Stomach Channel

Rugen ST-18

Chinese: 乳根

Pinyin: Rǔ gēn

Location

In the 5nd intercostal space, on the mammillary line, 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline. 

How to locate

Rugeng ST-18 is locate on the mamillary line, which is 4 cun lateral to the anterior midline. 

The nipple (Ruzhong ST -17) is mostly located on the 4th intercostal space, while ST-18 is one intercostal space directly below the nipple. 

In women, ST-18 is normally found at the root of the breast. 

Main actions

  1. Benefits the breasts
  2. Regulates Qi in the chest

Indications

Coughing Mastitis Breast pain Breast lumps Breast swelling Low milk supply Breast hardness Clogged milk ducts Shortness of breath Difficulty swallowing Difficult breastfeeding Premenstrual breast distension Feeling of oppression of the chest

Needling

0.5–0.8 cun obliquely or transversely, parallel to the course of the intercostal space or with or against the channel pathway.

Caution: Pneumothorax.

Commentary for Rugen ST-18

Rugen ST-18 is a widely used local point for breast issues for women, especially for postpartum mothers. Typical symptoms are mastitis, clogged milk duck, difficult breastfeeding, or low milk supply. 

It can also be used to regulate Stomach Qi so as to benefit the breasts and chest. Manifestations includes coughing, short of breath, chest oppression or difficulty swallowing.