GB18 Receiving the Spirit

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

GB18 (Chengling, “Receiving the Spirit”) is an acupuncture point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. It is located on the head, 4 cun directly superior to the anterior hairline and 2.25 cun lateral to the midline, or 1.5 cun posterior to GB17 (Zhengying). It expels wind, alleviates pain, benefits the nose and clears the head.

Location

On the head, 4 cun directly superior to the anterior hairline and 2.25 cun lateral to the midline, or 1.5 cun posterior to GB17 (Zhengying).

Needling

Transverse (subcutaneous) insertion, 0.5 to 1.5 cun.

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TCM functions

Expels wind, alleviates pain, benefits the nose and clears the head..

Indications

Headache, brain wind, aversion to wind and cold, nasal congestion, nosebleed, difficult breathing, asthma..

Clinical notes

Chengling is a key local point for treating wind-related disorders affecting the head, particularly headaches accompanied by chills and aversion to cold. It is also effective for respiratory and nasal issues, such as congestion, nosebleeds, and labored breathing, by clearing obstruction from the upper orifices.

On the Gallbladder Channel channel

GB18 is one of 44 points on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

GB14GB15GB16GB17GB19GB20GB21GB22

Frequently asked questions

Where is GB18 located?

GB18 (Chengling) is located on the head, 4 cun directly superior to the anterior hairline and 2.25 cun lateral to the midline, or 1.5 cun posterior to GB17 (Zhengying).

What is GB18 used for?

GB18 expels wind, alleviates pain, benefits the nose and clears the head. Common clinical indications include headache, brain wind, aversion to wind and cold, nasal congestion, nosebleed, difficult breathing, asthma.

How is GB18 needled?

Transverse (subcutaneous) insertion, 0.5 to 1.5 cun. Caution: The Great Compendium (Zhen Jiu Da Cheng) lists Chengling in its 'Forbidden Needle Points Song', but does not specify the reason. Other primary sources permit needling.

Which meridian is GB18 on?

GB18 is a point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian (Zú Shàoyáng Dǎnjīng).

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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.