GB5 Suspended Skull

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

GB5 (Xuánlú, “Suspended Skull”) is an acupuncture point on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. It is located on the head, 0.5 cun anterior to GB6, at the junction of the middle one-third and anterior one-third of the curve connecting ST8 and GB7. It dispels wind, alleviates pain, benefits the head.

Location

On the head, 0.5 cun anterior to GB6, at the junction of the middle one-third and anterior one-third of the curve connecting ST8 and GB7.

Needling

Transverse insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: Intracranial structures.

TCM functions

Dispels wind, alleviates pain, benefits the head.

Indications

Headache, facial swelling, toothache, external canthus pain.

Clinical notes

GB5, Xuánlú, is primarily used for local pain relief in the temporal region, particularly for headaches and migraines affecting the side of the head. As a point on the Gallbladder meridian, it effectively addresses wind-heat or wind-cold patterns manifesting as unilateral head pain. It is often needled towards other local points for enhanced analgesic effect, and can be combined with GB8 for temporal headaches.

On the Gallbladder Channel channel

GB5 is one of 44 points on the Gallbladder Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is GB5 located?

GB5 (Xuánlú) is located on the head, 0.5 cun anterior to GB6, at the junction of the middle one-third and anterior one-third of the curve connecting ST8 and GB7.

What is GB5 used for?

GB5 dispels wind, alleviates pain, benefits the head. Common clinical indications include headache, facial swelling, toothache, external canthus pain.

How is GB5 needled?

Transverse insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: Intracranial structures.

Which meridian is GB5 on?

GB5 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.