What is Eye Hyperemia?

Eye hyperemia, commonly known as bloodshot eyes, is characterized by an excess of blood in the vessels of the conjunctiva, causing the eyes to appear red. This condition can arise from various causes, such as inflammation, irritation, fatigue, or underlying health issues. Symptoms include visible redness, particularly in the inner or outer corners of the eye. Understanding the underlying cause of this redness is essential for proper treatment and relief.

How does TCM view Eye Hyperemia?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches eye hyperemia as a manifestation of internal disharmony. According to TCM, the eyes are closely connected to the Liver, and conditions affecting the eyes are often indicative of Liver dysfunction.

TCM identifies patterns of disharmony such as Heat or Wind causing the redness and irritation seen in eye hyperemia. Treatment focuses on restoring balance and addressing the root cause, using a combination of herbs, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments.

Root Causes of Eye Hyperemia in TCM

TCM recognizes several underlying patterns that can lead to eye hyperemia. One common cause is Liver Fire insulting the Lungs, marked by symptoms like shortness of breath, cough, and bloodshot eyes.

Another pattern, Liver Fire Blazing, is characterized by red eyes, irritability, and headaches. These conditions are treated through specific herbal formulas designed to clear Heat and soothe the Liver. Identifying the correct TCM pattern is crucial for effective treatment.

Explore below more details about what might cause Eye hyperemia according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Common Symptoms: Flushed Face Thirst Constipation Irritability Headaches Dizziness Bitter Taste In The Mouth Anger

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs Bloodshot eyes, Shortness of breath, Asthma, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Headaches, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang
Liver Fire Blazing Red eyes, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Cough of blood, Vomiting blood... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Xie Qing Wan
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Red eyes, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Red eyes, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Red eyes, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat Red eyes, Toothache, Headaches, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast lumps... see more Gua Lou San | Yu Nu Jian | Wen Dan Tang
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Red eyes, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Wind

In TCM "Wind" is a concept that represents a pattern of disharmony, often characterized by its sudden and unpredictable nature, much like a gusty wind changing direction without warning. This pattern is associated with symptoms that come and go quickly or move around the body, such as itching, tremors, or even certain types of pain. Wind is considered to be a primary cause of illnesses that have these rapidly changing characteristics. In TCM, external Wind often refers to illnesses that start suddenly, like the common cold, believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors like climatic changes. On the other hand, internal Wind can be linked to internal imbalances and can manifest in conditions like dizziness or spasms. ... see more

Wind Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Common Symptoms: Irritability Flushed Face Dizziness Tremors Headaches Insomnia Anger Deafness

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Interior Wind Red eyes, Convulsions, Hand tremor, Dizziness, Paralysis, Coma, Tic disorder, Mouth deviation, Eye deviation, Tremors, Headaches, Limb numbness... see more Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin | Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Bu Gan Tang | Si Wu Tang
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Red eyes, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Red eyes, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Common Symptoms: Irritability Excessive Menstruation Menstrual Cramps Spontaneous Sweat Dry Mouth Palpitations Lower Abdominal Oppression Painful Urination

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Red eyes, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Red eyes, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Red eyes, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Cold

In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more

Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Wind Cold with Internal Heat Red eyes, High fever, Severe chills, Lack of sweating, Headaches, Feeling of heaviness, General sensation of tightness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Dry nose, Thirst, Irritability, Insomnia, Cough of blood, Mottled skin... see more Shi Gao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Flushed Face Thirst Bitter Taste In The Mouth Constipation Irritability Anger Dry Stools

