PC4 Cleft Gate

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

PC4 (Ximen, “Cleft Gate”) is the Xi-cleft point of the Pericardium Channel Meridian. It is located on the palmar aspect of the forearm, 5 cun proximal to the transverse wrist crease, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis. It invigorates blood, stops bleeding, calms the spirit.

Location

On the palmar aspect of the forearm, 5 cun proximal to the transverse wrist crease, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.8-1.2 cun. No major safety concerns.

TCM functions

Invigorates blood, stops bleeding, calms the spirit.

Indications

Cardiac pain, palpitations, epistaxis, hemoptysis, anxiety.

Xi-cleft

Clinical notes

PC4 is the Xi-cleft point of the Pericardium meridian, making it highly effective for treating acute conditions and pain along the channel, as well as disorders of blood. It is best known for its ability to invigorate blood and stop bleeding, particularly for acute chest pain, angina, and various types of hemorrhage, including epistaxis and hematemesis. It also has a significant calming effect on the spirit, useful for anxiety and palpitations.

On the Pericardium Channel channel

PC4 is one of 9 points on the Pericardium Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is PC4 located?

PC4 (Ximen) is located on the palmar aspect of the forearm, 5 cun proximal to the transverse wrist crease, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis.

What is PC4 used for?

PC4 invigorates blood, stops bleeding, calms the spirit. Common clinical indications include cardiac pain, palpitations, epistaxis, hemoptysis, anxiety.

How is PC4 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.8-1.2 cun. No major safety concerns.

Which meridian is PC4 on?

PC4 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.