Governing Vessel
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DU-28
Exit Point
Safety Warnings
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
- Moxibustion contraindicated
Needle Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Face — Perioral
Location
Between the upper lip and the upper labial gingiva, in the frenulum of the upper lip.
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and benefits the gums
- Benefits the nose and eyes
Indications
Eye pain
Red face
Jaundice
Sore nose
Stiff neck
Painful gums
Nasal polyps
Blocked nose
Canthus pain
Swelling gums
Bleeding gums
Forehead pain
Blurred vision
Excessive tear
Canthus itching
Commentary
Yinjiao DU-28 is most used to clear Heat, especially from the eyes, gums and mouth. Therefore, it can treat symptoms such as swelling, bleeding and painful gums, blurred vision, pain and itchiness of eyes or canthus.
It also benefits nose and face and ease related disorders.
Classical Sources
Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): "Yinjiao is located at the junction of the upper lip frenulum and the gum. It is the meeting point of the Du Mai, Ren Mai, and the Stomach channel."
Su Wen (Plain Questions): References this point in the context of the Du Mai's pathway ascending to the upper teeth and gums.
Zhen Jiu Da Cheng (Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): "For swelling and pain of the gums, redness of the face, and nasal obstruction, needle Yinjiao."
How to Locate
Hold the upper lip in a raised position in order to reveal the frenulum and the upper gum. Locate Yinjiao DU-28 on the midline, at the junction of the frenulum with the upper gum.
Caution
Do not puncture the frenulum directly. Use only shallow oblique insertion directed superiorly. This point is located inside the mouth on delicate oral mucosa - maintain strict hygiene and use appropriate needle gauge. The area is highly sensitive with rich nerve supply. Pricking to cause bleeding is the preferred technique for acute Heat conditions. Not suitable for moxibustion, cupping, or gua sha due to intraoral location.
Needle Angle
45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needling Directions
0.1–0.2 cun obliquely in a superior direction or prick to bleed. Do not puncture the frenulum.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distending or sharp sensation at the gum and frenulum. Due to the sensitive nature of the oral mucosa, the sensation is typically more acute than other points. Pricking to bleed produces immediate release without propagated sensation.
Moxibustion
Contraindicated
Duration: N/A
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Particularly Recommended
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
Special Point Classifications
Exit Point
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