DU14 Great Hammer

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

DU14 (Dazhui, “Great Hammer”) is the Meeting point of all Yang meridians point of the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the posterior midline, in the depression inferior to the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7). It clears heat, dispels wind, and strengthens the body.

Location

On the posterior midline, in the depression inferior to the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7).

Needling

Oblique insertion superiorly 0.5-1.5 cun. Caution for pneumothorax.

⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

TCM functions

Clears heat, dispels wind, and strengthens the body.

Indications

Fever, common cold, cough, asthma, neck rigidity, epilepsy, malaria, urticaria.

Meeting point of all Yang meridians

Clinical notes

DU14, the meeting point of all Yang meridians, is a command point for clearing heat and expelling wind from the entire body. It is renowned for treating high fever, malaria, and various wind syndromes, including epilepsy and neck rigidity. As a major point for strengthening the body's defensive qi, it is frequently used to prevent colds and flu. Its classical pairing with LI11 strongly reinforces its fever-reducing capabilities.

On the Governing Vessel channel

DU14 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is DU14 located?

DU14 (Dazhui) is located on the posterior midline, in the depression inferior to the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7).

What is DU14 used for?

DU14 clears heat, dispels wind, and strengthens the body. Common clinical indications include fever, common cold, cough, asthma, neck rigidity, epilepsy, malaria, urticaria.

How is DU14 needled?

Oblique insertion superiorly 0.5-1.5 cun. Caution for pneumothorax. Caution: ⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

Which meridian is DU14 on?

DU14 is a point on the Governing Vessel Meridian (Dū Mài).

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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.