名解：地，地部也。五，五脏六腑也。会，交会也。地五会名意指天、地二部的寒湿水气在此交会。本穴所处为足背外侧陷者中，胆经上部经脉足临泣穴传来的气血又为天部的寒湿风气及地部的寒冷水湿，穴外天部的飘散阳气至此后因本穴气血的寒冷收引而化雨冷降穴内，穴外地部的溢流水液也汇入本穴，本穴如同五脏六腑的气血汇合而成，且气血为地部经水，故名地五会。五会名意与地五会同。
功能作用：收降水液。
注：经言本穴"不可灸，灸之令人瘦，不出三年死"者，乃本穴功用即是沉降各经脉气血中的阴浊，今若灸之则阴浊不降，穴内物质灸则热胀，胀而生风，阴浊之物随风气乱行于人体各部，为气乱，故不可灸。
名解：1）侠溪。侠，通夹，被夹于中间之意。溪，地部流行的经水。侠溪名意指胆经经水在此循地部渠道回流井穴。本穴物质为地五会穴传来的地部经水，本穴只是对其起了一个循经传输的作用，地部的经水没有流失，如被夹于渠道之中下传足窍阴穴，故名侠溪。
2)胆经荥穴。荥，极小的水流也。本穴物质为地五会穴传来的地部经水，水量极小，故为胆经荥穴。
3)本穴属水。属水，指本穴气血运行变化表现出的五行属性。本穴物质为地五会传来的地部经水，在本穴的变化吸热蒸发，蒸发天部的水气表现出肾气的寒冷收引特征，故其属水。
运行规律：大部分经水回流足窍阴穴，极少部分经水气化为天部之气。
功能作用：传导水液。
名解：1)足窍阴。足，指穴在足部。窍，空窍之意。阴，指穴内物质为阴性水液。足窍阴名意指胆经经水由此回流体内的空窍之处。本穴为胆经体内与体表经脉的交会点，由于胆经体表经脉的气血物质为地部经水，所处为高位，因而循本穴的地部孔隙回流体内，故名足窍阴。
2)胆经井穴。井，部孔隙也。本穴有地部孔隙连通体内，故为胆经井穴。
3)本穴属金。属金，指本穴气血运行变化表现出的五行属性。本穴物质为地部经水，其运行为从地之表部流入地之地部，而因本穴流入地之地部的经水量少，流入体内后则大量气化又外出体表，气化之气表现出肺金之气的凉湿特征，故其属金。
运行规律：经水由地之表部流入地之地部，经气由地之地部外出地之表部。
功能作用：沟通内外经脉气血。
足厥阴肝经多气少血，气血物质的运行变化是不断地吸热蒸升的变化。
别名：水泉，大训，大顺。
穴义：体内肝经的温热水液由本穴外输体表。
名解：1）大敦。大敦，即大树敦也，在此意指穴内气血的生发特性。本穴物质为体内肝经外输的温热水液，而本穴又为肝经之穴，时值为春，水液由本穴的地部孔隙外出体表后蒸升扩散，表现出春天气息的生发特性，如大树敦在春天生发新枝一般，故名大敦。
2)水泉。水，水液也。泉，源源不断之意。水泉名意指体内的肝经水液源源不断地由此外输体表。本穴物质来自肝经体内经脉的外输水液，肝经与胆经相似，其运行的气血物质为天之中部的水湿风气，由体内外输体表的气血物质亦为风气冷缩后的地部水液，此冷降之液量不大，但却源源不断地由体内外输体表，如细小的水泉外涌一般，故名水泉。
3)大训。大，多也，大也。顺，趋向同一方向也。大顺名意指体内肝经外出体表的水液全部气化后向天部而行。理同大敦名解。大训名意与大顺同。
4)肝经井穴。井，地陪孔隙也。本穴有地部孔隙与体内肝经相连通，为体内肝经气血的外出之处，故为肝经井穴。
5)本穴属木。属木，指本穴气血运行变化表现出的五行属性。本穴物质为体内肝经的外出水液，水液外出体表后气化为天部之气，此气水湿滞重所升天部层次也不高，只表现出木的生发特性，故其属木。
功能作用：生发风气。
名解：1）行间。行，行走、流动、离开也。间，二者当中也。行间名意指肝经的水湿风气由此顺传而上。本穴物质为大敦穴传来的湿重水气，至本穴后吸热并循肝经向上传输，气血物质遵循其应有的道路而行，故名行间。
2)肝经荥穴。荥，极小的水流也。本穴物质为大敦穴传来的滞重水气，至本穴后，水湿冷降而成为地部经水，水量极小，故为肝经荥穴。
3)本穴属火。属火，指本穴气血运行变化表现出的五行属性。本穴物质为大敦穴传来的滞重水气，至本穴后，大部分滞重水湿冷降归地而不能成为肝经的上行气血，只有小部分水湿吸热胀散而上行，此部分气血表现出火的炎上特征，故其属火。
功能作用：生风化火。
别名：大冲。
名解：1）太冲。太，大也。冲，冲射之状也。太冲名意指肝经的水湿风气在此向上冲行。本穴物质为行间穴传来的水湿风气，至本穴后因受热而胀散化为急风冲散穴外，故名太冲。大冲名意与太冲同。
2)肝经俞穴。俞，输也。本穴物质为热胀的风气，在本穴为输出之状，故为肝经俞穴。
3)本穴属土。属土，指本穴气血运行变化表现出的五行属性。本穴物质为行间穴传来的水湿之气，至本穴后因吸热而胀散，胀散之气性热燥，表现出脾气的燥热特性，故其属土。
功能作用：燥湿生风。
别名：悬泉。
名解：1）中封。中，正中也。封，封堵也。中封名意指肝经风气在此势弱缓行并化为凉性水气。本穴物质为太冲穴传来的急劲风气，由于本穴位处足背之转折处，急劲风气行至本穴后因经脉通道的弯曲而受挫，急行的风气变得缓行势弱，如被封堵一般，故名中封。
2)悬泉。悬，吊挂之意。泉，指穴内气血如泉水流淌般源源不断。悬泉名意指肝经水湿之气在此源源不断地流行而过。理同中封名解。
3)肝经经穴。经，经过也，动而不居也。本穴为肝经风气经过之处，气血的运行为动而不居，故为肝经经穴。
4)本穴属金。属金，指本穴气血运行变化表现出的五行属性。本穴物质为太冲穴传来的强劲者风气，至本穴后风和势缓并化为凉性水湿之气，气血特征与肺金之气同，故其属金。
功能作用：息风化气。
