What are the benefits of bloodletting at the Three Shang points?

In general, the "three shang" (san shang) in Traditional Chinese Medicine refers to the three acupoints: Shao Shang, Zhong Shang, and Lao Shang. Bloodletting at these acupoints may offer various benefits, including promoting blood and qi circulation, relieving pain, facilitating detoxification and removal of dampness, regulating yang energy and enhancing immunity, as well as improving skin conditions. The specific benefits are analyzed as follows:

1. Promoting Blood and Qi Circulation

Bloodletting at these acupoints can enhance local blood and qi flow by releasing a small amount of blood. Since the Shao Shang, Zhong Shang, and Lao Shang points are located at the extremities of the hands and feet, bloodletting can increase blood flow and improve local circulation, helping to alleviate blood stagnation and stasis.

2. Relieving Pain

Bloodletting at these points stimulates nerve endings and helps unblock meridians while promoting blood circulation, thereby reducing pain. This may provide relief for patients suffering from chronic pain, muscle aches, or joint pain.

3. Promoting Detoxification and Removing Dampness

Bloodletting at the Shao Shang, Zhong Shang, and Lao Shang points helps eliminate metabolic waste and excess dampness from the blood, supporting the body's detoxification processes. Accumulated dampness can lead to health issues such as edema, fatigue, and a feeling of heaviness in the body; bloodletting may help alleviate these symptoms.

4. Regulating Yang Energy and Enhancing Immunity

Bloodletting at these acupoints promotes the movement of yang energy in the body and helps regulate the balance between yin and yang, thereby strengthening the immune system. The activation and circulation of yang energy are vital for maintaining overall health and resistance to disease.

5. Improving Skin Conditions

The Shao Shang, Zhong Shang, and Lao Shang points are connected to the meridian system. Bloodletting can help unblock meridians and improve blood circulation, nourishing the skin, enhancing its metabolism and repair functions, thus improving skin problems such as acne and boils.

It should be noted that bloodletting therapy is an acute treatment method with relatively high risks and should not be performed without professional supervision. Patients should seek timely medical care and undergo this procedure only under the guidance of a qualified physician.