Weekly Acupuncture Point
The small acupuncture points contain profound health principles.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) states, “Heaven nourishes humans with the five qi, and the heavenly qi connects through the nose; Earth nourishes humans with the five flavors, and the earthly qi connects through the mouth.” This means that the nose can breathe in the heavenly qi, receiving the will of heaven, while the mouth can consume the grains of the earth, connecting with the earthly qi. The Ren Zhong (人中) point is located just below the nose and above the mouth, representing the space between heaven and earth, and thus is named Ren Zhong, meaning ‘Human Center.’
Acupuncture Point Definition
Ren Zhong, also known as Shui Gou (Water Ditch), is located below the nasal column and belongs to the Du Mai (Governing Vessel). It has functions such as awakening the spirit, opening the orifices, harmonizing yin and yang, calming the mind, relieving spasms, and promoting circulation. It has historically been used as a primary acupuncture point for emergency treatment in clinical practice.
Location and Needling Method
This point is located on the face, at the intersection of the upper one-third and middle one-third of the philtrum.
Functions and Efficacy
1. Awakening the Spirit: Ren Zhong has the effect of awakening the spirit and opening the orifices, facilitating the recovery of individuals who have fainted. It is commonly used in emergencies for conditions such as epilepsy, stroke, and fainting, stimulating this point to promote awakening and prevent damage from prolonged unconsciousness.
2. Relieving Spasms and Pain: Stimulating Ren Zhong can also promote the smooth flow of local meridians, helping to relieve spasms and pain, and providing relief for discomfort caused by facial paralysis.
3. Alleviating Lower Back Pain: For patients with lumbar disc herniation or lumbar muscle strain, stimulation of Ren Zhong, Ah Shi points, and Cheng Shan (承山) points can help alleviate lower back pain symptoms under medical guidance.
4. Treating Nasal and Oral Conditions: For patients with nasal congestion, nosebleeds, or facial asymmetry, acupuncture at Ren Zhong, or in combination with Ying Xiang (迎香) and Kong Zui (孔最) points, can improve these discomforts.
Health Maintenance Methods
As the primary acupuncture point for treating fainting, when needling, the needle tip should be directed towards the nasal septum with strong stimulation. Generally, mild unconsciousness can show immediate effects, while in severe cases, a three-edged needle can be used to prick Ren Zhong for bloodletting; alternatively, the thumb can be used to apply pressure, with strong stimulation for 3-5 minutes being appropriate.
In summer, high temperatures can lead to heatstroke, presenting symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, chest tightness, dizziness, drowsiness, and collapse, with severe cases resulting in convulsions, seizures, or even coma. In such cases, immediate pressure on Ren Zhong with increasing force for 5 minutes can awaken the spirit, release heat and detoxify, extinguish wind and stop spasms, alleviating heatstroke symptoms. For mild dizziness, gentle pressure on the abdomen for several seconds, repeated for 2-3 minutes, can generally relieve symptoms.
It is important to note that for certain specific diseases or conditions, such as during pregnancy or certain chronic illnesses, one should follow medical advice and avoid arbitrary massage of Ren Zhong. Additionally, if pain or discomfort is felt during massage, one should immediately stop and consult a professional.
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Editor | Comprehensive Office