别名：交仪。
名解：1）蠡沟。蠡，瓠瓢也，此指穴内物质如瓠瓢浮于水中飘浮不定之状。沟，沟渠也，此指穴内物质运行循一定的道路。蠡沟名意指三阴交穴传来的温湿水气由本穴别走足少阳胆经。本穴物质为三阴交穴分配而来的温湿水气，因其性温，既无上升之力又无沉降之能，温湿水气在天部层次如漂浮不定之状，但由于其温度及所处的天部层次与胆经相近，因此此温湿水气分别飘行于肝胆二经，故名蠡沟。
2)交仪。交，给也。仪，礼仪也。交仪名意指肝经由本穴传于胆经的气血物质如仪礼一般，并无太多的具体实物。本穴物质为三阴交穴传来的温湿水气，因其无肾经气血的寒湿之性，所以气血物质无肾经气血的实（水湿浓度大），因其无脾经气血的热燥，所以气血物质无脾经气血的能量，气血物质如有名无实一般，因此由本穴交于胆经的气血就如同一种礼仪，故名交仪。
3)肝经络穴。本穴因有固有渠道与胆经相通，有联络肝胆二经气血的作用，故为肝经络穴。
别名：中郄，太阴，大阴。
名解：1）中都。中，与外相对，指穴之内部。都，都市之意。中都名意指肝经的水气在此云集天之下部。本穴物质为蠡沟穴传来的水湿之气，至本穴后水湿之气聚集而成一个水湿气场，所处为天之下部，本穴如同肝经气血的集散之地，故名中都。
2)中郄。中，与外相对，指穴之内部。郄，孔隙也。名郄名意指肝经的水湿云气只有极少部分吸热上行。本穴物质为天之下部的水湿云气，性寒湿，只有极少部分的水气吸热后循肝经上行，气血的外传如从孔隙中传出一般，故名中郄。
3)太阴。太，极也。阴，寒也。太阴名意指本穴气血为寒冷水气。理同中郄名解。大阴名意与太阴同。
功能作用：降浊升清。
7膝关
别名：阴关。
穴义：肝经的上行之气中滞重水湿在此沉降。
名解：膝关。膝，指穴在膝部也。关，关卡也。膝关名意指肝经的上行之气中滞重水湿在此沉降。本穴物质为中都穴传来的阴湿水气，至本穴后，滞重的水湿无力上行而沉降于下，只有少部分水气吸热后继续上行，本穴如同关卡一般阻挡滞重水湿的上行，故名膝关。阴关名意与膝关同。
运行规律：大部分滞重水湿冷降归地，小部分水气吸热后横向飘行于曲泉穴。
功能作用：降浊升清。
穴义：肝经的水湿云气在此聚集。
名解：1)曲泉。曲，隐秘也。泉，泉水也。曲泉名意指肝经的水湿云气在此聚集。本穴物质为膝关穴传来的水湿之气，至本穴后为聚集之状，大量的水湿如隐藏于天部之中，故名曲泉。
2)肝经合穴。合，会合也。本穴为肝经气血的会合之处，故为肝经合穴。
3)本穴属水。属水，指本穴气血运行变化表现出的五行属性。本穴物质为肝经的水湿之气会合而成，性寒湿润下，表现出肾经气血的润下特征，故其属水。
功能作用：除湿降浊。
9阴包
别名：阴胞。
穴义：肝经的水湿之气在此为云集之状。
名解：阴包。阴，水也。包，收也。阴包名意指肝经的水湿之气在此为云集之状。本穴物质为曲泉穴传来的弱小阴湿水气及足五里穴外渗下行的地部经水，至本穴后天地二部水湿皆聚集本穴，本穴如肝经水湿的包收之地，故名阴包。阴胞名意与阴包同。
功能作用：收引水湿。
10足五里
别名：五里。
名解：足，指穴在足部。五里，指本穴气血的作用范围如五里之广。本穴物质为阴廉穴传来的冷降水湿及水湿风气中的脾土尘埃，至本穴后由天部归降地部，覆盖的范围如五里之广，故名足五里。五里名意与足五里同。
气血特征：气血物质为天之下部的水湿风气及随风气中吹带的脾土尘埃。
运行规律：由天冷降归于地部。
功能作用：固化脾土，除湿降浊。
11阴廉
[Name Explanation] Di (Earth), refers to the Earth level. Wu (Five), refers to the five Zang organs and six Fu organs. Hui (Meeting), refers to intersection or convergence. The name of the Dìwǔhuì (BL-41) acupoint implies that the cold-damp water qi from the Heaven level and the Earth level converge here. This acupoint is located in the depression on the lateral aspect of the dorsum of the foot. The Qi and Blood transmitted from the upper part of the Gallbladder Meridian, specifically from the Línqì (GB-41) acupoint, consists of both the cold-damp wind qi of the Heaven level and the cold water dampness of the Earth level. When the dissipating Yang Qi from the Heaven level outside the acupoint reaches this point, it condenses into cold rain due to the cold nature of the acupoint's Qi and Blood, descending into the acupoint. Simultaneously, the