KI1 Gushing Spring

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

KI1 (Yǒngquán, “Gushing Spring”) is the Jing-Well (Wood) point of the Kidney Channel Meridian. It is located on the sole of the foot, in the depression formed when the foot is in plantar flexion, approximately at the junction of the anterior one-third and posterior two-thirds of the line connecting the base of the second toe and the heel. It clears heat, revives consciousness, calms spirit, descends excess from head.

Location

On the sole of the foot, in the depression formed when the foot is in plantar flexion, approximately at the junction of the anterior one-third and posterior two-thirds of the line connecting the base of the second toe and the heel.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.3 to 0.5 cun. Oblique insertion towards the heel 0.5 to 1 cun.

TCM functions

Clears heat, revives consciousness, calms spirit, descends excess from head.

Indications

Headache, dizziness, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, epilepsy, infantile convulsions, dry throat, tongue pain, dysuria, constipation, plantar pain.

Jing-Well (Wood)Entry/Exit

Clinical notes

As the Jing-Well (Wood) point of the Kidney meridian, Yongquan is crucial for reviving consciousness, clearing heat from the head, and calming the spirit. It is a primary point for emergency situations like stroke, epilepsy, and loss of consciousness, and also effectively descends excess Yang from the head, treating headaches, dizziness, and hypertension. Its 'Gushing Spring' name alludes to its ability to draw energy downwards and restore vitality.

On the Kidney Channel channel

KI1 is one of 27 points on the Kidney Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is KI1 located?

KI1 (Yǒngquán) is located on the sole of the foot, in the depression formed when the foot is in plantar flexion, approximately at the junction of the anterior one-third and posterior two-thirds of the line connecting the base of the second toe and the heel.

What is KI1 used for?

KI1 clears heat, revives consciousness, calms spirit, descends excess from head. Common clinical indications include headache, dizziness, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, epilepsy, infantile convulsions, dry throat, tongue pain, dysuria, constipation, plantar pain.

How is KI1 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.3 to 0.5 cun. Oblique insertion towards the heel 0.5 to 1 cun.

Which meridian is KI1 on?

KI1 is a point on the Kidney Channel Meridian (Zú Shàoyīn Shènjīng).

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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.