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs Bloodshot eyes, Shortness of breath, Asthma, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Headaches, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang
Liver Fire Blazing Red eyes, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Cough of blood, Vomiting blood... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Dang Gui Long Hui Wan | Xie Qing Wan
Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire Red eyes, Tremors, Irritability, Anger, Tinnitus, Deafness, Temporal headache, Dizziness, Flushed face, Eye hyperemia, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Vivid dreaming, Constipation, Dry stools, Dark urine, Nosebleeds, Vomiting blood, Cough of blood... see more Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang | Zi Xue Dan | Feng Yin Tang
Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire Red eyes, Hypochondriac distention, Upper abdominal distension, Stifling sensation in the chest, Irritability, Melancholia, Depression, Mood swings, Globus sensation, Feeling of heat, Flushed face, Thirst, Anger, Pre menstrual tension, Irregular periods, Pre menstrual breast distension, Excessive menstruation... see more Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Red eyes, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Fire insulting the Lungs Bloodshot eyes, Shortness of breath, Asthma, Hypochondriac pain and discomfort, Cough with yellow or blood tinged sputum, Headaches, Dizziness, Flushed face, Thirst, Bitter taste in the mouth, Eye hyperemia, Scanty and dark urine, Constipation... see more Long Dan Xie Gan Tang | Ke Xie Fang
Detailed description of the cause

Stomach

In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more

Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat Red eyes, Toothache, Headaches, Stomatitis, Periodontitis, Glossitis, Trigeminal neuralgia, Diabetes, Viral myocarditis, Breast engorgement, Breast lumps... see more Gua Lou San | Yu Nu Jian | Wen Dan Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Eye Hyperemia

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Red eyes, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Eye Hyperemia

TCM utilizes a range of herbal formulas to address eye hyperemia. Long Dan Xie Gan Tang, containing Chinese Gentian, is frequently used for conditions like Liver Fire Blazing or Liver Fire insulting the Lungs. This formula is effective in clearing Heat and dampness, often associated with red eyes.

Additionally, Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin and Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang are recommended for Internal Wind patterns that can also lead to eye hyperemia. These formulas are selected based on the specific pattern of disharmony in the patient, ensuring a tailored treatment approach.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address eye hyperemia, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Formulas that clear heat from the organs
  • Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that stop bleeding
  • Formulas that clear heat and resolve toxicity
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that clear heat and open sensory orifices
  • Formulas that dredge and disperse external wind
  • Formulas that dry dampness and transform phlegm
  • Formulas that clear liver-Heat
  • Formulas that release the exterior and clear the interior

All Formulas Recommended for Eye Hyperemia Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Liver Fire insulting the Lungs, Liver Fire Blazing
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Ke Xie Fang Liver Fire insulting the Lungs
Gua Lou San Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
Yu Nu Jian Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
Wen Dan Tang Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Xie Qing Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Zi Xue Dan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Eye Hyperemia Caused by Wind

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind
Zi Xue Dan Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Feng Yin Tang Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Shi Gao Tang Wind Cold with Internal Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Eye Hyperemia Caused by Qi Stagnation

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San Stagnant Liver Qi turning into Fire

All "formulas that clear heat from the organs" recommended for eye hyperemia

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang Liver Fire insulting the Lungs, Liver Fire Blazing
Dang Gui Long Hui Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Xie Qing Wan Liver Fire Blazing
Yu Nu Jian Stomach Fire or Stomach Heat

All "formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind" recommended for eye hyperemia

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang Interior Wind, Liver Wind agitating Internally due to Liver Fire
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin Interior Wind
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang Interior Wind
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang Interior Wind

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for eye hyperemia

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Interior Wind
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Interior Wind

All "formulas that tonify blood" recommended for eye hyperemia

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bu Gan Tang Interior Wind
Si Wu Tang Interior Wind

Acupoints for Eye Hyperemia

In TCM, acupuncture is another key treatment modality for eye hyperemia. Acupoints such as Diwuhui GB-42 and Fengchi GB-20 on the Gall Bladder Channel are targeted to resolve Liver Qi Stagnation and benefit the eyes.

Points like Jingming BL-1 and Kunlun BL-60 in the Bladder Channel are also utilized for their effectiveness in clearing Heat and expelling Wind, which are often underlying factors in eye hyperemia. These acupoints are selected based on the individual's specific TCM diagnosis and the patterns of disharmony observed.

