Heart Meridian
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HT-3
Water-Shui
Sea-He Point
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Elbow
Location
When the elbow is flexed slightly, Shaohai HE-3 is at the medial end of the transverse cubital crease, in the depression radius to the medial epicondyle of the humerus.
Main Actions
- Removes Channel Stagnation
- Calms the Mind
- Clears Heat
Indications
Commentary
Shaohai HE-3 is mostly used to clears Fire or Heat in the Heart regardless being Full or Empty Heat. Therefore, one of its most important functions is to calm the Mind, so as to ease manic behavior, mental restlessness or anxiety. It is also able to reduce redness in the eyes.
On the other hand, it can be stimulated to remove Stagnation from the Channel. Therefore, it can treat symptoms such as pain in the Heart, axilla and elbow as well as chest fullness.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot) - Root and Knot Chapter: This foundational text establishes HT-3 as the He-Sea point where the Heart channel Qi enters deeply like water flowing into the sea.
Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Lists indications including heart pain, elbow and arm spasms, scrofula, head and neck pain, and axillary-hypochondriac pain.
Classical Meaning: The name "Shaohai" (Lesser Sea) refers to its position on the Shaoyin (Lesser Yin) channel where Qi accumulates like water gathering in a sea. The "Shao" indicates the Shaoyin channel, while "Hai" (sea) signifies its role as the He-Sea point where channel Qi is abundant and deep.
How to Locate
This point should be located with the elbow slightly flexed and the forearm in a supinated position. Find the ulnar end of the transverse cubital crease and palpate towards the medial epicondyle of the humerus. Shaohai HE-3 is located in a depression approximately midway between Quze P-3 and the medial epicondyle. Another method, with the elbow fully flexed, HE-3 is located directly at the medial end of the transverse crease.
Caution
The ulnar nerve passes near this point, so careful needling technique is required to avoid nerve irritation. The basilic vein (贵要静脉) runs superficially in this area - avoid visible veins when inserting. Some classical sources contraindicate moxibustion at this point, though modern practice generally permits it with caution. Obtain deqi gently rather than aggressively manipulating the needle.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
0.5–1.5 cun obliquely in a distal or proximal direction or vertically towards Quchi LI-11, which is also on the elbow.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distention and soreness at the elbow. An electric or numb sensation often radiates through the forearm toward the wrist and hand. Some patients experience a warm sensation along the Heart channel pathway.
Moxibustion
Questionable
Duration: 10–15 minutes (some classical sources consider moxa contraindicated at this point)
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
Five Element & Transporting Classification
Five Phase
Water-Shui
Transporting Type
Sea-He Point
Mother-Child Role
Child (Reducing)
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