Huangmen Point (BL-51 / Door of the Huang Region)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Huangmen (BL-51 / Door of the Huang Region). Learn its benefits for abdominal masses, mastitis, epigastric pain, and constipation – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Abdominal masses, acute mastitis, epigastric pain, constipation, abdominal distension, and lumbar pain.
Precise Location
In the lumbar region, below the spinous process of the 1st lumbar vertebra, 3 cun lateral to the posterior midline.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie prone. First locate the spinous process of the 2nd lumbar vertebra (at the level of the umbilicus), count 1 vertebra upward to the spinous process of the 1st lumbar vertebra – the point is 4 finger-widths (approximately 3 cun) lateral to the lower edge of this spinous process.
Massage Method
Massage: Press and knead with the thumb. Press and knead Huangmen with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat epigastric pain and constipation. Therapeutic actions: Regulates qi and disperses masses, regulates the stomach and intestines, activates blood and disperses nodules.
Compatibility
Constipation: Combine with Qihai (RN-6) and Tianshu (ST-25). Epigastric pain and abdominal distension: Combine with Zhongwan (RN-12) and Zusanli (ST-36). Acute mastitis: Combine with Tanzhong (RN-17), Rugen (ST-18), and Jianjing (GB-21). Abdominal masses: Combine with Sanjiaoshu (BL-22) and Qihai (RN-6).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian. It regulates qi and disperses masses, regulates the stomach and intestines, activates blood and disperses nodules. It is a commonly used key point for treating abdominal masses and digestive system disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Huang" refers to the membrane or the gaohuang region; "Men" means gate or door. Located in the lumbar region, this point serves as the gateway for qi of the huang region to enter and exit – hence the name Huangmen (Door of the Huang Region).
Contraindications
Located in the lumbar region, needling should not be too deep – generally 0.8–1.2 cun vertically to avoid injury to internal organs. Moxibustion is permissible.