Explore below some acupoints used to address eye hyperemia, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Gall Bladder Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Kidney Channel
  • Large Intestine Channel
  • Triple Burner Channel
  • Small Intestine Channel
  • Heart Channel
  • Stomach Channel
  • Extra Points: Head and Neck (EX-HN)
  • Extra Points: Upper Extremities (EX-UE)
  • Pericardium Channel
  • Liver Channel
Tongziliao GB-1

Tongziliao GB-1

Lateral to the outer canthus, in the depression on the lateral side of the orbit.

Toulinqi GB-15

Toulinqi GB-15

Directly above Yangbai GB-14, on the pupil line, 0.5 cun within the hairline, midway between Shenting DU-24 and Touwei ST-8.

Muchuang GB-16

Muchuang GB-16

1 cun posterior to the Toulingqi GB-15 or 1.5 cun posterior to the anterior hairline, on the pupil line which is 2.25 cun lateral to the midline.

Naokong GB-19

Naokong GB-19

Directly above Fengchi GB-20, level with Naohu DU-17, on the lateral side of the external occipital protuberance.

Fengchi GB-20

Fengchi GB-20

In the posterior aspect of the neck, below the occipital bone, in the depression between the upper portion of sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscle.

Guangming GB-37

Guangming GB-37

5 cun directly above the tip of the external malleolus, on the anterior border of the fibula.

Qiuxu GB-40

Qiuxu GB-40

Anterior and inferior to the external malleolus, in the depression on the lateral side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle that goes to the little toe.

Zulingqi GB-41

Zulingqi GB-41

In the depression distal to the junction of the 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, on the lateral side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle of the foot.

Diwuhui GB-42

Diwuhui GB-42

Between the 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, on the medial side of the tendon of extensor digitorum longus muscle of the little toe.

Zuqiaoyin GB-44

Zuqiaoyin GB-44

On the lateral side of the 4th toe, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Jingming BL-1

Jingming BL-1

0.1 cun superior and medial to the inner canthus.

Zanzhu BL-2

Zanzhu BL-2

On the medial extremity of the eyebrow, or on the supraorbital notch.

Tianzhu BL-10

Tianzhu BL-10

1.3 cun lateral to Yamen DU-15 on the posterior midline, 0.5 cun above the posterior hairline, on the lateral side of trapezius muscle.

Ganshu BL-18

Ganshu BL-18

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra (T9).

Kunlun BL-60

Kunlun BL-60

In the depression between the tip of the lateral malleolus and the Achilles tendon.

Shenmai BL-62

Shenmai BL-62

In the depression directly below the lateral malleolus tip.

Jinggu BL-64

Jinggu BL-64

On the lateral side of the foot dorsum, below the tuberosity of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.

Shugu BL-65

Shugu BL-65

On the lateral side of the foot dorsum, proximal to the head of the 5th metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.

Zutonggu BL-66

Zutonggu BL-66

In the depression distal and inferior to the 5th metatarsophalangeal joint, at the lateral border of the foot.

Zhiyin BL-67

Zhiyin BL-67

On the lateral side of the little toe, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Zhaohai KID-6

Zhaohai KID-6

Approximately 1 cun below the medial malleolus tip, over the joint space between the talus and the calcaneus.

Henggu KID-11

Henggu KID-11

5 cun below the umbilicus, on the upper border of symphysis pubis, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline. It is at the same level as Qugu REN-2 which is at the anterior midline.

Dahe KID-12

Dahe KID-12

4 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Qixue KID-13

Qixue KID-13

3 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Zhongzhu KID-15

Zhongzhu KID-15

1 cun below the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shangqu KID-17

Shangqu KID-17

2 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Shiguan KID-18

Shiguan KID-18

3 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Yindu KID-19

Yindu KID-19

4 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Futonggu KID-20

Futonggu KID-20

5 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Hegu LI-4

Hegu LI-4

Between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones, approximately in the middle of the 2nd metacarpal bone on the radial side.

Yangxi LI-5

Yangxi LI-5

On the radial side of the wrist. When the thumb is tilted upward, it is in the depression on the wrist joint space (wrist crease) between the tendons of extensor pollicis longus and brevis muscles.

Pianli LI-6

Pianli LI-6

3 cun above Yangxi LI-5, on the line joining Yangxi LI-5 and Quchi LI-11.

