Governing Vessel

Shenting DU-24

Chinese: 神庭

Pinyin: Shén Tíng

Location

On the head midline, 0.5 cun above the anterior hairline. 

How to locate

First locate the midpoint of the anterior hairline, measure 0.5 cun in a superior direction and locate Shenting DU-24. 

Main actions

  1. Calms and lifts the Mind
  2. Expels internal Wind
  3. Benefits the nose and eyes

Indications

Anxiety Vertigo Insomnia Epilepsy Dizziness Depression Runny nose Poor memory Bloody nose Opisthotonos Blocked nose Schizophrenia Manic behavior Excessive tear Blurred vision Allergic rhinitis

Needling

0.3–0.5 cun transversely. 

Commentary for Shenting DU-24

Shenting is translated to 'Courtyard of the Mind or Spirit', which indicates its great impact on both of them. The courtyard is one of the most important part of traditional Chinese house as it is the entrance and makes the first impression to visitors. 

Shenting DU-24 works as the entrance to the Mind and Spirit. It performs the downward movement such as subduing Rebellious Qi and Yang, so as to calm the Mind and open the Mind's orifices. Thus it is able to treat symptoms such as anxiety or insomnia. It is often used together with Benshen GB-13 in case of serious anxiety or fears. 

On the other hand, Shenting DU-24 can lift the Mind, to treat depression, sadness or poor memory. It is able to treat psychiatric issues as well such as schizophrenia. 

Like many of its neighboring points of the Governing Vessel, it also expels Interior Wind, so as to treat opisthotonos, epilepsy, dizziness or vertigo. 

Finally, Shenting DU-24 benefits the nose and eyes. Thus it is used to clear runny or blocked nose, nose blood, allergic rhinitis, blurred vision or lacrimation.