GB19 Brain Hollow

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

GB19 (Naokong, “Brain Hollow”) is the Meeting point of GB, UB, & Yangwei point of the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. It is located on the head, 1.5 cun posterior to GB18 (Chengling), in a depression on the superior aspect of the external occipital protuberance. This is 2.25 cun lateral to the posterior midline. It expels wind, calms the spirit, clears the head and brightens the eyes, alleviates pain.

Location

On the head, 1.5 cun posterior to GB18 (Chengling), in a depression on the superior aspect of the external occipital protuberance. This is 2.25 cun lateral to the posterior midline.

Needling

Subcutaneous insertion 0.3-0.5 cun.

TCM functions

Expels wind, calms the spirit, clears the head and brightens the eyes, alleviates pain..

Indications

Headache, dizziness, wind-dizziness, eye pain, dimness of vision, neck stiffness, epilepsy, heart palpitations, mental confusion, nasal pain, body heat with jaw tension, emaciation from epilepsy, head wind..

Meeting point of GB, UB, & Yangwei

Clinical notes

Naokong is a significant point for treating occipital headaches, dizziness, and neck stiffness, particularly when associated with wind. Its name, 'Brain Hollow,' and its classical indications for epilepsy, palpitations, and mental confusion highlight its capacity to calm the spirit and clear the mind. The famous story of Hua Tuo successfully treating Cao Cao's severe headaches and dizziness with this point underscores its historical importance for acute and chronic head disorders.

On the Gallbladder Channel channel

GB19 is one of 44 points on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is GB19 located?

GB19 (Naokong) is located on the head, 1.5 cun posterior to GB18 (Chengling), in a depression on the superior aspect of the external occipital protuberance. This is 2.25 cun lateral to the posterior midline.

What is GB19 used for?

GB19 expels wind, calms the spirit, clears the head and brightens the eyes, alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include headache, dizziness, wind-dizziness, eye pain, dimness of vision, neck stiffness, epilepsy, heart palpitations, mental confusion, nasal pain, body heat with jaw tension, emaciation from epilepsy, head wind.

How is GB19 needled?

Subcutaneous insertion 0.3-0.5 cun.

Which meridian is GB19 on?

GB19 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.