Qiuhou Point (EX-HN7 / Behind the Eyeball)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Qiuhou (EX-HN7 / Behind the Eyeball). Learn its benefits for optic atrophy, glaucoma, cataracts, and myopia – the extraordinary point for eye health – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Clears heat and brightens the eyes. Treats optic neuritis, optic atrophy, retinitis pigmentosa, glaucoma, early-stage cataracts, myopia, and strabismus.
Precise Location
On the face, at the junction of the lateral 1/4 and medial 3/4 of the infraorbital margin.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine. On the infraorbital margin, measure from the outer canthus – the point is approximately at the junction of the lateral 1/4 and medial 3/4 of the infraorbital margin, where slight depression can be felt.
Massage Method
Press and knead Qiuhou with the index fingertip for 3–5 minutes daily to treat eye disorders such as myopia, strabismus, and glaucoma. Keep the eyes closed during manipulation; technique should be gentle without pressing on the eyeball. Therapeutic actions: Clears heat and brightens the eyes, unblocks the collaterals and nourishes the eyes.
Compatibility
Blurred vision: Combine with Jingming (BL-1) and Guangming (GB-37). Glaucoma: Combine with Fengchi (GB-20), Quchi (LI-11), Hegu (LI-4), and Taichong (LR-3). Optic atrophy: Combine with Jingming (BL-1), Chengqi (ST-1), and Fengchi (GB-20). Early-stage cataracts: Combine with Jingming (BL-1), Taiyang (EX-HN5), and Guangming (GB-37). Myopia: Combine with Jingming (BL-1), Chengqi (ST-1), and Sibai (ST-2).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located on the lateral side of the infraorbital margin. It clears heat and brightens the eyes, unblocks the collaterals and nourishes the eyes. It is a commonly used key point for treating fundus diseases and visual impairment. First documented in the Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion. "Qiu" refers to the eyeball; "Hou" means behind. Located behind the eyeball, deep needling can reach the fundus – hence the name Qiuhou (Behind the Eyeball). Qiuhou is a key point for ophthalmology, with good therapeutic effects on various fundus diseases. It is often combined with other eye points to effectively improve vision.
Contraindications
Qiuhou is located close to the eyeball – needling should be performed slowly along the infraorbital margin. Lifting-thrusting and twisting should be avoided. After withdrawal, press the needle hole for 1–2 minutes to prevent bleeding. Massage should be gentle without pressing on the eyeball. Use with caution in pregnant women.
