BL12 Fēng Mén

Reviewed by · Licensed Acupuncturist & TCM Physician · Last reviewed June 2026

BL12 (Fēng Mén, “Fēng Mén”) is the Meeting point of BL & DU point of the Bladder Meridian. It is located on the upper back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2). It expels wind, releases the exterior, disseminates and descends Lung Qi, clears heat, strengthens the defensive Qi, and benefits the nose.

Location

On the upper back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2).

Needling

Oblique insertion towards the spine, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep perpendicular or oblique-lateral insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Expels wind, releases the exterior, disseminates and descends Lung Qi, clears heat, strengthens the defensive Qi, and benefits the nose..

Indications

Wind dizziness, headache, nasal obstruction, frequent sneezing, clear nasal discharge, cough, rebellious qi, shortness of breath, chest and back pain, wind taxation, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness from cold damage, aversion to wind, body heat, prevention of carbuncles on the back, wind stroke, sudden wind..

Meeting point of BL & DU

Clinical notes

As its name 'Wind Gate' implies, BL12 is a principal point for expelling pathogenic wind, whether hot or cold. It is essential for the early stages of common colds, influenza, and allergies, treating symptoms like chills, fever, headache, neck stiffness, sneezing, and cough. Its alternate name, 'Heat Mansion' , highlights its ability to clear heat from the upper body. Regular moxibustion on this point is traditionally used to strengthen the body's defensive Qi and prevent recurrent infections.

On the Bladder channel

BL12 is one of 67 points on the Bladder Meridian. Nearby points:

BL8BL9BL10BL11BL13BL14BL15BL16

Frequently asked questions

Where is BL12 located?

BL12 (Fēng Mén) is located on the upper back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the second thoracic vertebra (T2).

What is BL12 used for?

BL12 expels wind, releases the exterior, disseminates and descends Lung Qi, clears heat, strengthens the defensive Qi, and benefits the nose. Common clinical indications include wind dizziness, headache, nasal obstruction, frequent sneezing, clear nasal discharge, cough, rebellious qi, shortness of breath, chest and back pain, wind taxation, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness from cold damage, aversion to wind, body heat, prevention of carbuncles on the back, wind stroke, sudden wind.

How is BL12 needled?

Oblique insertion towards the spine, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep perpendicular or oblique-lateral insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall.

Which meridian is BL12 on?

BL12 is a point on the Bladder Meridian (Zú Tài Yáng Páng Guāng Jīng).

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⚠️ This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Acupuncture is a traditional practice; evidence varies by condition and study quality, and individual results differ. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Always consult a qualified acupuncturist or physician.