overflowing liquid water from the Earth level outside the acupoint also converges into this acupoint. This acupoint resembles a gathering place for the Qi and Blood of the five Zang and six Fu organs, and since the Qi and Blood manifest as meridian water at the Earth level, it is named Dìwǔhuì (Convergence of Earth and Five). The meaning of "Wuhui" (Five Convergences) is identical to "Dìwǔhui".
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is the meridian water at the Earth level.
Movement Pattern: It transmits downward along the Gallbladder Meridian to the Xiáxī (GB-43) acupoint.
Functions and Actions: Collects and descends body fluids.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, use the Tonification method or pricking to bleed; for Heat patterns, use water needle therapy or reduce by venting Qi.
Note: Ancient texts state that this acupoint "should not be moxaed; if moxaed, it causes emaciation, and death may occur within three years." This is because the function of this acupoint is to sink and descend the Yin turbid substances in the Qi and Blood of various meridians. If moxibustion is applied, the Yin turbid substances fail to descend. The substances within the acupoint expand due to heat, generating wind. The Yin turbid substances then move chaotically throughout the body following the wind, causing Qi disorder. Therefore, moxibustion is contraindicated.
43 Xiáxī (GB-43), Ying-Spring Acupoint, belongs to Water.
Acupoint Meaning: The meridian water of the Gallbladder Meridian returns to the Jing-River Well acupoint via channels at the Earth level here.
Name Explanation: 1) Xiáxī. Xiá is a variant character for Jiā (夹), meaning "sandwiched" or "clamped." Xī refers to the meridian water flowing at the Earth level. The name Xiáxī implies that the meridian water of the Gallbladder Meridian returns to the Well acupoint via channels at the Earth level here. The substance of this acupoint is the meridian water at the Earth level transmitted from the Dìwǔhuì (GB-41) acupoint. This acupoint merely serves a transportive function along the meridian; the meridian water at the Earth level does not dissipate but is transmitted downward to the Zúqiàoyīn (GB-44) acupoint as if clamped within a channel. Hence, it is named Xiáxī.
