Acupuncture
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EX-HN-11
Sun Si Miao Ghost Point
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
- Moxibustion contraindicated
Needle Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Face — Perioral
Location
Below the tongue, in the center of the frenulum, between Jinjin EX-HN-12 and Yuye EX-HN-13.
Main Actions
- Clears Heat and reduces swelling
- Generates Fluids
- Benefits the tongue
Indications
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Hiccuping
Tongue pain
Heavy tongue
Swollen tongue
Abdominal pain
Facial paralysis
Lotus flower tongue in children
Commentary
Due to its special location, Haiquan EX-HN-11 is not frequently used. Its main function is to treat acute or recalcitrant tongue disorders or facial paralysis.
It is included in Sun Si Miao's 'Thirteen ghost points'. Its other name is called Guifeng which is translated to 'Ghost Seal'.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot): Warns against needling this point "to excess" since it may lead to incessant bleeding and loss of voice.
Lei Jing Tu Yi (Illustrated Supplement to the Classic of Categories): Originally named this point Haiquan, noting its location under the tongue where body fluids emerge like an endless spring of water from the sea.
Qian Jin Yao Fang (Essential Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Gold): Lists Haiquan as Gui Feng (Ghost Seal), the 13th of the Thirteen Ghost Points for treating mental disorders, with bloodletting to prevent tongue movement.
How to Locate
Roll the tongue up so as to reveal the frenulum. Haiquan EX-HN-11 is located at the bottom of the frenulum.
Caution
Located in the oral cavity with sublingual artery, vein, hypoglossal nerve, and lingual nerve nearby. Risk of excessive bleeding if improperly needled—classical texts specifically warn against needling "to excess." Primarily used with three-edged needle for bloodletting rather than filiform needles. Ensure patient has no bleeding disorders before treatment. Maintain strict oral hygiene protocols. Not suitable for patients on anticoagulant therapy.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Shallow
Standard Depth
0.1–0.2 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.1 to 0.2 cun. Remove the needle quickly after short simulation.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Pricking sensation at the sublingual frenulum. No strong deqi sought—this point is primarily used for bloodletting rather than needle retention. Patients may experience localized soreness and increased salivation.
Moxibustion
Contraindicated
Duration: N/A
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Particularly Recommended
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
Special Point Classifications
Sun Si Miao Ghost Point
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