PC3 Marsh at the Crook

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

PC3 (Quze, “Marsh at the Crook”) is the He-Sea (Water) point of the Pericardium Channel Meridian. It is located at the cubital crease, on the ulnar side of the biceps brachii tendon. It clears heat, harmonizes the stomach, stops vomiting.

Location

At the cubital crease, on the ulnar side of the biceps brachii tendon.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.8-1.2 cun. Caution: median nerve and brachial artery.

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

TCM functions

Clears heat, harmonizes the stomach, stops vomiting.

Indications

Cardiac pain, palpitations, fever, stomachache, vomiting, elbow pain.

He-Sea (Water)Five-Shu

Clinical notes

As the He-Sea (Water) point of the Pericardium meridian, PC3 is a powerful point for clearing heat, especially summerheat, from the Pericardium and blood. It is best known for its ability to treat heat-related conditions such as fever, heatstroke, and skin eruptions. It also effectively harmonizes the stomach and stops vomiting, particularly when due to heat or food stagnation, and is often bled for acute heat conditions.

On the Pericardium Channel channel

PC3 is one of 9 points on the Pericardium Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is PC3 located?

PC3 (Quze) is located at the cubital crease, on the ulnar side of the biceps brachii tendon.

What is PC3 used for?

PC3 clears heat, harmonizes the stomach, stops vomiting. Common clinical indications include cardiac pain, palpitations, fever, stomachache, vomiting, elbow pain.

How is PC3 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.8-1.2 cun. Caution: median nerve and brachial artery. Caution: ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the median nerve).

Which meridian is PC3 on?

PC3 is a point on the Pericardium Channel Meridian (Xīnbāo Jīng).

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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.