2) Ying-Spring Acupoint of the Gallbladder Meridian. Yíng (荥) refers to a very small stream. The substance of this acupoint is the meridian water at the Earth level transmitted from the Dìwǔhuì (GB-41) acupoint, with a very small volume, thus making it the Ying-Spring acupoint of the Gallbladder Meridian.
3) This acupoint belongs to Water. Belonging to Water refers to the Five Element attribute manifested by the changes in the movement of Qi and Blood in this acupoint. The substance is the meridian water at the Earth level transmitted from Dìwǔhuì. Within this acupoint, it undergoes endothermic evaporation. The resulting Heaven-level water vapor exhibits the cold and contracting characteristics of Kidney Qi, thus its attribute is Water.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is the meridian water at the Earth level.
Movement Pattern: Most of the meridian water returns to the Zúqiàoyīn (GB-44) acupoint; a very small portion vaporizes into Heaven-level Qi.
Functions and Actions: Conducts body fluids.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, use the Tonification method or pricking to bleed; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi or use water needle therapy.
44 Zúqiàoyīn (GB-44), Jing-Well Acupoint, belongs to Metal.
Acupoint Meaning: The meridian water of the Gallbladder Meridian returns to the interior of the body here.
Name Explanation: 1) Zúqiàoyīn. Zú (Foot) indicates the location of the acupoint on the foot. Qiào (Orifice) means an empty cavity. Yīn (Yin) indicates that the substance within the acupoint is Yin-type fluid. The name Zúqiàoyīn implies that the meridian water of the Gallbladder Meridian returns to the empty cavities within the body here. This acupoint is the intersection between the intra-corporeal and extra-corporeal parts of the Gallbladder Meridian. Since the Qi and Blood substance of the extra-corporeal part of the Gallbladder Meridian is meridian water at the Earth level and is located at a higher position, it flows back into the interior through the Earth-level pores of this acupoint. Hence, it is named Zúqiàoyīn.
2) Jing-Well Acupoint of the Gallbladder Meridian. Jǐng (Well) refers to the pores at the Earth level. Since this acupoint has Earth-level pores connecting to the interior, it is the Jing-Well acupoint of the Gallbladder Meridian.
3) This acupoint belongs to Metal. Belonging to Metal refers to the Five Element attribute manifested by the changes in the movement of Qi and Blood in this acupoint. The substance is meridian water at the Earth level. Its movement is from the superficial Earth level into the deep Earth level. Because the amount of meridian water entering the deep Earth level is small, it largely vaporizes upon entering the interior and re-emerges to the exterior. The vaporized Qi exhibits the cool and moist characteristics of Lung Metal Qi, thus its attribute is Metal.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is the meridian water at the Earth level and the Qi at the Heaven level.
Movement Pattern: Meridian water flows from the superficial Earth level into the deep Earth level; Meridian Qi moves from the deep Earth level out to the superficial Earth level.
Functions and Actions: Connects the Qi and Blood of the internal and external meridians.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, use the Tonification method or pricking to bleed; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi.
Twelve Acupoints of the Foot-Jueyin Liver Meridian: Abundant in Qi, Scarce in Blood.
The Twelve Acupoints of the Foot-Jueyin Liver Meridian: Abundant in Qi, Scarce in Blood.
The Foot-Jueyin Liver Meridian is abundant in Qi and scarce in Blood. The movement and transformation of its Qi and Blood substances involve continuous endothermic steaming and ascending.
1 Dàtūn (LR-1), Jing-Well Acupoint, belongs to Wood.
Aliases: Shuǐquán, Dàxùn, Dàshùn.
Acupoint Meaning: Warm water-fluid from the intra-corporeal Liver Meridian is transported externally to the body surface from this acupoint.
Name Explanation: 1) Dàtūn. Dàtūn refers to the stump of a large tree, implying the sprouting characteristic of the Qi and Blood within this acupoint here. The substance of this acupoint is the warm water-fluid transported externally from the intra-corporeal Liver Meridian. As an acupoint of the Liver Meridian, corresponding to the season of Spring, the water-fluid exits the Earth-level pores to the body surface, where it steams, ascends, and diffuses, exhibiting the sprouting characteristic of Spring Qi, much like a tree stump sprouting new branches in spring. Hence, it is named Dàtūn.
