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ACUPUNCTURE

Gan Re Xue: TCM Acupoint Guide

GANREXUE
By the TCMHH editorial team Not medically reviewed How we work Updated 6 Oct 2026
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Name

Gan Re Xue (Ganrexue)

Location

0.5 cun lateral to the fifth thoracic vertebra.

Needling

  • Slanted insertion toward the spine, 0.5 to 1 cun.
  • Puncture perpendicularly, 0.5 to 1 cun.
  • Moxibustion is applicable.

Actions

  • Benefits the back and joints
  • Restores qi and blood flow
  • Strengthens and relaxes the sinews

Indications

  • Bronchitis
  • Hepatitis
  • Backache
  • Cholecystitis
  • Intercostal neuralgia

Notes

This is one of the Huatuojiaji (M-BW-35) points, which are connected by way of the connecting channel from the DU channel to the urinary bladder channel. Their main function is to smooth qi circulation through these channels. Stimulating the points lets qi excess out through the urinary bladder channel. Their therapeutic functions are basically the same as those of the DU channel. This point is especially useful to correct deviations of the vertebrae.

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Sources and further reading

We cite classical materia medica and modern reference works. This article is health education, not medical advice.

  • Shennong Bencao Jing (The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica), Han dynasty.
  • Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica), Li Shizhen, 1578.
  • Chinese Pharmacopoeia, current edition — identity, quality and safety monographs.
  • NCCIH and WHO reference material on traditional medicine safety.

Spotted an error or a better source? Tell us — corrections are logged on our editorial policy page.

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