GB22 Yuanye means 'Abyss of Fluid'

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

GB22 (Yuanye, “Yuanye means 'Abyss of Fluid'”) is an acupuncture point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. It is located on the lateral side of the chest, on the mid-axillary line, 3 cun inferior to the apex of the axilla, in a depression between the ribs. The point is located with the arm raised. It expands the chest, unbinds the hypochondrium, and transforms phlegm.

Location

On the lateral side of the chest, on the mid-axillary line, 3 cun inferior to the apex of the axilla, in a depression between the ribs. The point is located with the arm raised.

Needling

Oblique or transverse-oblique insertion along the intercostal space, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Expands the chest, unbinds the hypochondrium, and transforms phlegm..

Indications

Chest and hypochondriac fullness, pain in the chest and back making it difficult to turn over or lie down, arm and shoulder pain, swelling and ulceration of the axilla (scrofula), cold and heat sensations..

Clinical notes

Yuanye is a local point for conditions affecting the lateral chest and axilla, such as intercostal neuralgia, pleurisy, and axillary lymphadenitis. Its ability to address fullness and pain in the chest and hypochondrium makes it useful for disorders of constrained Liver and Gallbladder Qi. The classical prohibition against moxibustion is a significant clinical note to observe.

On the Gallbladder Channel channel

GB22 is one of 44 points on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

GB18GB19GB20GB21GB23GB24GB25GB26

Frequently asked questions

Where is GB22 located?

GB22 (Yuanye) is located on the lateral side of the chest, on the mid-axillary line, 3 cun inferior to the apex of the axilla, in a depression between the ribs. The point is located with the arm raised.

What is GB22 used for?

GB22 expands the chest, unbinds the hypochondrium, and transforms phlegm. Common clinical indications include chest and hypochondriac fullness, pain in the chest and back making it difficult to turn over or lie down, arm and shoulder pain, swelling and ulceration of the axilla (scrofula), cold and heat sensations.

How is GB22 needled?

Oblique or transverse-oblique insertion along the intercostal space, 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall. Classical texts strongly forbid moxibustion, warning that it can cause severe sores and can be fatal if they ulcerate internally.

Which meridian is GB22 on?

GB22 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.