Jingmen Point (GB-25 / Capital Gate, Kidney Mu Point)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Jingmen (GB-25 / Capital Gate). Learn its benefits for hypochondriac pain, abdominal distension, lumbar pain, and urinary disorders – the Kidney Mu-Front point – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Hypochondriac pain, abdominal distension, lumbar and spinal pain, difficult urination, edema, lumbar pain, and diarrhea.
Precise Location
On the lateral lumbar region, below the free end of the 12th rib.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie laterally. From Zhangmen (LR-13), measure 2 finger-widths (approximately 2 cun) posteriorly – the point is in the depression below the free end of the 12th rib, where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation. Alternatively, locate the free end of the 12th rib – the point is in the depression directly below it.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Jingmen with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to treat chest fullness with hypochondriac pain and abdominal pain. Therapeutic actions: Tonifies the kidney and supplements qi, unblocks the water passages, regulates qi and relieves pain, and strengthens the lumbar region and knees.
Compatibility
Hypochondriac pain and chest fullness: Combine with Yanglingquan (GB-34) and Zhigou (TE-6). Abdominal distension and pain: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25) and Zusanli (ST-36). Lumbar and spinal pain and lumbar pain: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23) and Weizhong (BL-40). Difficult urination and edema: Combine with Zhongji (RN-3), Yinlingquan (SP-9), and Sanjiaoshu (BL-22). Diarrhea: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25) and Shangjuxu (ST-37).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian and is the Mu-Front point of the Kidney. It tonifies the kidney and supplements qi, unblocks the water passages, regulates qi and relieves pain, and strengthens the lumbar region and knees. It is a commonly used key point for treating kidney, lumbar, and abdominal disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Jing" means capital or grand; "Men" means gate or door. As the Mu-Front point of the Kidney, kidney qi is transported to this point, serving as the gateway for kidney qi – hence the name Jingmen (Capital Gate). It is also known as "Qifu" and "Kidney Mu."
