Gall Bladder Meridian
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GB-16
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.3–0.5 cun
Needle Angle
10-15° (Transverse)
Body Area
Head — Temporal
Location
1 cun posterior to the Toulingqi GB-15 or 1.5 cun posterior to the anterior hairline, on the pupil line which is 2.25 cun lateral to the midline.
Main Actions
- Benefits the eyes
- Expels Wind
Indications
Commentary
Muchuang GB-16 is not an important point and it is rarely used in modern clinical practice.
Its main function is to benefit the eyes and can be used for any type of eye diseases.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (針灸甲乙經): Lists GB-16 as a meeting point of the Foot Shaoyang channel and the Yang Wei Mai (Yang Linking Vessel), establishing its role in connecting the defensive yang qi of the body.
Zhenjiu Dacheng (針灸大成): Indicates the point for treating red and painful eyes, headache, vertigo, and nasal obstruction, reflecting its name "Eye Window" and its location above the eye.
How to Locate
With the patient looking straight ahead, Muchuang GB-16 is located on the pupil line and 1.5 cun superior to the anterior hairline. This pupil line is 2.25 cun lateral to the midline.
Caution
This point is located on the skull. Only transverse (subcutaneous) needling should be used. Avoid perpendicular insertion. The skull provides protection, but proper angle is essential to prevent discomfort. This point is rarely used in modern clinical practice and is considered a minor point on the Gallbladder channel.
Needle Angle
10-15° (Transverse)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.3–0.5 cun
Needling Directions
0.3–1.5 cun transversely towards the occiput or the site of the disorder or pain.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension or numbness spreading across the scalp. Sensation may radiate toward the forehead or temporal region. Some patients experience a mild pulling sensation around the eye area.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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