ACUPUNCTURE
Zhong Shu: TCM Acupoint Guide
ZHONGSHU
Name
Zhong Shu (Zhongshu)
Location
On the midline of the back, in the depression below the spinous process of the tenth thoracic vertebra.
Needling
- Perpendicular-oblique superior insertion, 0.5 to 1 cun.
- Caution: the spinal column lies between 1.25 and 1.75 cun deep to the skin surface, varying according to body build.
- Slanted insertion, 0.5 to 1 cun.
- Puncture perpendicularly, 0.5 to 1 cun.
- Moxibustion is applicable.
Actions
- Benefits the spine
- Benefits the Middle Jiao
Indications
- Pain and stiffness of the lumbar region and back
- Abdominal fullness
- Anorexia
- Jaundice
- Amenorrhea
- Stomach ache
- Cholecystitis
- Diminishing vision
- Pain in the epigastric region
- Indigestion
Contraindications
According to one classical text, moxibustion is contraindicated.
Notes
This is considered a strength point.
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.
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