HT3 Lesser Sea

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

HT3 (Shaohai, “Lesser Sea”) is the He-Sea Point point of the Heart Channel of Hand-Shaoyin Meridian. It is located on the medial aspect of the elbow, in the depression between the medial end of the transverse cubital crease and the medial epicondyle of the humerus, when the elbow is flexed. It calms the spirit, transforms phlegm, clears heat, activates the channel and alleviates pain.

Location

On the medial aspect of the elbow, in the depression between the medial end of the transverse cubital crease and the medial epicondyle of the humerus, when the elbow is flexed.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5 to 1.0 cun.

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TCM functions

Calms the spirit, transforms phlegm, clears heat, activates the channel and alleviates pain..

Indications

Axillary scrofula, arm pain with inability to flex and extend, wind-bi pain, lingering disease, brain wind, cold teeth, headache, manic-depressive disorder, epilepsy, frantic speech, hand tremor, forgetfulness, dizziness, vomiting of foamy saliva, neck rigidity preventing turning the head, elbow contracture, pain in the axilla and hypochondrium, inability to raise the four limbs, belching, heart pain, chills and fever, toothache due to caries, malaria with chills in the back, neck pain radiating to the elbow and axilla, waist pain radiating to the lower abdomen..

He-Sea PointWater Point

Clinical notes

As the He-Sea point of the Heart channel, Shaohai is a primary point for clearing Heart fire and phlegm-fire that obstruct the mind, making it effective for mania, epilepsy, and severe anxiety. It also has a strong local action on the elbow and arm, treating pain, contracture, and numbness along the channel pathway. Its ability to address scrofula, mentioned in multiple classics, highlights its function in transforming phlegm and resolving nodules.

On the Heart Channel of Hand-Shaoyin channel

HT3 is one of 9 points on the Heart Channel of Hand-Shaoyin Meridian. Nearby points:

HT1HT2HT4HT5HT6HT7HT8HT9

Frequently asked questions

Where is HT3 located?

HT3 (Shaohai) is located on the medial aspect of the elbow, in the depression between the medial end of the transverse cubital crease and the medial epicondyle of the humerus, when the elbow is flexed.

What is HT3 used for?

HT3 calms the spirit, transforms phlegm, clears heat, activates the channel and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include axillary scrofula, arm pain with inability to flex and extend, wind-bi pain, lingering disease, brain wind, cold teeth, headache, manic-depressive disorder, epilepsy, frantic speech, hand tremor, forgetfulness, dizziness, vomiting of foamy saliva, neck rigidity preventing turning the head, elbow contracture, pain in the axilla and hypochondrium, inability to raise the four limbs, belching, heart pain, chills and fever, toothache due to caries, malaria with chills in the back, neck pain radiating to the elbow and axilla, waist pain radiating to the lower abdomen.

How is HT3 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5 to 1.0 cun. Caution: Classical texts note a significant disagreement on the appropriateness of moxibustion at this point, with several sources advising against it. The ulnar nerve is located medially and deep to this point, so care must be taken during needling to avoid injury.

Which meridian is HT3 on?

HT3 is a point on the Heart Channel of Hand-Shaoyin Meridian (Shǒu Shàoyīn Xīnjīng).

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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.