Stomach Meridian
View all acupuncture points on this meridian and explore the channel pathway.
View meridian
ST-26
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
1 cun below the umbilicus, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Main Actions
- Invigorates Qi and eases pain
Indications
Commentary
Wailing ST-26 is not a major point of the Stomach Channel. It is more an assistant role in regulating Qi in the Lower Burner. Therefore it eases pain and distention of the abdomen.
Furthermore, it can treat painful period or amenorrhea.
Classical Sources
Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (针灸甲乙经 - Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Records Wailing for the treatment of abdominal pain, hernia conditions, and disorders of the lower abdomen.
Zhenjiu Dacheng (针灸大成 - Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion): Lists ST-26 among the Stomach channel points on the abdomen, indicating its use for cold in the abdomen, pain, and menstrual disorders.
How to Locate
There are 5 cun between the umbilicus and the upper border of the pubic symphysis. Wailing ST-26 is located 1 cun below the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Caution
Located in the lower abdominal region where deep needling in thin patients may penetrate the peritoneal cavity and potentially injure underlying intestines. Use shallow to moderate depth insertion with careful attention to patient body type. Contraindicated during pregnancy due to its strong Qi-moving action in the lower abdomen and proximity to the uterus. Pregnant patients should avoid both needling and moxibustion at this point.
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
Localized distension and soreness around the point, which may radiate across the lower abdomen. Some patients may feel the sensation extend toward the umbilicus or lower toward the groin area.
Moxibustion
Recommended
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Cupping
Questionable
Bloodletting
N/A
Gua Sha
Questionable
Related Resources
Browse All Points
Explore the complete collection of acupuncture points across all meridians.
View all meridians