Stomach Meridian
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ST-27
Safety Warnings
- Dangerous point - requires extra caution
- Deep needling contraindicated - shallow insertion only
- Contraindicated during pregnancy
Needle Depth
1.0–1.5 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Body Area
Abdomen — Lower
Location
2 cun below the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Main Actions
- Regulates Qi in the Intestines and Stomach
- Resolves Dampness
- Firms the Essence
Indications
Commentary
Daju ST-27 is widely used to invigorate Qi in Intestines and the Stomach so as to ease abdominal distension, fullness and pain. It removes Qi Stagnation in the Lower Burner.
As a result, a stronger Qi helps to ease urination difficulties and retention.
Finally, it firms the Essence in men. Typical manifestations are premature ejaculation or seminal emissions.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (針灸甲乙經 - Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Lists Daju for the treatment of lower abdominal distension, difficult urination, and hernia.
Name Etymology: The name "Daju" (大巨 - Great Gigantic) refers to the point being located on the greatest prominence of the abdominal wall. The character "Da" (大) means large, and "Ju" (巨) means huge or gigantic, together describing how Qi and fluids occupy a vast region at this point, like a great shallow stream of the Stomach channel.
Alternative Names: Historical texts also refer to this point as "Yemen" (腋門 - Armpit Gate) or "Yemen" (液門 - Fluid Gate), both indicating its role as a gateway for the Stomach channel fluids.
How to Locate
There are 5 cun between the umbilicus and the upper border of the pubic symphysis. Daju ST-27 is located 2 cun below the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Caution
In thin patients, deep needling may penetrate the peritoneal cavity. Always assess body composition before needling and use appropriate depth. Avoid during pregnancy as this point can strongly move Qi in the lower abdomen. Be cautious in patients with abdominal surgery history or scarring in the area.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular)
Depth Category
Medium
Standard Depth
1.0–1.5 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically 0.5–1 cun. Caution: Peritoneum, pregnancy.
Expected Deqi Sensation
Deqi typically manifests as a distending, heavy, or aching sensation at the needling site, often radiating locally through the lower abdomen. Some patients may experience a warm sensation spreading through the lower abdominal region.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Questionable
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