Liver Meridian
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LR-12
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
- Contraindicated during pregnancy
Needle Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Abdomen — Lower, Thigh — Medial
Location
Interior and lateral to the pubic spine, 2.5 cun lateral to the Qugu REN-2 on the anterior midline and 1 cun inferior to the upper border of the symphysis.
Main Actions
- Dispels Cold from the Liver Channel
- Benefits the Lower Burner
Indications
Commentary
Jimai LIV-12 is not a major point of the Liver Channel.
Its main function is to dispel Cold Evil from the Liver Channel and benefit the Lower Burner.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot): The Liver channel "enters the pubic hair region, encircles the genitals, reaches the lower abdomen" - describing how Jimai lies at the transition point where the channel enters the abdominal region.
Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture): Lists Jimai for treating hernia, genital pain, and lower abdominal disorders, noting its location at the femoral pulse in the inguinal region.
Zhen Jiu Da Cheng (Great Compendium of Acupuncture): Notes that this point treats "sudden pain of the lower abdomen" and disorders related to the Liver channel wrapping around the genitals.
How to Locate
Measure 2.5 cun in a lateral and 1 cun in an inferior direction from Qugu REN-2 which is on the upper border of the pubic symphysis. In this area, palpate the pulse of the femoral artery and locate LIV-12 medial to the artery.
Caution
This point is located in the inguinal region directly adjacent to the femoral artery and vein. Always palpate to identify and avoid the femoral artery before needling. Insert the needle medial to the pulsating artery. Some classical texts consider this point contraindicated for needling due to vascular proximity. Modern practice allows careful needling with proper technique. Avoid during pregnancy as stimulation of this area can affect the uterus and lower jiao circulation. Not suitable for cupping or gua sha due to location and vascular structures.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
0.5–1.0 cun
Needling Directions
Slightly obliquely 0.5-0.8 cun. The LIV-12 should be needled in a medial direction, at least 1 fingerbreadth from the femoral artery, since the femoral vein also runs medial to the artery. Caution: Femoral artery/vein. To avoid injury the vein, the classical book says the LIV-12 should not be needled due to its tricky location. Moxibustion is rather recommended. However, the modern book say the contrary.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Local distension or aching at the inguinal region. Some patients may feel a radiating sensation spreading to the lower abdomen or medial thigh. Due to proximity to the femoral artery, practitioners should be cautious and avoid the pulsating vessel. The sensation is often described as a deep, dull ache rather than sharp pain.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Cupping
Contraindicated
Bloodletting
Questionable
Gua Sha
Contraindicated
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