Duyin Point (EX-LE11 / Single Yin)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Duyin (EX-LE11 / Single Yin). Learn its benefits for inguinal hernia, retained placenta, irregular menstruation, and vomiting – the extraordinary point on the toe – plus classic combinations and moxibustion techniques for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Regulates Chong and Ren, warms the meridians and dispels cold, regulates qi and menstruation, descends rebellious qi and stops vomiting. Treats inguinal hernia, stillbirth, retained placenta, dry vomiting, hematemesis, irregular menstruation, lower abdominal pain, and retained placenta.
Precise Location
At the midpoint of the distal interphalangeal joint on the plantar side of the 2nd toe.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine. Locate the point at the midpoint of the transverse crease of the distal interphalangeal joint on the plantar side of the 2nd toe. One point on each side.
Massage Method
Press and knead with the thumb pad for 3–5 minutes per session, 1–2 times daily – a local sore-distending sensation is optimal. Clinical practice commonly uses moxibustion: direct cone moxibustion with 5–7 cones, or mild-warm moxa stick for 10–15 minutes until local skin becomes flushed. Therapeutic actions: Regulates Chong and Ren, warms the meridians and dispels cold, regulates qi and menstruation, descends rebellious qi and stops vomiting.
Compatibility
Inguinal hernia: Combine with Dadun (LR-1) and Guilai (ST-29). Retained placenta and stillbirth: Combine with Hegu (LI-4), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Zhiyin (BL-67). Irregular menstruation: Combine with Guanyuan (RN-4), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Xuehai (SP-10). Dry vomiting and hematemesis: Combine with Neiguan (PC-6) and Zhongwan (RN-12). Lower abdominal pain: Combine with Qihai (RN-6) and Sanyinjiao (SP-6).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located at the midpoint of the distal interphalangeal joint on the plantar side of the 2nd toe. It regulates Chong and Ren, warms the meridians and dispels cold, regulates qi and menstruation, and descends rebellious qi and stops vomiting. It is an experienced effective point for treating gynecological disorders and hernia. First documented in the Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion. "Du" means single or sole; "Yin" refers to the yin meridians and the genital region. Located on the yin (plantar) side of the toe, this point treats genital disorders and women's diseases – hence the name Duyin (Single Yin). Duyin is an experienced effective point for treating gynecological disorders and hernia, with good therapeutic effects on irregular menstruation, retained placenta, and dry vomiting. Moxibustion is commonly used in clinical practice, especially with cone moxibustion producing significant results.
Contraindications
Located at the toe joint – needling should be superficial, generally 0.1–0.2 cun, or pricking for bleeding, avoiding deep insertion. Moxibustion is commonly used. Use with caution in pregnant women. Treatment for retained placenta and stillbirth should be conducted under medical guidance, with timely medical attention when necessary.
