Extraordinary Vessel DAI

Girdle Vessel

带脉 | Dài Mài

Girdle Vessel

Girdle Vessel pathway diagram

Images shown are for educational purposes only

Quick Facts

Associated Organ

Liver

Flow Direction

Centrifugal (away from torso)

Extraordinary Vessel Details

Master Point: Zulingqi GB-41
Coupled Point: Waiguan SJ-5
Paired Vessel: Yang Linking Vessel

Overview

The Girdle Vessel is like a belt going around the abdomen and the back. It is the only horizontal Vessel in the body, which is divided into upper and lower parts.

Channel Pathways

The Girdle Vessel consists of multiple channel systems, each with its own pathway and clinical significance.

Pathway Description

As its name indicates, the Girdle Vessel is like a belt around the abdomen and back, dividing the body into the upper and lower halves. 

  • It originates from the hypochondrium area around Zhangmen LIV-13. 
  • It then runs down to Daimai GB-26, Wushu GB-27 and Weidao GB-28 on the side abdomen, above the hip.
  • In the front, the pathway connects the two points of GB-28. 
  • In the back, it connects the two points of LIV-13, at the level of Shenshu BL-23 which is on the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumber vertebra (L2). This is where the vessel crosses the Kidney Divergent Channel.

Acupuncture Points

Acupuncture points along the Girdle Vessel and related points from other channels.

Related Points from Other Channels

Zhangmen LR-13

Origin point of Dai Mai - where the vessel begins on the lateral ribs (Liver meridian)

Daimai GB-26

Primary crossing point - shares name with the vessel; located at waistline level

Wushu GB-27

Crossing point of the Girdle Vessel on the Gallbladder meridian

Weidao GB-28

Crossing point of the Girdle Vessel on the Gallbladder meridian

Shenshu BL-23

Connection point in the back via Kidney divergent channel

Zulingqi GB-41

Master (confluent) point - opens and activates the Girdle Vessel

Waiguan SJ-5

Coupled point - used together with GB-41 to treat Dai Mai pathologies

Detailed Information

In-depth information about the Girdle Vessel and its clinical significance.

As its name indicates, the Girdle Vessel is like a belt going around the abdomen and the back. It is the only horizontal vessel of the body, which is divided into upper and lower parts.  

It interrelates with and encircles other channels and inserts its influence over them. It has a close relationship with the Liver and Gallbladder, as it influences the smooth flow of Liver Qi. It also regulates the Spleen Qi ascending and Kidney Qi descending. It directs and promotes the Uterus Qi and Essence flows. 

It harmonizes Qi circulation to and from the legs and upper body. If this Qi is not constrained, legs get cold so that Dampness invades the Lower Burner. Therefore, the vessel can be used to drain Dampness in the Lower Burner. 

The Girdle Vessel has a particularly important impact on gynecologic issues, especially Excessive vaginal discharge. It is also said to be useful in treating back pain, abdominal issues or hip-related diseases.

Related Resources

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