DU27 Duiduan means 'Extremity of the Mouth'

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

DU27 (Duiduan, “Duiduan means 'Extremity of the Mouth'”) is an acupuncture point on the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the midline of the face, at the superior tip of the upper lip, where the skin meets the vermilion border at the apex of the philtrum. It clears heat, calms the spirit, benefits the mouth and gums, and alleviates pain.

Location

On the midline of the face, at the superior tip of the upper lip, where the skin meets the vermilion border at the apex of the philtrum.

Needling

Oblique insertion superiorly 0.2 to 0.3 cun, or prick to bleed.

TCM functions

Clears heat, calms the spirit, benefits the mouth and gums, and alleviates pain..

Indications

Lockjaw with chattering jaw, gum pain, upper toothache, lip tremor and stiffness, epilepsy with vomiting of foam, dry tongue, thirst , yellow urine, nosebleed, nasal congestion, convulsions, tetanus-like spasms with lip stiffness..

Clinical notes

Duiduan is a local point primarily used for conditions of the mouth, lips, and gums, such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. Its classical indications for epilepsy and lockjaw highlight its function in calming internal wind and reviving consciousness, similar to its neighbors Renzhong (DU26) and Chengjiang (CV24). Clinically, it is effective for acute dental pain, especially of the upper incisors, and can be pricked to bleed for local heat conditions.

On the Governing Vessel channel

DU27 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is DU27 located?

DU27 (Duiduan) is located on the midline of the face, at the superior tip of the upper lip, where the skin meets the vermilion border at the apex of the philtrum.

What is DU27 used for?

DU27 clears heat, calms the spirit, benefits the mouth and gums, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include lockjaw with chattering jaw, gum pain, upper toothache, lip tremor and stiffness, epilepsy with vomiting of foam, dry tongue, thirst , yellow urine, nosebleed, nasal congestion, convulsions, tetanus-like spasms with lip stiffness.

How is DU27 needled?

Oblique insertion superiorly 0.2 to 0.3 cun, or prick to bleed.

Which meridian is DU27 on?

DU27 is a point on the Governing Vessel Meridian (Dū Mài).

Interactive body mapConditions & evidenceFind an acupuncturistTCM glossary
⚠️ 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.