Directing Vessel
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REN-23
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Neck — Anterior
Location
On the anterior midline of the neck, above the Adm's apple, in the depression at the upper border of the hyoid bone.
Main Actions
- Benefits the tongue and voice
- Descends Qi
Indications
Commentary
Lianquan REN-13 is often applied to treat aphasia or or tongue stiffness following Wind-stroke.
Due to its special location at the root of the tongue, it has impact on Body Fluids production in the mouth. Thus it can treat throat and mouth dryness and ulcers.
It is also able to subdue Rebellious Lung Qi so as to relieve coughing, wheezing, short of breath and vomiting of foamy saliva.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot), Chapter 'Hot Diseases': First mentions Lianquan as a point for treating tongue and throat disorders.
Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): "Located below the chin, above the laryngeal prominence, below the root of the tongue" (在頷下，結喉上，舌本下). Lists indications including tongue relaxation with drooling, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness.
Zhen Jiu Da Cheng (Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Describes Lianquan as effective for wind-stroke aphasia, tongue stiffness, sudden loss of voice, and throat bi-obstruction.
How to Locate
Palpate the hyoid bone which is a delicate bony structure and it is located above the upper border of the laryngeal prominence. Lianquan REN-23 is on the upper border of the hyoid bone and on the midline of the neck.
Caution
This point is located in a sensitive area near the hyoid bone and root of the tongue. Needle obliquely toward the tongue root—never deeply or perpendicular, as this risks injury to blood vessels and the epiglottis. The anterior jugular vein and branches of the superior thyroid artery run nearby. Do not retain needles for extended periods, as swallowing movements during retention may bend or break the needle. Patients with swallowing difficulties or excessive gag reflex require extra care. Moxibustion should be applied cautiously if at all due to the delicate throat structures.
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
0.3–1 cun obliquely in a superior direction towards the vertex.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and fullness at the point site. Sensation of tightness or constriction may radiate to the root of the tongue and throat area. Some patients report a sensation spreading toward the base of the tongue that can feel slightly uncomfortable but indicates proper needle placement.
Moxibustion
Questionable
Duration: 10-15 minutes (use with caution)
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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