Yangchi Point is located on the Hand Shaoyang Sanjiao Meridian. "Yang" refers to the Yang Qi of the celestial realm, while "chi" means a vessel that stores substances. The name of this acupoint suggests that it receives weak and moist Qi from the Zhongzhu Point and transforms it into Yang heat by absorbing external heat. It is like a pool where Yang Qi is generated, hence the name Yangchi. So, where exactly is Yangchi located and what are its functions?
Precise Location of Yangchi Point
According to the acupuncture point positioning, Yangchi Point is located in the depression on the ulnar side of the wrist, between the extensor tendons of the fingers.
Easy way to locate the acupoint: Extend your palm and forcefully bend it towards the back of your hand. You will be able to clearly see the extensor tendons of the fingers on the dorsal side of the wrist. Yangchi Point is located in the depression on the ulnar side of these tendons.
Anatomy of Yangchi Point
Yangchi Point is located at the joint between the ulna and the carpal bones, between the extensor tendon of the fingers and the intrinsic extensor tendon of the little finger. Under the skin, there are the dorsal veins of the wrist, dorsal arteries of the wrist, the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve, and the terminal branch of the posterior cutaneous nerve of the forearm.
Functions of Yangchi Point
Classification: Original point of the Hand Shaoyang Sanjiao Meridian.
Functions: Dispels wind and clears heat, harmonizes the Shaoyang, and regulates the meridians.
Effects: Yangchi Point is the original point of the Sanjiao Meridian, and it has the function of regulating the Sanjiao, promoting the flow of Qi between the superficial and deep layers, and clearing heat and stagnation in the Sanjiao. Therefore, it can be used to treat various head, face, and sensory disorders caused by the ascending of wind-heat along the meridian. As the original point of the Yang Qi, it can tonify the correct and expel the pathogenic factors. Being part of the Shaoyang, which is semi-superficial and semi-deep, needling this point can regulate the Sanjiao, harmonize the Shaoyang, and promote the expulsion of pathogenic factors. Therefore, it can be used to treat febrile diseases characterized by alternating chills and fever caused by pathogenic factors entering the semi-superficial and semi-deep layers, such as malaria. As a major point on the Sanjiao Meridian, it can clear heat and stagnation in the Sanjiao and is used to treat diabetes caused by excessive heat burning the Sanjiao and consuming Yin and fluids. Located on the exterior, it can regulate the meridians and treat elbow and arm pain, with the characteristic symptoms of wrist pain and weakness.
Common Combinations for Yangchi Point
For head and face disorders, it can be combined with Yifeng and Taiyang points. For malaria, it can be combined with Dazhui and Waiguan points. For diabetes, it can be combined with Pan Yu, Pi Yu, Wei Yu, Sanyinjiao, and Zhaohai points. For upper limb pain, it can be combined with Quchi and Waiguan points. For wrist pain and weakness, it can be combined with Yangxi and Yanggu points.
Massage Therapy for Yangchi Point
Grasp the wrist joint with one hand, bend the fingers, and press the acupoint vertically with the fingertip, applying enough pressure to produce a sour and slightly painful sensation. Press each acupoint on both sides for 1-3 minutes, 2-3 times a day. By persistently massaging the acupoint every day, blood circulation can be quickly improved, hormone secretion can be balanced, and it can help alleviate cold hands and feet, achieving the goal of warming the whole body.
