Liver 3 – 太衝 Tài Chōng
One of the most commonly used acupuncture points in clinic, one of the pairs in the popular “4 Gates” combination. Most people feel a moderate to strong sensation on needling, which quickly calms down. Can sometimes see the point twitching as it translates the motion of the nearby dorsal metatarsal artery.
- English translations : Great Rushing, Supreme Surging, Great Thoroughfare. Name relates both to its location (pulsating artery) and its moving action.
- Point Properties :
- Shu-Stream (Earth) : Shu-stream points are especially good for treating the solid organs (zang), so generally more chronic but serious diseases. In this case, it is an earth point on a wood channel, so may be particularly good at protecting the earth organs (Spleen & Stomach) from the Liver, which is known to “attack” it when excessive.
- Yuan Source : Yuan source points provide deeply nourishing energy to the associated channel and organ.
- Official location (Deadman) : On the dorsum of the foot, in the hollow distal to the junction of the first and second metatarsal bones. See photo above!
- Chinese medicine functions : Moves Liver Qi, Nourishes Liver Blood, Regulates the Lower Jiao
- Common conditions treated:
- Headaches including migraines
- Dizziness, high blood pressure
- Blurry or cloudy vision, red and painful eyes, twitching in the eyes
- No menses, irregular menses, incessant menses
- Menstrual cramping and other symptoms of PMS
- Lower back pain especially radiating to thigh/groin
