Acupuncture has been practised for thousands of years, blending deep tradition with modern clinical insights. It's trusted for its ability to balance energy, relieve pain, and support healing. But even within this ancient practice, there are rules, and some points come with clear warnings attached.
Today, we're exploring a topic that's often only briefly mentioned in training: the "forbidden points." These are acupuncture points traditionally avoided in specific situations because of the potential risks they pose.
Let’s dive into what the five forbidden acupuncture points are, why they earned their reputation, and when to be especially cautious.
What Makes a Point "Forbidden"?
In acupuncture, "forbidden" doesn’t necessarily mean "never use." More accurately, it means "use with caution" or "avoid in specific conditions." Historically, these points are primarily contraindicated during pregnancy due to their strong effects on the body’s energy (Qi) and blood flow.
When used improperly, these points could potentially stimulate uterine contractions or otherwise interfere with the body's natural processes.
1. LI4 (Hegu)
Located on the dorsum of the hand, between the thumb and index finger, LI4 is one of the most powerful acupuncture points. It’s commonly used for pain relief and to promote labour.
Why It's Forbidden: LI4 can strongly move Qi throughout the body and stimulate uterine contractions. This makes it extremely effective for encouraging labour, but risky in the early or middle stages of pregnancy.
Use With Caution: Unless you’re specifically working to assist with labour at full term, it’s best to avoid LI4 during pregnancy.
2. SP6 (Sanyinjiao)
SP6 is located above the ankle, along the spleen meridian. It’s revered for its ability to address digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, and even insomnia.
Why It's Forbidden: SP6 crosses three major meridians (Spleen, Liver, and Kidney) and has a strong descending action. This descending energy can stimulate uterine activity — helpful during labour, but dangerous earlier on.
Use With Caution: Practitioners often avoid SP6 until the final stages of pregnancy or labour induction protocols.
3. BL60 (Kunlun)
Found between the lateral malleolus (ankle bone) and the Achilles tendon, BL60 is a go-to point for back pain and difficult labour.
Why It's Forbidden: BL60 is known for its ability to promote labor and move stagnation forcefully through the body. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it's linked with expelling wind and clearing heat, all of which can impact pregnancy.
Use With Caution: Avoid unless labour stimulation is desired, and always assess the full health picture of your patient.
4. GB21 (Jianjing)
Situated at the highest point of the shoulders, GB21 is a powerful point for relieving tension and stress.
Why It's Forbidden: This point is known to strongly descend Qi and is frequently used to promote labour or even assist with retained placenta post-birth.
Use With Caution: While GB21 offers tremendous relief for shoulder tension, it should be skipped during pregnancy unless labour is being encouraged under professional guidance.
5. BL67 (Zhiyin)
BL67 is located at the outer corner of the pinky toenail. Despite its size, it has a big reputation in acupuncture circles.
Why It's Forbidden: Traditionally used to turn breech babies and promote labour, BL67 is extremely potent. Stimulating this point can have a powerful influence on uterine activity.
Use With Caution: This point should only be used under controlled conditions, typically under the supervision of someone experienced in pregnancy and birth acupuncture.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the power of acupuncture points — both their benefits and their risks — is part of being a responsible and effective practitioner.
When it comes to the forbidden points, it’s not about fear; it’s about respect. Knowing when to use a point and when to avoid it can make all the difference in your practice.
Always consult the latest guidelines, listen carefully to your patients’ needs, and when in doubt, err on the side of caution. Acupuncture is a tool of balance, and knowledge is the first step toward mastering it.
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