Yuzhong Point (KI-26 / Prosperous Center, also known as Yuzhongshu)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Yuzhong (KI-26 / Prosperous Center). Learn its benefits for cough, wheezing, and chest fullness – the Kidney meridian point for soothing the chest – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Cough, wheezing, chest and hypochondriac fullness, chest tightness, chest pain, and cough with qi counterflow.
Precise Location
On the chest, in the 1st intercostal space, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine. Move three intercostal spaces upward from the nipple (the nipple is approximately at the 4th intercostal space) to reach the 1st intercostal space – the point is 3 finger-widths (approximately 2 cun) lateral to the anterior midline, where firm pressure produces a distinct sore and distending sensation.
Massage Method
① Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. ② Moxibustion: Apply mild-warm moxa stick. Press and knead Yuzhong with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat cough, wheezing, and chest and hypochondriac fullness. Therapeutic actions: Soothes the chest and regulates qi, disperses lung qi and stops cough, descends rebellious qi and relieves wheezing.
Compatibility
Cough and wheezing: Combine with Tiantu (RN-22), Tanzhong (RN-17), and Feishu (BL-13). Chest and hypochondriac fullness and chest tightness: Combine with Tanzhong (RN-17) and Neiguan (PC-6). Cough with qi counterflow: Combine with Dingchuan (EX-B1) and Lieque (LU-7).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian. It soothes the chest and regulates qi, disperses lung qi and stops cough, and descends rebellious qi and relieves wheezing. It is a commonly used key point for treating chest, lung, and respiratory system disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. “Yu” means flourishing or prosperous; “Zhong” means center. Located on the chest, this point is where Kidney Meridian qi flourishes – hence the name Yuzhong (Prosperous Center). It is also known as “Yuzhongshu.”
