Meridian Points Chart for Acupuncture – Blog Visuals are Free to Use with Attribution (2024)

Acupuncture

Mar 30

Written By Dr. James Lu - PT, DPT, Dipl. OM, OCS, MTC, CSAS, LAc

Introduction

In this blog post, we provide visuals of meridian points for you! Feel free to use the toolbar on the side to quickly navigate to your desired points. The purpose of this blog is to provide visual and educational materials for the acupuncture community. Enjoy!

Brief History of Acupuncture Points

The number of acupuncture points traditionally corresponded to various symbolic numbers, but there was never a universally accepted standard due to regional variations in how points were identified across Asia. In an effort to standardize these points for international use, the World Health Organization (WHO) convened a Scientific Group in 1989, which resulted in the adoption of a proposed standard acupuncture nomenclature. This standard includes 361 classical acupuncture points.

In addition to these 361 classical points, the WHO recognizes the use of several extra acupuncture points in clinical practice. These extra points are widely used due to their clinical effectiveness. The exact number of these additional points can vary, but they are generally included in comprehensive acupuncture guides.

Commonly Used Points

ST-36: This point is found on the front of the leg, just below the knee. It's used to help with digestive disorders, immune deficiencies, fatigue, and other illnesses, and is known for its grounding emotional and physical effects.

SP-6: Located on the inner side of the leg, just above the ankle, this point addresses hormonal disorders such as irregular menstruation, along with digestion and immune issues.

LV-3: Found on the top of the foot between the first and second toes, this point helps treat headaches, emotional imbalances, menstrual irregularities, and high blood pressure.

GV-20: Located at the top of the head, this point is used for treating vertigo, ear and nasal disorders, and various mental health issues.

CV-12: Situated midway between the breastbone and the navel, this point focuses on treating digestive disorders and harmonizing the intestines.

CV-6: Located about 1.5 inches below the navel, this point is good for combating exhaustion, strengthening weak spleen energy, and boosting the energy of the lower abdomen and its organs.

LI-4: Found on the back side of the hand between the thumb and first finger, this point stimulates the immune system and helps alleviate facial pain.

KI-3: Located behind the inner ankle, this point is used for treating asthma, insomnia, sore throat, and lower back pain.

BL-13: Treats all lung-related issues, including asthma, bronchitis, nasal congestion, and sore throat.

BL-14: Helps with conditions related to the pericardium, including palpitations, anxiety, stress, depression, and panic attacks.

BL-15: Addresses all heart-related issues, including blood and circulatory problems. It's the main point for all emotional issues related to the heart, such as palpitations, anxiety, fear, stress, and poor memory. It can also help with insomnia and night sweats.

BL-18: The main point for all physical liver conditions, such as hepatitis, jaundice, and cirrhosis. It also helps relieve emotional issues like depression, anger, irritability, and stress.

BL-21: This point can help alleviate problems associated with the spleen, including distention, abdominal pain, bloating, and poor appetite.

BL-23: This point treats the entire kidney system. It can improve men's sexual health issues, such as impotence, as well as women's sexual and reproductive disorders like irregular menstrual cycles and infertility. It is also a main point for lower back pain and sprains, and is useful for ear-related issues like tinnitus and deafness.