PC8 Palace of Toil

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

PC8 (Laogong, “Palace of Toil”) is the Ying-Spring point of the Pericardium Channel Meridian. PC8 is located on the palm, between the second and third metacarpal bones, at the apex of the thenar crease when the fist is clenched. It clears heat from the Pericardium, revives consciousness, harmonizes the stomach.

Location

PC8 is located on the palm, between the second and third metacarpal bones, at the apex of the thenar crease when the fist is clenched.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Avoid major blood vessels.

TCM functions

Clears heat from the Pericardium, revives consciousness, harmonizes the stomach.

Indications

Cardiac pain, epistaxis, halitosis, mental disorders, heatstroke, hand pain.

Ying-SpringShu-StreamFive-Shu

Clinical notes

As a Ying-Spring and Shu-Stream point, PC8 is renowned for its ability to clear heat from the Pericardium and Heart, making it a primary point for febrile diseases with high fever, delirium, and loss of consciousness. It is also highly effective for calming the spirit in cases of anxiety, agitation, and insomnia due to heat. Clinically, it's a key point for acute cardiac pain and heat-related stomach disorders like nausea and vomiting. A classic empirical use is for clearing summer-heat, often paired with DU26 for reviving consciousness.

On the Pericardium Channel channel

PC8 is one of 9 points on the Pericardium Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is PC8 located?

PC8 is located on the palm, between the second and third metacarpal bones, at the apex of the thenar crease when the fist is clenched.

What is PC8 used for?

PC8 clears heat from the Pericardium, revives consciousness, harmonizes the stomach. Common clinical indications include cardiac pain, epistaxis, halitosis, mental disorders, heatstroke, hand pain.

How is PC8 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Avoid major blood vessels.

Which meridian is PC8 on?

PC8 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.