Introduction

Since ancient times, ST 36 (Zusanli)  has been considered as an important acupuncture point for treating diseases and healthcare. There is a Chinese proverb: “If one wants to be healthy, he should keep the ST 36 (Zusanli)  wet all the time”, meaning that one should apply moxibustion on ST 36 (Zusanli)  frequently, to the extent that there is no time for the blisters to scab. There is another one: “Massaging on ST 36 (Zusanli)   is better than eating chickens in terms of nourishing the human body”. These proverbs indicate ST 36 (Zusanli)  is a commonly used point in daily healthcare in China.

Location

Four finger width below the bottom of knee cap, along the outer boundary of shin bone, one finger-breadth (middle finger) lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia. 

Effects

ST 36 (Zusanli) , the He-Sea point of the Stomach Meridian, has functions including: (1) harmonizing the stomach and nourishing the spleen; (2) resolving phlegm and stimulating bowels to relieve constipation; (3) regulating qi; (4)strengthening one’s body and preventing diseases, and etc.

Indications

Acupuncture and moxibustion on ST 36 (Zusanli)  can treat a myriad of diseases especially when combined with other acupuncture points. These diseases include gastric pain, vomiting, abdominal distention, borborygmus, diarrhea, indigestion, dysentery, constipation, emaciation, palpitation, shortness of breath, poor appetite, lassitude, dizziness, cough and asthma, pain in the knee joint, apoplexy, hemiplegia, beriberi, edema, and etc.

Tips

A. If you are qualified or if there is an acupuncturist available, acupuncture is a good choice. It is recommended to perpendicularly insert the needle 1-2 Cun deep.

B. Moxibustion on ST 36 (Zusanli)  is strongly recommended to boost qi and blood, once every other day.

C. Self-massage is convenient and works well too. First, locate  ST 36 (Zusanli) , and use a thumb (or any strong finger) to press the point for 15-20 minutes.  Self-massage can be performed whenever one has spare time.