DU28 Yinjiao

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

DU28 (Yinjiao, “Yinjiao”) is an acupuncture point on the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the inside of the upper lip, at the junction of the frenulum and the upper gum. It clears heat, resolves swelling, calms the spirit, and benefits the eyes, nose, and gums.

Location

On the inside of the upper lip, at the junction of the frenulum and the upper gum.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique-superior insertion 0.1-0.2 cun. Bleeding the point is also common.

TCM functions

Clears heat, resolves swelling, calms the spirit, and benefits the eyes, nose, and gums..

Indications

Lockjaw (trismus), pulling sensation in the nose, tearing with copious eye discharge, redness, pain, and itching of the inner canthus, white superficial visual obstruction (pterygium/cataract), facial redness with vexation and heart pain, nasal congestion, nasal polyps, nasal sores, erosive sores in the nose, pain in the nasal bridge and forehead, mouth cannot be held closed, mouth sores, epilepsy with mutual pulling, tetanic inversion, vexation and fullness, toothache, gingival pain, lip and mouth stiffness..

Clinical notes

Yinjiao is the terminal point of the Governing Vessel and a key meeting point with the Conception and Stomach channels, making it significant for conditions of the face, mouth, nose, and eyes. It is particularly effective for acute lumbar sprain, where pricking the point to bleed can provide immediate relief. Clinically, it is also a primary local point for gum swelling, mouth sores, and nasal polyps, often treated by pricking or shallow needling.

On the Governing Vessel channel

DU28 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is DU28 located?

DU28 (Yinjiao) is located on the inside of the upper lip, at the junction of the frenulum and the upper gum.

What is DU28 used for?

DU28 clears heat, resolves swelling, calms the spirit, and benefits the eyes, nose, and gums. Common clinical indications include lockjaw (trismus), pulling sensation in the nose, tearing with copious eye discharge, redness, pain, and itching of the inner canthus, white superficial visual obstruction (pterygium/cataract), facial redness with vexation and heart pain, nasal congestion, nasal polyps, nasal sores, erosive sores in the nose, pain in the nasal bridge and forehead, mouth cannot be held closed, mouth sores, epilepsy with mutual pulling, tetanic inversion, vexation and fullness, toothache, gingival pain, lip and mouth stiffness.

How is DU28 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique-superior insertion 0.1-0.2 cun. Bleeding the point is also common.

Which meridian is DU28 on?

DU28 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.