DU23 Upper Star

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

DU23 (Shangxing, “Upper Star”) is the Ghost point point of the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the midline of the head, in a palpable depression one cun posterior to the anterior hairline, directly superior to the nose. It clears the head and nose, brightens the eyes, calms the spirit, dispels wind and heat.

Location

On the midline of the head, in a palpable depression one cun posterior to the anterior hairline, directly superior to the nose.

Needling

Subcutaneous (transverse) insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun, typically directed posteriorly along the channel.

TCM functions

Clears the head and nose, brightens the eyes, calms the spirit, dispels wind and heat..

Indications

Headache, head wind, head wind with dizziness, head heaviness, head pain as if splitting, malarial headache with chills, heat disease with no sweat, epilepsy, eye pain, eye pain that prevents seeing, eye dizziness, inability to see far, mouth and nose bleeding, nosebleed, nasal polyps, nasal congestion, profuse nasal discharge, facial swelling, face turning blue, eye twitching with upward gaze, inability to recognize people, madness, mania, ghost talk, desire to kill people, desire to commit suicide, fright, palpitations, vexation, fever..

Ghost point

Clinical notes

Shangxing is a primary point for disorders of the nose, eyes, and mind. Its location on the Governing Vessel and its classical name 'Ghost Hall' highlight its utility for clearing heat and wind from the head to treat nasal congestion, nosebleeds, eye pain, and headaches. Furthermore, its function extends to calming the spirit, making it a crucial point in classical prescriptions for mania, epilepsy, and severe emotional disturbances.

On the Governing Vessel channel

DU23 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is DU23 located?

DU23 (Shangxing) is located on the midline of the head, in a palpable depression one cun posterior to the anterior hairline, directly superior to the nose.

What is DU23 used for?

DU23 clears the head and nose, brightens the eyes, calms the spirit, dispels wind and heat. Common clinical indications include headache, head wind, head wind with dizziness, head heaviness, head pain as if splitting, malarial headache with chills, heat disease with no sweat, epilepsy, eye pain, eye pain that prevents seeing, eye dizziness, inability to see far, mouth and nose bleeding, nosebleed, nasal polyps, nasal congestion, profuse nasal discharge, facial swelling, face turning blue, eye twitching with upward gaze, inability to recognize people, madness, mania, ghost talk, desire to kill people, desire to commit suicide, fright, palpitations, vexation, fever.

How is DU23 needled?

Subcutaneous (transverse) insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun, typically directed posteriorly along the channel.

Which meridian is DU23 on?

DU23 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.