University, San Jose, CA, Spring 2007.
- Deadman, Peter and Al-Khafaji, Mazin: A Manual of Acupuncture, Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications, 2006.
- Kuoch, David J.: Acupuncture Desk Reference, Acumedwest, 2007.
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