Where to massage for upper heat, lower cold, and blocked middle jiao
Jun 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In general, for the pattern of "heat above and cold below" or blocked middle jiao, appropriate acupressure on specific points can be applied after TCM syndrome differentiation. For "heat above and cold below," points such as Guanyuan (CV4), Zhongwan (CV12), and Dazhui (GV14) may be massaged. For a blocked middle jiao, abdominal acupoints including Tianshu (ST25), Zhongwan (CV12), and Shuidao (ST28) can be stimulated after proper TCM diagnosis. Patients presenting with both "heat above and cold below" and a blocked middle jiao should avoid smoking and alcohol, refrain from staying up late, and engage in moderate physical exercise in daily life.
In general, for the condition of "upper heat and lower cold," after TCM syndrome differentiation, appropriate massage of acupoints such as Guanyuan (CV4), Zhongwan (CV12), and Dazhui (GV14) may be performed. For middle-jiao blockage, following TCM syndrome differentiation, abdominal acupoints including Tianshu (ST25), Zhongwan (CV12), and Shuidao (ST28) can be massaged. Specific details are as follows:
I. Upper Heat and Lower Cold
1. Guanyuan (CV4)
Located in the lower abdomen, 3 cun below the umbilicus on the anterior midline, the Guanyuan point has the effect of strengthening vital energy (qi). It may provide supportive treatment for some patients presenting with heat in the upper body and cold in the lower body.
2. Zhongwan (CV12)
Located in the upper abdomen, 4 cun above the umbilicus on the anterior midline, the Zhongwan point helps harmonize the stomach, strengthen the spleen, and promote downward movement of腑 qi. It can also offer supportive benefits for certain patients with upper heat and lower cold.
3. Dazhui (GV14)
Located in the spinal region, in the depression below the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra, on the posterior midline, the Dazhui point functions to clear heat, resolve exterior patterns, relieve malaria, and alleviate pain. It is suitable for some patients with upper heat and lower cold.
II. Middle-Jiao Blockage
1. Tianshu (ST25)
Located on the stomach meridian, 2 cun lateral to the umbilicus, the Tianshu point regulates the spleen and stomach, promotes downward flow of stomach qi, and facilitates bowel movement. It is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from constipation.
2. Zhongwan (CV12)
Located on the Conception Vessel (Ren Meridian), 2 cun above the umbilicus on the anterior midline, Zhongwan is the front mu-point of the stomach and effectively regulates spleen and stomach function.
3. Shuidao (ST28)
Located in the lower abdomen, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 3 cun below the umbilicus, Shuidao is an acupoint on the Foot-Yangming Stomach Meridian. It promotes water metabolism and supports bladder function.
Patients with conditions of "upper heat and lower cold" or middle-jiao blockage should avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, refrain from staying up late, engage in moderate exercise, develop healthy eating habits, and avoid overeating in one sitting. Acupoint massage should be performed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation at a hospital is recommended.
