DU4 (Mingmen, “Life Gate”) is an acupuncture point on the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the lower back, on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 15th vertebra (L2). It tonifies Kidney Yang, strengthens the lumbar spine, regulates Governing Vessel.
On the lower back, on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 15th vertebra (L2).
Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Caution for spinal cord injury.
Tonifies Kidney Yang, strengthens the lumbar spine, regulates Governing Vessel.
Low back pain, impotence, nocturnal emission, irregular menstruation, leukorrhea, diarrhea, fatigue, cold limbs.
DU4, the 'Life Gate,' is one of the most vital points for tonifying Kidney Yang, making it essential for chronic fatigue, cold limbs, impotence, and infertility. It powerfully strengthens the lumbar spine, addressing chronic low back pain, weakness, and knee issues, especially those associated with Kidney deficiency. Its role in regulating the Governing Vessel underscores its importance in supporting overall vitality and warmth in the body, often paired with BL23 for profound Kidney Yang tonification.
DU4 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:
DU4 (Mingmen) is located on the lower back, on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the 15th vertebra (L2).
DU4 tonifies Kidney Yang, strengthens the lumbar spine, regulates Governing Vessel. Common clinical indications include low back pain, impotence, nocturnal emission, irregular menstruation, leukorrhea, diarrhea, fatigue, cold limbs.
Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Caution for spinal cord injury. Caution: ⚠ Spinal cord deep to this point: oblique/limited depth; never deep perpendicular at the midline.
DU4 is a point on the Governing Vessel Meridian (Dū Mài).