2) Shuǐquán. Shuǐ (Water) refers to fluid. Quán (Spring) means continuous and unending. The name Shuǐquán implies that the water-fluid of the intra-corporeal Liver Meridian continuously transports externally to the body surface from here. The substance originates from the water-fluid transported externally from the intra-corporeal Liver Meridian. Similar to the Gallbladder Meridian, the Qi and Blood substance moving in the Liver Meridian is the damp-wind Qi of the middle Heaven level. The Qi and Blood substance transported externally to the body surface is therefore the Earth-level water resulting from the cooling and contraction of wind Qi. Although this cold-descending fluid is not voluminous, it continuously transports externally to the body surface, resembling a small spring gushing forth. Hence, it is named Shuǐquán.
3) Dàxùn. Dà means many or great. Shùn means tending in the same direction. The name Dàshùn implies that all the water-fluid transported externally from the intra-corporeal Liver Meridian vaporizes and moves toward the Heaven level. The principle is the same as the explanation for Dàtūn. The meaning of Dàxùn is identical to Dàshùn.
4) Jing-Well Acupoint of the Liver Meridian. Jǐng (Well) refers to the pores at the Earth level. This acupoint has Earth-level pores connected to the intra-corporeal Liver Meridian, serving as the exit for the Qi and Blood of the intra-corporeal Liver Meridian. Hence, it is the Jing-Well acupoint of the Liver Meridian.
5) This acupoint belongs to Wood. Belonging to Wood refers to the Five Element attribute manifested by the changes in the movement of Qi and Blood in this acupoint. The substance is the water-fluid transported externally from the intra-corporeal Liver Meridian. After exiting to the body surface, it vaporizes into Heaven-level Qi. Due to the heaviness of the water-dampness, this Qi does not rise high into the Heaven level, exhibiting only the sprouting characteristic of Wood. Hence, its attribute is Wood.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is warm, damp Qi.
Movement Pattern: It absorbs heat, steams, and ascends, transmitting along the Liver Meridian to the Xínghjiān (LR-2) acupoint.
Functions and Actions: Generates wind Qi.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, prick to bleed or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi.
2 Xínghjiān (LR-2), Ying-Spring Acupoint, belongs to Fire.
Acupoint Meaning: The damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian transmits upward smoothly from here.
Name Explanation: 1) Xínghjiān. Xíng (Walk/Flow) refers to walking, flowing, or departing. Jiān (Between) refers to the space between two things. The name Xínghjiān implies that the damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian transmits upward smoothly from here. The substance of this acupoint is the heavy, damp Qi transmitted from the Dàtūn (LR-1) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, it absorbs heat and transmits upward along the Liver Meridian. The Qi and Blood substance follows its proper path. Hence, it is named Xínghjiān.
2) Ying-Spring Acupoint of the Liver Meridian. Yíng (荥) refers to a very small stream. The substance of this acupoint is the heavy, damp Qi transmitted from the Dàtūn (LR-1) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, the dampness cools and descends to become meridian water at the Earth level. The volume is very small, thus making it the Ying-Spring acupoint of the Liver Meridian.
3) This acupoint belongs to Fire. Belonging to Fire refers to the Five Element attribute manifested by the changes in the movement of Qi and Blood in this acupoint. The substance is the heavy, damp Qi transmitted from the Dàtūn (LR-1) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, most of the heavy dampness cools and descends to the Earth level and cannot become the ascending Qi and Blood of the Liver Meridian. Only a small portion of the dampness absorbs heat, expands, and ascends. This portion of Qi and Blood exhibits the flaming-upward characteristic of Fire. Hence, its attribute is Fire.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is warm, damp Qi in the lower Heaven level.
Movement Pattern: First, it absorbs heat and flames upward to the Heaven level; second, it transmits along the Liver Meridian to the Tàichōng (LR-3) acupoint.
Functions and Actions: Generates wind and fire.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, prick to bleed, tonify, or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi.
3 Tàichōng (LR-3), Shu-Stream Acupoint, belongs to Earth.
Alias: Dàchōng.
Acupoint Meaning: The damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian rushes upward from here.
Name Explanation: 1) Tàichōng. Tài (Great) means large. Chōng (Rush) refers to the state of rushing or shooting. The name Tàichōng implies that the damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian rushes upward here. The substance of this acupoint is the damp-wind Qi transmitted from the Xínghjiān (LR-2) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, it heats up, expands, and transforms into urgent wind that scatters outward from the acupoint. Hence, it is named Tàichōng. The meaning of Dàchōng is identical to Tàichōng.
