Chimai Point (TE-18 / Convulsion Vessel, also known as Zimai)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Chimai (TE-18 / Convulsion Vessel). Learn its benefits for headache, tinnitus, and infantile convulsions – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Headache (migraine, occipital headache), tinnitus, infantile convulsions (fits, seizures), dizziness, corneal opacity, and deafness.
Precise Location
On the head, at the center of the mastoid process, at the junction of the upper 2/3 and lower 1/3 of the curved arc along the helix connecting Jiaosun (TE-20) and Yifeng (TE-17). Sit upright or lie laterally – level with the external auditory meatus at the posterior hairline.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie laterally. The point is at the posterior hairline, level with the external auditory meatus – 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. ③ Scraping therapy: Scrape from top to bottom. Press and knead Chimai with the thumb about 200 times, or for 3–5 minutes daily, to treat headache and tinnitus. Therapeutic actions: Clears heat and extinguishes wind, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, and calms the spirit and settles the mind.
Compatibility
Infantile convulsions: Combine with Zutonggu (BL-66), Taichong (LR-3), Sizhukong (TE-23), and Chimai (TE-18). Headache and tinnitus: Combine with Fengchi (GB-20), Yifeng (TE-17), and Shuaigu (GB-8). Dizziness and corneal opacity: Combine with Jingming (BL-1) and Taiyang (EX-HN5). Deafness: Combine with Tinggong (SI-19) and Zhongzhu (TE-3).
Efficacy & Actions
This point belongs to the Hand Shaoyang Sanjiao Meridian. It clears heat and extinguishes wind, unblocks the collaterals and relieves pain, and calms the spirit and settles the mind. It is a commonly used key point for treating head, facial, and mental disorders. First documented in Zhenjiu Jiayijing. "Chi" means spasm or convulsion; "Mai" refers to sinews and collaterals. Located behind the ear, this point treats convulsive disorders of the sinews – hence the name Chimai (Convulsion Vessel). It is also known as "Zimai."
Contraindications
Located behind the ear near blood vessels – massage should be gentle; needling should avoid blood vessels, generally 0.3–0.5 cun vertically. Moxibustion is permissible.
