The functions of the Ancient Shu points
The functions of the five Ancient Shu points: a clinical guide
Each of the five Ancient Shu points has its own therapeutic qualities, based on its position in the water metaphor (from spring to sea) and on the element with which it is connected. Knowing these functions is essential for every acupuncturist: it enables him or her to choose the correct point for the specific nature of the complaint — whether it concerns an acute Heat disorder, a chronic organ problem or a joint disorder.
1. Jing/Well points: the spring at the nails
The Jing/Well points are located at the lower corners of the nails — the starting point of each meridian. They are the most peripheral and act most directly on consciousness and the outer layers. Their three classical functions are: calming the spirit in insomnia, irritation and restlessness; restoring consciousness in fainting or shock (they are the first choice for loss of consciousness in acupuncture); and treating complaints at the opposite end of the meridian (the first point of the Large Intestine meridian, on the index finger, treats sore throat and nasal problems because the meridian ends at the nose).
2. Ying/Spring points: clearing Heat
The Ying/Spring points — one step farther from the nails — are specialists in clearing Heat and sensations of warmth. They are the first choice for fever, inflammation, hot flushes and mania — all Yang manifestations that Ying/Spring points can cool and regulate. In particular, the Fire points at this position are especially effective for Heat patterns. They can also be used for disturbances in the Yang meridian pathways and likewise treat complaints at the opposite end of the meridian.
3. Shu/Stream points: the most powerful organ points
The Shu/Stream points are the most frequently used of the five types in classical acupuncture — especially those on the Yin meridians. The reason is distinctive: at the Shu/Stream point of the Yin meridians, Yuan Qi (the Pre-Heaven, original Qi) comes to the surface. This makes these points particularly suitable for tonifying and harmonising the corresponding Yin organ at a deep, constitutional level.
The Shu/Stream points on the Yang meridians work differently: they are most effective for treating the meridian itself — particularly joint complaints, because the Yang meridians run across the joints.
4. Jing/River points: voice and bones
The Jing/River points are located around the ankle and wrist joints. They are classically used for two types of complaints. First, voice-related disorders: hoarseness, loss of voice, abnormal laughter, a weak voice or stiffness of the tongue — all complaints for which the Jing/River points on the Yin meridians (the Metal points) are effective. Second, for diseases of the bones and nerves.
5. He/Sea points: the deepest organ treatment
The He/Sea points at the knee and elbow are the most distal Ancient Shu points — here Qi dives deeply into the body toward the internal organs. They are particularly suitable for chronic organ disorders, especially digestive problems. Stomach problems due to irregular eating, vomiting and diarrhoea respond well to the He/Sea points. Special are the "lower He/Sea points" on the lower leg: Stomach 37 for the Large Intestine, Bladder 39 for the Triple Burner and Stomach 39 for the Small Intestine. On the Yang meridians, He/Sea points also work effectively for skin problems.