Yuanye Point (GB-22 / Armpit Deep Pool, also known as Yuanye, Quanye)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Yuanye (GB-22 / Armpit Deep Pool). Learn its benefits for chest fullness, hypochondriac pain, axillary swelling, and arm pain – the meeting point of Gallbladder and Yin Wei – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Chest fullness, hypochondriac pain, axillary swelling, arm pain with inability to raise, chest and hypochondriac distension with pain, and cough with wheezing.
Precise Location
In the lateral thoracic region, in the 4th intercostal space, on the mid-axillary line.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie laterally with the arm raised. The point is in the 4th intercostal space on the mid-axillary line (approximately at the level of the nipple, laterally to the axillary midline) – 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 Yuanye with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat chest fullness and hypochondriac pain. Therapeutic actions: Soothes the chest and regulates qi, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, and reduces swelling and disperses nodules.
Compatibility
Chest and hypochondriac pain: Combine with Dabao (SP-21) and Zhigou (TE-6). Arm pain with inability to raise: Combine with Jianliao (TE-14), Quchi (LI-11), and Shousanli (LI-10). Axillary swelling: Combine with Jiquan (HT-1) and Jianjing (GB-21). Cough and wheezing: Combine with Feishu (BL-13), Tanzhong (RN-17), and Tiantu (RN-22). Chest fullness: Combine with Neiguan (PC-6) and Tanzhong (RN-17).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian and is the meeting point of the Gallbladder Meridian and the Yin Wei Vessel. It soothes the chest and regulates qi, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, and reduces swelling and disperses nodules. It is a commonly used key point for treating chest, hypochondriac, and upper limb disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Yuan" means deep pool or abyss; "Ye" refers to the armpit. Located deep in the depression of the armpit, this point is where Gallbladder Meridian qi gathers like a deep pool – hence the name Yuanye (Armpit Deep Pool). It is also known as "Yuanye" and "Quanye."
