HT3 Lesser Sea

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

HT3 (Shaohai, “Lesser Sea”) is the He-Sea (Water) point of the Heart Channel of Hand-Shaoyin Meridian. It is located when the elbow is flexed, this point is located at the medial end of the transverse cubital crease, anterior to the medial epicondyle of the humerus. It calms the spirit, clears heat, and activates the meridian.

Location

When the elbow is flexed, this point is located at the medial end of the transverse cubital crease, anterior to the medial epicondyle of the humerus.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Avoid the ulnar nerve.

⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the ulnar nerve).

TCM functions

Calms the spirit, clears heat, and activates the meridian.

Indications

Cardiac pain, elbow pain, numbness of the arm, tremors, mental disorders.

He-Sea (Water)Five-Shu

Clinical notes

As a He-Sea (Water) point, HT3 is significant for treating rebellious qi and conditions affecting the elbow and arm, as well as internal disorders of the Heart. It excels at calming the spirit, making it a key point for anxiety, insomnia, and emotional disturbances, especially when associated with Heart heat. It is also highly effective for clearing heat from the Heart meridian, addressing symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, and tremors. Clinically, it's often paired with HT7 for comprehensive spirit calming.

On the Heart Channel of Hand-Shaoyin channel

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

Frequently asked questions

Where is HT3 located?

HT3 (Shaohai) is located when the elbow is flexed, this point is located at the medial end of the transverse cubital crease, anterior to the medial epicondyle of the humerus.

What is HT3 used for?

HT3 calms the spirit, clears heat, and activates the meridian. Common clinical indications include cardiac pain, elbow pain, numbness of the arm, tremors, mental disorders.

How is HT3 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1.0 cun. Avoid the ulnar nerve. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the ulnar nerve).

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.