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Yu Yao: TCM Acupoint Guide

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

Yu Yao (Yuyao)

Location

At the midpoint of the eyebrow, in the depression directly above the pupil when the eyes are looking straight forwards. Note: this point is traditionally located lateral to the supraorbital notch from which the supraorbital nerve emerges.

Needling

  • Puncture subcutaneously, 0.3 to 0.5 cun.
  • Transverse insertion, medially or laterally, 0.5 to 1 cun. For supraorbital neuralgia, direct it toward either side. It may also be joined to UB-2 Zanzhu or SJ-23 Sizhukong. Sensation: local distention and soreness, sometimes extending to the eyeball.

Actions

  • Benefits the eyes
  • Relaxes the sinews
  • Alleviates pain
  • Clears heat
  • Removes obstruction from the channel

Indications

  • Pain in the supraorbital region
  • Twitching eyelids
  • Ptosis
  • Cloudiness of the cornea
  • Redness, swelling and pain of the eyes
  • Facial paralysis
  • Supraorbital neuralgia
  • Superficial visual obstruction
  • Drooping of the eyelid
  • Frontal headache
  • Myopia
  • Acute conjunctivitis
  • Ophthalmyoplegia
  • Floaters

Notes

This point may be stimulated by through-needling from GB-14 Yangbai or UB-2 Zanzhu.

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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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