Yindu Point (KI-19 / Yin Metropolis, also known as Shigong)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Yindu (KI-19 / Yin Metropolis). Learn its benefits for abdominal distension, pain, vomiting, constipation, and infertility – the meeting point of Kidney and Chong – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Abdominal distension, borborygmus (hyperactive bowel sounds), abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, female infertility, epigastric distension and pain, and diarrhea.
Precise Location
In the upper abdomen, 4 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine. Measure 5 finger-widths (approximately 4 cun) upward from the umbilicus – the point is 0.5 cun (about half a finger-width) lateral to the 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 Yindu with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes, to treat epigastric distension and pain, and vomiting. Therapeutic actions: Strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, regulates qi and descends rebellious qi, and regulates menstruation and promotes fertility.
Compatibility
Amenorrhea: Combine with Sanyinjiao (SP-6) and Xuehai (SP-10). Abdominal distension and pain: Combine with Tianshu (ST-25) and Zusanli (ST-36). Vomiting: Combine with Zhongwan (RN-12) and Neiguan (PC-6). Constipation: Combine with Zhigou (TE-6) and Shangjuxu (ST-37). Infertility: Combine with Guanyuan (RN-4), Sanyinjiao (SP-6), and Shenshu (BL-23).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian and is the meeting point of the Kidney Meridian and the Chong Vessel. It strengthens the spleen and harmonizes the stomach, regulates qi and descends rebellious qi, and regulates menstruation and promotes fertility. It is a commonly used key point for treating digestive system and gynecological disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Yin" refers to the yin meridians; "Du" means metropolis or gathering place. Located in the upper abdomen, this point is where qi of the Kidney Meridian and the Chong Vessel gathers – hence the name Yindu (Yin Metropolis). It is also known as "Shigong."
