KI6 Shining Sea

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

KI6 (Zhaohai, “Shining Sea”) is the Eight Confluent Point of the Yin Qiao Mai point of the Kidney Channel Meridian. It is located on the medial aspect of the foot, in a depression directly inferior to the tip of the medial malleolus. It nourishes Kidney Yin, clears deficiency heat, calms the Spirit, benefits the throat, regulates the Yin Qiao Mai, and regulates menstruation.

Location

On the medial aspect of the foot, in a depression directly inferior to the tip of the medial malleolus.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun.

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TCM functions

Nourishes Kidney Yin, clears deficiency heat, calms the Spirit, benefits the throat, regulates the Yin Qiao Mai, and regulates menstruation..

Indications

Amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, uterine prolapse, genital itching, genital discharge, sudden genital jumping or twitching, difficult urination, urinary retention, constipation, abdominal pain, epilepsy, nocturnal epilepsy, fright, sadness, unhappiness, feeling as if falling, insomnia, somnolence, blurred vision, vision as if seeing stars, red and painful eyes starting from the inner canthus, throat obstruction, dry throat, lockjaw, infantile umbilical wind, limb paralysis, back arching with spasms (opisthotonos), foot weakness, difficulty walking, coldness and heat in the feet, deficiency-type convulsions, night sweats, thirst, lassitude of the four limbs, dark and dusty complexion..

Eight Confluent Point of the Yin Qiao Mai

Clinical notes

As the master point of the Yin Motility Vessel (Yin Qiao Mai), Zhaohai is a primary point for nourishing Yin and clearing deficiency heat, making it essential for treating night sweats, chronic dry throat, and insomnia. Its strong connection to the throat, genitals, and mind allows it to address a wide range of issues from gynecological disorders and urinary problems to epilepsy and anxiety. The classical emphasis on its role in eye disorders and sleep regulation highlights its function in governing the opening and closing of the eyes via the Qiao vessels.

On the Kidney Channel channel

KI6 is one of 27 points on the Kidney Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is KI6 located?

KI6 (Zhaohai) is located on the medial aspect of the foot, in a depression directly inferior to the tip of the medial malleolus.

What is KI6 used for?

KI6 nourishes Kidney Yin, clears deficiency heat, calms the Spirit, benefits the throat, regulates the Yin Qiao Mai, and regulates menstruation. Common clinical indications include amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, uterine prolapse, genital itching, genital discharge, sudden genital jumping or twitching, difficult urination, urinary retention, constipation, abdominal pain, epilepsy, nocturnal epilepsy, fright, sadness, unhappiness, feeling as if falling, insomnia, somnolence, blurred vision, vision as if seeing stars, red and painful eyes starting from the inner canthus, throat obstruction, dry throat, lockjaw, infantile umbilical wind, limb paralysis, back arching with spasms (opisthotonos), foot weakness, difficulty walking, coldness and heat in the feet, deficiency-type convulsions, night sweats, thirst, lassitude of the four limbs, dark and dusty complexion.

How is KI6 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Caution: The Zi Sheng Jing forbids moxibustion at this point, citing a fatal case. This is a significant classical warning.

Which meridian is KI6 on?

KI6 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.