2) Shu-Stream Acupoint of the Liver Meridian. Shù (俞) is a variant for Shū (输), meaning transport or output. The substance of this acupoint is the heat-expanded wind Qi, which is in a state of output at this acupoint. Hence, it is the Shu-Stream acupoint of the Liver Meridian.
3) This acupoint belongs to Earth. Belonging to Earth refers to the Five Element attribute manifested by the changes in the movement of Qi and Blood in this acupoint. The substance is the damp-wind Qi transmitted from the Xínghjiān (LR-2) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, it absorbs heat and expands. The expanded Qi is hot and dry, exhibiting the hot and dry characteristic of Spleen Qi. Hence, its attribute is Earth.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is the rapidly moving wind Qi at the Heaven level, which is hot and dry.
Movement Pattern: It transmits upward along the Liver Meridian to the Zhōngfēng (LR-4) acupoint.
Functions and Actions: Dries dampness and generates wind.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, tonify or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi.
4 Zhōngfēng (LR-4), Jing-River Acupoint, belongs to Metal.
Alias: Xuánquán.
Acupoint Meaning: The wind Qi of the Liver Meridian weakens, slows down, and transforms into cool water Qi here.
Name Explanation: 1) Zhōngfēng. Zhōng (Middle/Center) means straight or central. Fēng (Seal/Block) means to block or seal. The name Zhōngfēng implies that the wind Qi of the Liver Meridian weakens, slows down, and transforms into cool water Qi here. The substance of this acupoint is the urgent and forceful wind Qi transmitted from the Tàichōng (LR-3) acupoint. Since this acupoint is located at the turning point of the dorsum of the foot, the urgent wind Qi encounters obstruction due to the curvature of the meridian channel. The rapid wind becomes slow and weak, as if blocked. Hence, it is named Zhōngfēng.
2) Xuánquán. Xuán (Hang/Suspend) means hanging. Quán (Spring) refers to the continuous flow of Qi and Blood in the acupoint like a spring. The name Xuánquán implies that the damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian flows continuously through here. The principle is the same as the explanation for Zhōngfēng.
3) Jing-River Acupoint of the Liver Meridian. Jīng (Channel/Passage) means passing through, moving without staying. This acupoint is a passage for the wind Qi of the Liver Meridian, and the movement of Qi and Blood is dynamic and non-stagnant. Hence, it is the Jing-River acupoint of the Liver Meridian.
4) This acupoint belongs to Metal. Belonging to Metal refers to the Five Element attribute manifested by the changes in the movement of Qi and Blood in this acupoint. The substance is the strong wind Qi transmitted from the Tàichōng (LR-3) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, the wind weakens and transforms into cool, damp water Qi. The characteristics of the Qi and Blood are identical to those of Lung Metal Qi. Hence, its attribute is Metal.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is the slow-moving wind Qi, which is cool.
Movement Pattern: First, it diffuses outside the Liver Meridian; second, it transmits upward along the Liver Meridian to the Sānyīnjiāo (SP-6) acupoint.
Functions and Actions: Extinguishes wind and generates Qi.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, tonify or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi.
5 Lígōu (LR-5), Luo-Connecting Acupoint.
Alias: Jiāoyí.
Acupoint Meaning: The warm, damp water Qi transmitted from the Sānyīnjiāo (SP-6) acupoint diverges to the Foot-Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian from this acupoint.
Name Explanation: 1) Lígōu. Lí (Gourd Ladle) refers to the state of the substance within the acupoint floating uncertainly in water like a gourd ladle. Gōu (Trench/Channel) refers to the substance moving along a specific path. The name Lígōu implies that the warm, damp water Qi transmitted from the Sānyīnjiāo (SP-6) acupoint diverges to the Foot-Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian from this acupoint. The substance of this acupoint is the warm, damp water Qi distributed from the Sānyīnjiāo (SP-6) acupoint. Due to its warm nature, it lacks the power to ascend and the ability to descend. At the Heaven level, the warm, damp water Qi floats uncertainly. However, because its temperature and Heaven level correspond closely to those of the Gallbladder Meridian, this warm, damp water Qi drifts separately along both the Liver and Gallbladder meridians. Hence, it is named Lígōu.
