Stomach Meridian
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ST-37
Needle Depth
1.0–2.0 cun
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular), 45° (Oblique)
Body Area
Lower Leg — Anterior
Location
6 cun below Dubi ST-35, on finger-breadth from the anterior crest of the tibia.
Main Actions
- Regulates the Stomach and Intestines and resolves food retention
- Resolves Damp-Heat
- Subdues Rebellious Qi
Indications
Commentary
Shangjuxu ST-37 is the Lower Sea point for the Large Intestine Channel, thus it regulates the Channel, just like how Zusanli ST-36 regulates the Stomach Channel. Typical patterns includes Food Stagnation and Damp-Heat in the Large Intestine, characterized by chronic diarrhoea, or stools that is loose and with mucus and blood.
On the other hand, it opens the chests by subduing Rebellious Qi. Typical manifestations are asthma and short of breath.
Classical Sources
Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot), Chapter 4: Establishes ST-37 as the Lower He-Sea point of the Large Intestine, stating that disorders of the Large Intestine Fu organ should be treated at this point.
Ling Shu, Chapter 33 (On the Sea): Lists ST-37 Shangjuxu as one of the lower points of the Sea of Blood (血海), along with ST-39 Xiajuxu, with BL-11 as the upper point.
Nan Jing (Classic of Difficulties): Clarifies that while the Large Intestine channel has its own points, diseases of the Large Intestine Fu should be treated through its Lower He-Sea point on the Stomach channel.
How to Locate
Locate Dubi ST-35 in the depression below the patella and lateral to the patellar ligament. Then locate Shangjuxu ST-37 by measuring 6 cun downwards and one middle finger-width lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia.
Caution
Avoid needling through varicose veins if present. The anterior tibial artery and deep peroneal nerve lie in the deeper layers—maintain proper depth and angle. Use caution in patients with peripheral neuropathy or compromised circulation in the lower limbs.
Needle Angle
90° (Perpendicular) / 45° (Oblique)
Depth Category
Deep
Standard Depth
1.0–2.0 cun
Needling Directions
Vertically or obliquely 1–1.5 cun
Expected Deqi Sensation
Typical deqi sensation includes distension, heaviness, and soreness at the point location, often radiating downward along the anterior leg toward the ankle or upward toward the knee. Some patients may experience a sensation spreading into the abdomen, reflecting the point's connection to the Large Intestine.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Recommended
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Recommended
Organ & Tissue Associations
Lower He-Sea Point for:
Large Intestine
Four Seas Classification
Sea Type:
Sea of Blood
Position:
Lower Point
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