DU26 Renzhong

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

DU26 (Renzhong, “Renzhong”) is the Ghost point point of the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the midline of the face, within the philtrum (the vertical groove below the nose), approximately one-third of the distance from the base of the nose to the upper border of the lip. It restores consciousness, revives from collapse, calms the spirit, benefits the face and nose, and alleviates acute lumbar pain.

Location

On the midline of the face, within the philtrum (the vertical groove below the nose), approximately one-third of the distance from the base of the nose to the upper border of the lip.

Needling

Insert obliquely upward 0.3 to 0.5 cun, or prick to bleed.

TCM functions

Restores consciousness, revives from collapse, calms the spirit, benefits the face and nose, and alleviates acute lumbar pain..

Indications

Loss of consciousness, corpse-like collapse (shi jue), epilepsy, madness, convulsions, lockjaw, deviation of the mouth, facial swelling, water swelling where the philtrum is full, eye twitching, inability to consume water or liquids, drooling, nosebleed, nasal congestion, nasal polyps, loss of smell, acute lumbar pain, mutual pulling in epilepsy, evil-induced epilepsy, cold and heat..

Ghost point

Clinical notes

DU26 is the primary point for reviving consciousness from fainting, collapse, or seizure, making it a crucial first-aid point. Its strong action of opening the orifices and calming the spirit is applied in acute emergencies and for severe psychiatric disorders like mania. It is also a distal point for acute lumbar sprain, often producing immediate relief, and is effective for facial paralysis and nasal disorders.

On the Governing Vessel channel

DU26 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is DU26 located?

DU26 (Renzhong) is located on the midline of the face, within the philtrum (the vertical groove below the nose), approximately one-third of the distance from the base of the nose to the upper border of the lip.

What is DU26 used for?

DU26 restores consciousness, revives from collapse, calms the spirit, benefits the face and nose, and alleviates acute lumbar pain. Common clinical indications include loss of consciousness, corpse-like collapse (shi jue), epilepsy, madness, convulsions, lockjaw, deviation of the mouth, facial swelling, water swelling where the philtrum is full, eye twitching, inability to consume water or liquids, drooling, nosebleed, nasal congestion, nasal polyps, loss of smell, acute lumbar pain, mutual pulling in epilepsy, evil-induced epilepsy, cold and heat.

How is DU26 needled?

Insert obliquely upward 0.3 to 0.5 cun, or prick to bleed.

Which meridian is DU26 on?

DU26 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.