REN10 Lower Epigastrium

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

REN10 (Xiawan, “Lower Epigastrium”) is an acupuncture point on the Conception Vessel Meridian. It is located on the anterior midline of the abdomen, 2 cun superior to the umbilicus and 6 cun inferior to the sternocostal angle. It harmonizes the Stomach and intestines, descends rebellious Qi, disperses food stagnation and accumulation, relieves abdominal pain.

Location

On the anterior midline of the abdomen, 2 cun superior to the umbilicus and 6 cun inferior to the sternocostal angle.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 1.5 cun. Deep insertion carries a risk of penetrating the peritoneal cavity.

TCM functions

Harmonizes the Stomach and intestines, descends rebellious Qi, disperses food stagnation and accumulation, relieves abdominal pain..

Indications

Abdominal pain, abdominal hardness, abdominal distention, food not transforming, lack of appetite, emaciation, borborygmus, undigested food in stool, red urine, hard masses in the abdomen , heart pain, vomiting, stomach cold, rebellious Qi moving upwards from the navel, indigestion, fullness of the stomach and abdomen, heart-mind vexation and fullness..

Clinical notes

Xiawan is a key point for disorders of the lower stomach and small intestine, located anatomically near the pylorus. The classics emphasize its role in treating food stagnation, where food fails to move from the stomach into the intestines, leading to pain, fullness, and palpable masses. It is particularly effective for conditions of cold and accumulation in the middle jiao, helping to move stagnant food and qi downwards.

On the Conception Vessel channel

REN10 is one of 24 points on the Conception Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is REN10 located?

REN10 (Xiawan) is located on the anterior midline of the abdomen, 2 cun superior to the umbilicus and 6 cun inferior to the sternocostal angle.

What is REN10 used for?

REN10 harmonizes the Stomach and intestines, descends rebellious Qi, disperses food stagnation and accumulation, relieves abdominal pain. Common clinical indications include abdominal pain, abdominal hardness, abdominal distention, food not transforming, lack of appetite, emaciation, borborygmus, undigested food in stool, red urine, hard masses in the abdomen , heart pain, vomiting, stomach cold, rebellious Qi moving upwards from the navel, indigestion, fullness of the stomach and abdomen, heart-mind vexation and fullness.

How is REN10 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 1.0 to 1.5 cun. Deep insertion carries a risk of penetrating the peritoneal cavity.

Which meridian is REN10 on?

REN10 is a point on the Conception Vessel Meridian (Rèn Mài).

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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.