DU6 Jizhong

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

DU6 (Jizhong, “Jizhong”) is an acupuncture point on the Governing Vessel Meridian. It is located on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11). It fortifies the Spleen and Stomach, regulates the intestines, strengthens the spine.

Location

On the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11).

Needling

Slightly superior oblique insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep insertion toward the spinal canal is strictly forbidden.

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TCM functions

Fortifies the Spleen and Stomach, regulates the intestines, strengthens the spine..

Indications

Abdominal fullness, inability to eat, jaundice, infantile malnutrition with prolapsed rectum, spinal pain, spinal stiffness, dysentery, hemorrhoids with bleeding, epilepsy, clonic spasm, eye pain, pain in the spinal channel, lassitude, shortness of breath, diarrhea, undigested food in stool..

Clinical notes

Jizhong is a key point for digestive disorders stemming from Spleen deficiency, particularly abdominal fullness, poor appetite, and chronic diarrhea. Its location opposite the Spleen makes it a direct point for tonifying the middle jiao from the back. While historically used for a range of conditions including epilepsy and jaundice, its primary modern application is for digestive and intestinal issues. The strong classical contraindication against moxibustion is noteworthy, though some later texts do recommend it for specific conditions like hemorrhoids.

On the Governing Vessel channel

DU6 is one of 28 points on the Governing Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

DU2DU3DU4DU5DU7DU8DU9DU10

Frequently asked questions

Where is DU6 located?

DU6 (Jizhong) is located on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the eleventh thoracic vertebra (T11).

What is DU6 used for?

DU6 fortifies the Spleen and Stomach, regulates the intestines, strengthens the spine. Common clinical indications include abdominal fullness, inability to eat, jaundice, infantile malnutrition with prolapsed rectum, spinal pain, spinal stiffness, dysentery, hemorrhoids with bleeding, epilepsy, clonic spasm, eye pain, pain in the spinal channel, lassitude, shortness of breath, diarrhea, undigested food in stool.

How is DU6 needled?

Slightly superior oblique insertion, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep insertion toward the spinal canal is strictly forbidden. Caution: Multiple classics, including the 'Jia Yi Jing', 'Zhen Jiu Ju Ying', and 'Qian Jin Yao Fang', state that moxibustion is forbidden as it can cause a stooped back or flaccidity. The 'Zhen Jiu Ju Ying' quotes the 'Su Wen' warning that needling into the spinal marrow can cause a stooped back, advising caution during needling. Deep insertion risks puncturing the spinal cord.

Which meridian is DU6 on?

DU6 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.