Wenliu LI-7

Wenliu LI-7

When a fist is made, with the ulnar side downward and elbow flexed, the point is 5 cun above Yangxi LI-5 at the wrist crease, 1 cun distal to the midpoint of the line joining Yangxi LI-5 and Quchi LI-11.

Quchi LI-11

Quchi LI-11

When the elbow is flexed, Quchi LI-11 is in the depression at the lateral end of the cubital crease, midway between Chize LU-5 and the lateral epicondyle of the humerus.

Binao LI-14

Binao LI-14

On the radial side of the humerus, superior to the lower end of deltoid muscle, on the line connecting Quchi LI-11 and Jianyu LI-15, 7 cun proximal to Quchi LI-11.

Yingxiang LI-20

Yingxiang LI-20

In the nasolabrial groove, at the level of the midpoint of the lateral border of ala nasi.

Guanchong TB-1

Guanchong TB-1

On the lateral side of the ring finger, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Yemen TB-2

Yemen TB-2

Proximal to the margin of the web between the ring and small fingers.

Zhongzhu TB-3

Zhongzhu TB-3

When the hand is placed with the palm facing downward, Zhongzhu TB-3 is on the hand dorsum between the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones, in the depression proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joints, at the junction between the heads and shaft of the two metacarpal bones.

Waiguan TB-5

Waiguan TB-5

2 cun above Yangchi TB-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.

Zhigou TB-6

Zhigou TB-6

3 cun above Yangchi ST-4 at the dorsal wrist joint space, between the radius and ulna.

Sizhukong TB-23

Sizhukong TB-23

In the depression at the lateral end of the eyebrow.

Shaoze SI-1

Shaoze SI-1

On the ulnar side of the little finger, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Qiangu SI-2

Qiangu SI-2

On the ulnar aspect of the little finger, distal to the metacarpophalangeal joint, at the junction of the shaft and the base of the proximal phalanx.

Houxi SI-3

Houxi SI-3

Proximal to the head of the 5th metacarpal bone on the ulnar side, in the depression at the junction of the red and white skin.

Yanggu SI-5

Yanggu SI-5

On the ulnar side of the wrist, in the depression between the styloid process of the ulna and the triquetral bone.

Shaohai HE-3

Shaohai HE-3

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.

Lingdao HE-4

Lingdao HE-4

On the radial side of the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris, 1.5 cun above the transverse crease of the wrist when the palm faces upward.

Tongli HE-5

Tongli HE-5

On the radial side of the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, 1 cun above the transverse crease of the wrist when the palm faces upward.

Shaochong HE-9

Shaochong HE-9

On the radial side of the little finger, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Chengqi ST-1

Chengqi ST-1

Between the eyeball and the midpoint of the infraorbital ridge.

Sibai ST-2

Sibai ST-2

Below Chengqi ST-1, in the depression at the infraorbital foramen.

Jiexi ST-41

Jiexi ST-41

At the junction of the dorsum of the foot and leg, between the tendons of extensor digitorum and the extensor hallucis longus muscle. Approximately at the level of the tip of the external malleolus.

Yuyao EX-HN-4

Yuyao EX-HN-4

When the patient looks straight forward, Yuyao EX-HN-4 is located directly above the pupil, in the midline of the eyebrow.

Taiyang EX-HN-5

Taiyang EX-HN-5

At the temple, in the tender depression approximately 1 cun posterior to the midpoint between the lateral extremity of the eyebrow and the outer canthus of the eye.

Erjian EX-HN-6

Erjian EX-HN-6

On the apex of the ear.

Baxie EX-UE-9

Baxie EX-UE-9

This is a group of 8 points in both hand, 4 points per each hand. Slightly proximal to the margins of the webs between the fingers, on the border of the red and white skin.

Daling P-7

Daling P-7

In the depression in the middle of the transverse crease of the wrist, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis muscle.

Xingjian LIV-2

Xingjian LIV-2

Between the first and second toe, on the dorsum of the foot, 0.5 cun proximal to the interdigital fold.