Xi-Cleft Points Guide
Introduction
Xi-Cleft Points are special acupuncture points found on each of the 12 primary meridians and four extraordinary vessels. These points are where qi and blood accumulate deeply, making them useful for treating acute conditions, pain, and blood disorders.
Key Points
Xi-Cleft Points are used for acute pain and blood-related conditions.
On yin meridians, they are especially effective for blood disorders.
On yang meridians, they treat pain and channel obstructions.
Each meridian has one Xi-Cleft Point, while four extraordinary vessels also have them.
Overview of Xi-Cleft Points
| Meridian | Xi-Cleft Point | Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Lung (LU) | LU-6 (Kongzui) | Treats acute cough, asthma, and bleeding |
| Large Intestine (LI) | LI-7 (Wenliu) | Clears heat, alleviates pain |
| Stomach (ST) | ST-34 (Liangqiu) | Treats acute stomach pain and knee pain |
| Spleen (SP) | SP-8 (Diji) | Regulates menstruation and blood disorders |
| Heart (HT) | HT-6 (Yinxi) | Calms the spirit, stops night sweating |
| Small Intestine (SI) | SI-6 (Yanglao) | Benefits the elderly, treats shoulder pain |
| Bladder (BL) | BL-63 (Jinmen) | Clears heat, treats sudden pain |
| Kidney (KI) | KI-5 (Shuiquan) | Regulates menstruation, treats urination issues |
| Pericardium (PC) | PC-4 (Ximen) | Treats heart pain, regulates blood |
| Sanjiao (SJ) | SJ-7 (Huizong) | Treats acute ear infections and headaches |
| Gall Bladder (GB) | GB-36 (Waiqiu) | Clears heat, treats muscle pain |
| Liver (LV) | LV-6 (Zhongdu) | Moves stagnant liver blood, treats menstrual pain |
➡️ Explore Acupuncture Point Categories
Functions and Clinical Applications
1. Pain Management and Acute Conditions
Xi-Cleft Points are powerful in treating sudden onset pain along their respective meridians.
Example: ST-34 (Liangqiu) is used for acute stomach pain and knee disorders.
2. Blood Disorders and Menstrual Regulation
Yin meridian Xi-Cleft Points are key in treating blood stagnation and menstrual issues.
Example: SP-8 (Diji) is used for dysmenorrhea and menstrual cramps.
➡️ Learn More About Blood Stagnation in Acupuncture
3. Treating Emotional and Heart Conditions
Some Xi-Cleft Points have shen-calming properties and influence the Heart and Pericardium.
Example: HT-6 (Yinxi) is used for night sweating and emotional instability.
4. Regulating Internal Organ Dysfunction
Certain points regulate zang-fu organ function, particularly in digestive and urinary disorders.
Example: KI-5 (Shuiquan) is used to treat difficult urination and reproductive disorders.
➡️ Explore Kidney Meridian Points for Urinary Health
Xi-Cleft Points on the Extraordinary Vessels
In addition to the 12 primary meridians, four extraordinary vessels have Xi-Cleft Points:
| Extraordinary Vessel | Xi-Cleft Point | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Yin Qiao Mai | KI-8 (Jiaoxin) | Regulates menstruation, nourishes yin |
| Yang Qiao Mai | BL-59 (Fuyang) | Treats lower limb pain, balances movement |
| Yin Wei Mai | KI-9 (Zhubin) | Calms the mind, treats emotional disorders |
| Yang Wei Mai | GB-35 (Yangjiao) | Regulates yang, treats leg pain |
Treatment Strategies Using Xi-Cleft Points
For Acute Pain: Use direct needling or electroacupuncture.
For Blood Disorders: Apply tonification technique on yin meridian Xi-Cleft Points.
For Organ Dysfunction: Combine Xi-Cleft with Back-Shu or Front-Mu points.
Conclusion
Xi-Cleft Points are powerful tools in acupuncture, especially for acute conditions, pain relief, and blood stagnation issues. Understanding their roles enhances clinical outcomes and allows for precise, effective treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When should I use Xi-Cleft Points?
Xi-Cleft Points are best for acute pain, blood disorders, and sudden organ dysfunction.
Q: How do Xi-Cleft Points differ from other categories?
Unlike Yuan-Source Points, which strengthen organs, Xi-Cleft Points treat acute and excess conditions.
Q: Can Xi-Cleft Points be used in combination with other points?
Yes! They are commonly paired with Luo-Connecting Points for qi and blood regulation.
Sources:
Deadman, P. (2001). A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
Maciocia, G. (2015). The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text for Acupuncturists. Churchill Livingstone.
Kendall, D. E. (2002). The Dao of Chinese Medicine: Understanding an Ancient Healing Art. Oxford University Press.