ST 36

Acupuncture Point Theory

ST 36 Acupuncture Point Applications and Theory

The acupuncture point "ST 36" , 足三里, is represented by "Zusanli" in pinyin and "Leg Three Li" in english and may be found:

3 cun below ST 35, one finger width lateral from the anterior border of the tibia.


Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:

  • Tonify deficient Qi a/or Blood.
  • Tonify Wei Qi and Qi overall - low immunity, chronic illness, poor digestion, general weakness, particularly with moxibustion, very important acupuncture point for building and maintaining overall health.
  • All issues involving the Stomach a/or the Spleen - abdominal/epigastric pain, borborygmus, bloating, nausea, vomiting, GERD, hiccups, diarrhea, constipation, etc.
  • Clear disorders along the course of the channel - breast problems, lower leg pain.
  • Earth as the mother of Metal - will support Lung function in cases of asthma, wheezing, dyspnea.
  • Psychological/Emotional disorders - PMS, depression, nervousness, insomnia.


St 36 has the following theoretical associations which serve as important guideposts in designing an effective treatment protocol:

Explore st 36 functional groupings theory - Command Point, Four Seas and/or Lower He Sea, or read all point categories and related theory.

A single acupuncture point is not commonly thought of as an empirical way to influence a TCM diagnostic pattern. ST36, however, is a strong candidate to be incorporated into an acupuncture protocol for patients who exhibit: Lung Qi Deficiency, Spleen Blood Deficiency and/or Spleen Qi Deficiency

ST 36 may potentially be used, in coordination with a well designed acupuncture treatment protocol, to influence the following conditions: Abdominal Pain, Asthma, Breast Distention, Constipation, Diabetes Type I, Diabetes Type II, Diarrhea, Immunity, Leg Pain, Muscle Weakness, Nausea and/or Wheezing (Dyspnea)

While not necessarily valid clinically, GB 34 (Hui Meeting of the Sinews - useful for treating s…), LV 7 (Local point.) and SP 9 (He Sea point - drains dampness (generally through…) are nearby.

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