2) Jiāoyí. Jiāo (Give/Exchange) means to give. Yí (Ceremony/Ritual) means ritual. The name Jiāoyí implies that the Qi and Blood substance transmitted from the Liver Meridian to the Gallbladder Meridian via this acupoint is like a ritual, lacking substantial physical matter. The substance is the warm, damp water Qi transmitted from the Sānyīnjiāo (SP-6) acupoint. It lacks the cold-damp nature of Kidney Meridian Qi, so it lacks the "substance" (high concentration of water-dampness) of Kidney Meridian Qi. It lacks the hot-dry nature of Spleen Meridian Qi, so it lacks the "energy" of Spleen Meridian Qi. The Qi and Blood substance is like having a name without reality. Therefore, the Qi and Blood exchanged from this acupoint to the Gallbladder Meridian is akin to a ritual. Hence, it is named Jiāoyí.
3) Luo-Connecting Acupoint of the Liver Meridian. This acupoint has an inherent channel connecting to the Gallbladder Meridian and serves to connect the Qi and Blood of the Liver and Gallbladder meridians. Hence, it is the Luo-Connecting acupoint of the Liver Meridian.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is relatively sparse water-damp gas, which is warm and hot.
Movement Pattern: It ascends along the Liver Meridian to the Zhōngdū (LR-6) acupoint and diverges to the Gallbladder Meridian.
Functions and Actions: Connects the Liver and Gallbladder.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, tonify or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi.
6 Zhōngdū (LR-6), Xi-Cleft Acupoint.
Aliases: Zhōngxì, Tàiyīn, Dàyīn.
Acupoint Meaning: The water Qi of the Liver Meridian gathers at the lower Heaven level here.
Name Explanation: 1) Zhōngdū. Zhōng (Middle/Internal) is relative to Wài (External), referring to the interior of the acupoint. Dū (Metropolis/Capital) means a capital city. The name Zhōngdū implies that the water Qi of the Liver Meridian gathers at the lower Heaven level here. The substance of this acupoint is the damp-wind Qi transmitted from the Lígōu (LR-5) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, the damp-wind Qi aggregates into a damp-wind field, located at the lower Heaven level. This acupoint serves as a distribution center for the Qi and Blood of the Liver Meridian. Hence, it is named Zhōngdū.
2) Zhōngxì. Zhōng (Middle/Internal) is relative to Wài (External), referring to the interior of the acupoint. Xì (Cleft/Pore) means pore. The name Zhōngxì implies that only a very small portion of the damp-wind cloud Qi of the Liver Meridian absorbs heat and ascends. The substance is the damp-wind cloud Qi at the lower Heaven level, which is cold and damp. Only a tiny fraction of the water Qi absorbs heat and ascends along the Liver Meridian. The transmission of Qi and Blood outwards is like passing through a pore. Hence, it is named Zhōngxì.
3) Tàiyīn. Tài (Extreme) means extreme. Yīn (Yin/Cold) means cold. The name Tàiyīn implies that the Qi and Blood of this acupoint is cold water Qi. The principle is the same as the explanation for Zhōngxì. The meaning of Dàyīn is identical to Tàiyīn.
4) Xi-Cleft Acupoint of the Liver Meridian. The principle is the same as the explanation for Zhōngxì.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is Yin-damp water Qi at the lower Heaven level.
Movement Pattern: Most of it cools and descends to the Earth level; a small portion absorbs heat and ascends along the Liver Meridian to the Xīgguān (LR-7) acupoint.
Functions and Actions: Descends turbidity and raises clarity.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, reduce first then tonify, or prick to bleed, or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi.
7 Xīgguān (LR-7)
Alias: Yīnguān.
Acupoint Meaning: The heavy, damp water in the ascending Qi of the Liver Meridian sinks and descends here.
Name Explanation: Xīgguān. Xī (Knee) indicates the location of the acupoint in the knee region. Guān (Pass/Gate) means checkpoint. The name Xīgguān implies that the heavy, damp water in the ascending Qi of the Liver Meridian sinks and descends here. The substance of this acupoint is the Yin-damp water Qi transmitted from the Zhōngdū (LR-6) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, the heavy dampness lacks the strength to ascend and sinks downward. Only a small portion of water Qi absorbs heat and continues to ascend. This acupoint acts like a gate blocking the ascent of heavy dampness. Hence, it is named Xīgguān. The meaning of Yīnguān is identical to Xīgguān.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is Yin-damp water Qi at the Heaven level.
