Small Intestine Meridian of Hand-Taiyang (SI)
The Small Intestine Meridian of Hand-Taiyang is a meridian that possesses the functions of calming the mind and tranquilizing the spirit, and relaxing the sinews and activating the collaterals. Massaging the acupoints along this meridian can dredge the meridian qi and relieve fatigue. The Small Intestine Meridian originates from the ulnar aspect of the tip of the little finger. Finally, via its branch, it reaches the zygomatic region, where it connects with the Bladder Meridian of Foot-Taiyang. It mainly travels through the upper limb, the shoulder, and parts of the head.
Active Hours
Wei hour, Small Intestine Meridian
Functions
The Lingshu (Spiritual Pivot), in the chapter "Meridians" (Jing Mai), records: "The Small Intestine Meridian of Hand-Taiyang governs disorders of the 'fluids' (ye): deafness, yellow eyes, swelling of the cheek, and pain along the posterior border of the lateral aspect of the neck, jaw, shoulder, upper arm, elbow, and forearm."
Related Conditions
Visceral patterns (Zang-fu symptoms): When the Small Intestine Meridian is obstructed, symptoms such as vexation, oppression in the chest, bearing-down pain and heaviness in the vertex, urinary blockage (anuria), reddish-yellow urine, hernia, lower back pain, and incessant night sweats may occur. Meridian patterns (Jing-luo symptoms): When this meridian is affected by pathological changes, there may be sore throat, deafness, otitis media, eye pain, swelling of the lower jaw, stiff neck (torticollis), headache, tonsillitis, insomnia, shoulder pain, lumbar sprain, and pain in the shoulder and along the posterior-medial aspect of the upper limb where the meridian passes, among other symptoms.
Daily Care
The small intestine separates the clear from the turbid. It directs body fluids to the bladder, transmits waste to the large intestine, and transports the refined essence to the spleen. During the Wei hour (1:00–3:00 p.m.), it adjusts and distributes the nutrients absorbed throughout the day. Therefore, lunch must be finished before 1:00 p.m. so that the nutrients can be fully absorbed when the small intestine is at its most vigorous. Otherwise, they will be wasted. After lunch, the Wei hour is exactly when the Small Intestine Meridian is in command. Massaging the acupoints along the meridian’s pathway with appropriate force yields the best results. For the shoulder region, you can ask someone to help with the massage. Each session of about 10 minutes is sufficient.
Acupoints
No acupoints listed for this meridian yet.