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Lou Gu (SP7): TCM Acupoint Guide — Location and Uses

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

Lou Gu (Lougu)

Location

On the medial side of the lower leg, 3 cun superior to SP-6 Sanyinjiao, in a depression just posterior to the medial crest of the tibia. Note: this point is most readily located one hand breadth superior to SP-6 Sanyinjiao.

Needling

  • Straight insertion, 1 to 1.5 cun.
  • Note: according to several classic texts, this point is contraindicated to moxibustion.
  • Perpendicular insertion, 1 to 1.5 cun.
  • Puncture perpendicularly, 0.5 to 1 cun.
  • Moxibustion is applicable.

Actions

  • Fortifies the spleen
  • Resolves dampness
  • Promotes urination
  • Disperses swelling

Indications

  • Abdominal distention
  • Borborygmus
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Micturia
  • Swollen abdomen
  • Numbness in the hands and feet
  • Painful belching
  • Wasting of the muscles and flesh despite normal eating and drinking
  • Seminal emission
  • Inversion counterflow of the legs and knees
  • Coldness, numbness and paralysis of the knee and leg
  • Swollen feet
  • Swollen ankles
  • Generalized edema
  • Diarrhea
  • Edema
  • Difficult urination
  • Sadness with counterflow qi
  • Leg qi
  • Painful obstruction of the knees

Contraindications

According to several classic texts, this point is contraindicated to moxibustion.

Notes

This point is good for people who eat without gaining weight, it all leaks out.

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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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