Movement Pattern: Most of the heavy dampness cools and descends to the Earth level; a small portion of water Qi absorbs heat and drifts horizontally to the Qūquán (LR-8) acupoint.
Functions and Actions: Descends turbidity and raises clarity.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, reduce first then tonify, or prick to bleed, or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi.
8 Qūquán (LR-8), He-Sea Acupoint, belongs to Water.
Acupoint Meaning: The damp-wind cloud Qi of the Liver Meridian gathers here.
Name Explanation: 1) Qūquán. Qū (Curved/Hidden) means hidden. Quán (Spring) means spring water. The name Qūquán implies that the damp-wind cloud Qi of the Liver Meridian gathers here. The substance of this acupoint is the damp-wind Qi transmitted from the Xīgguān (LR-7) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, it assumes a gathered state. A large amount of dampness is hidden within the Heaven level. Hence, it is named Qūquán.
2) He-Sea Acupoint of the Liver Meridian. Hé (Confluence) means convergence. This acupoint is the confluence of the Qi and Blood of the Liver Meridian. Hence, it is the He-Sea acupoint of the Liver Meridian.
3) This acupoint belongs to Water. Belonging to Water refers to the Five Element attribute manifested by the changes in the movement of Qi and Blood in this acupoint. The substance is formed by the convergence of the damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian. It is cold, moist, and tends downward, exhibiting the downward-moistening characteristic of Kidney Meridian Qi. Hence, its attribute is Water.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is the damp-wind cloud Qi at the lower Heaven level.
Movement Pattern: Most of it cools and descends to the Earth level; a small portion absorbs heat and descends obliquely to the Yīnbāo (LR-9) acupoint.
Functions and Actions: Removes dampness and descends turbidity.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, reduce first then tonify, or prick to bleed, or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, reduce by venting Qi or tonify.
9 Yīnbāo (LR-9)
Alias: Yīnbāo (Uterus/Womb - note: character differs slightly in meaning context but phonetically similar alias often cited).
Acupoint Meaning: The damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian gathers in clouds here.
Name Explanation: Yīnbāo. Yīn (Yin/Water) refers to water. Bāo (Wrap/Collect) means to collect or gather. The name Yīnbāo implies that the damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian gathers in clouds here. The substance of this acupoint is the weak, Yin-damp water Qi transmitted from the Qūquán (LR-8) acupoint and the meridian water at the Earth level seeping and descending from the Zúwǔlǐ (LR-10) acupoint. Upon reaching this acupoint, both Heaven-level and Earth-level dampness gather here. This acupoint serves as a collection point for the dampness of the Liver Meridian. Hence, it is named Yīnbāo. The meaning of Yīnbāo (alias) is identical to Yīnbāo.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is the damp-wind cloud Qi at the lower Heaven level and the water fluid at the Earth level.
Movement Pattern: The Heaven-level dampness condenses into cold rain and descends; the Earth-level dampness infiltrates into the Spleen Earth.
Functions and Actions: Contracts and draws in dampness.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, reduce first then tonify, or prick to bleed, or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use water needle therapy or tonify.
10 Zúwǔlǐ (LR-10)
Alias: Wǔlǐ.
Acupoint Meaning: The cold-descending dampness of the Liver Meridian and the dust of Spleen Earth cover an area of five Li here.
Name Explanation: Zú (Foot) indicates the location of the acupoint on the foot. Wǔlǐ (Five Li) refers to the scope of action of the Qi and Blood in this acupoint being as wide as five Li. The substance of this acupoint is the cold-descending dampness transmitted from the Yīnlián (LR-11) acupoint and the Spleen Earth dust carried in the damp-wind Qi. Upon reaching this acupoint, it descends from the Heaven level to the Earth level, covering an area as wide as five Li. Hence, it is named Zúwǔlǐ. The meaning of Wǔlǐ is identical to Zúwǔlǐ.
Qi and Blood Characteristics: The substance of Qi and Blood is the damp-wind Qi at the lower Heaven level and the Spleen Earth dust carried by the wind Qi.
Movement Pattern: It cools and descends from the Heaven level to the Earth level.
Functions and Actions: Consolidates Spleen Earth, removes dampness, and descends turbidity.
Treatment Method: For Cold patterns, reduce first then tonify, or prick to bleed, or apply moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use water needle therapy or reduce by venting Qi.
11 Yīnlián (LR-11)
Acupoint Meaning: The damp-wind Qi of the Liver Meridian dissipates heat, absorbs moisture, and contracts coldly here.