Gall Bladder Meridian
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GB-19
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
10-15° (Transverse)
Body Area
Head — Occipital
Location
Directly above Fengchi GB-20, level with Naohu DU-17, on the lateral side of the external occipital protuberance.
Main Actions
- Subdues Liver Yang
- Clears Heat in Gall Bladder Channel
Indications
Commentary
Like almost all Gall Bladder Channel points in the head, Naokong GB-19 subdues Liver Yang, characterized by headache and dizziness. On top of that, it has other functions such as clearing Heat in the head and Gall Bladder Channel.
Similar to other neighboring Gall Bladder Channel points, GB-19 also benefits the sense orifices.
Finally, it calms the Mind by communicating directly with the Brain.
Classical Sources
《针灸甲乙经》(Zhēn Jiǔ Jiǎ Yǐ Jīng - The Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): First classical text to document GB-19 Naokong. Describes its location lateral to the occipital bone and its connection to the brain, establishing it as a meeting point of the Gallbladder channel and Yang Wei Mai.
《针灸大成》(Zhēn Jiǔ Dà Chéng - The Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Lists the alternative name 颞颥 (niè rú) and includes GB-19 among points for treating head disorders and mental conditions. Documents the point's use for epilepsy, headache, and neck stiffness.
How to Locate
First locate Naohu DU-17 in a depression above the external occipital protuberance on the midline. Naokong GB-19 is 2.25 cun lateral to DU-17 at the same horizontal level.
Caution
Located over the occipital bone with relatively thin tissue coverage. Use transverse (subcutaneous) needling only—do not needle deeply or perpendicularly. The occipital artery and vein branches, as well as branches of the greater occipital nerve, are present in the area. Avoid strong manipulation in patients with thin scalps or those on anticoagulant therapy.
Needle Angle
10-15° (Transverse)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
0.3–1.5 cun transversely towards the occiput or the site of the disorder/pain.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension and heaviness at the occipital region. The sensation may radiate laterally across the scalp or toward the vertex. Some patients may experience a mild pulling sensation toward the temple or behind the ear.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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