REN11 Jianli means 'Establish the Interior'

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

REN11 (Jianli, “Jianli means 'Establish the Interior'”) is an acupuncture point on the Conception Vessel Meridian. It is located on the anterior midline of the abdomen, 3 cun superior to the umbilicus and 1 cun inferior to Zhongwan (REN12). It harmonizes the stomach, descends rebellious qi, resolves food stagnation, and alleviates edema.

Location

On the anterior midline of the abdomen, 3 cun superior to the umbilicus and 1 cun inferior to Zhongwan (REN12).

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.8 to 1.5 cun. Caution is advised in thin patients to avoid penetrating the peritoneal cavity.

TCM functions

Harmonizes the stomach, descends rebellious qi, resolves food stagnation, and alleviates edema..

Indications

Abdominal distension, body swelling, heart pain, upwardly surging qi, intestinal pain, vomiting, upward counterflow qi, poor appetite, heart pain with phlegm, heart palpitations from a deficient stomach great luo vessel, cholera with intestinal rumbling, abdominal fullness, heart pain below the xiphoid.

Clinical notes

Jianli is a key point for addressing middle jiao dysfunction, situated between the stomach's mu-point (Zhongwan) and the point for separating fluids (Shuifen). Its classical indications consistently point to its ability to treat digestive disturbances like bloating, vomiting, and poor appetite. It is also noted for treating edema and certain types of epigastric pain, particularly when phlegm is a contributing factor.

On the Conception Vessel channel

REN11 is one of 24 points on the Conception Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is REN11 located?

REN11 (Jianli) is located on the anterior midline of the abdomen, 3 cun superior to the umbilicus and 1 cun inferior to Zhongwan (REN12).

What is REN11 used for?

REN11 harmonizes the stomach, descends rebellious qi, resolves food stagnation, and alleviates edema. Common clinical indications include abdominal distension, body swelling, heart pain, upwardly surging qi, intestinal pain, vomiting, upward counterflow qi, poor appetite, heart pain with phlegm, heart palpitations from a deficient stomach great luo vessel, cholera with intestinal rumbling, abdominal fullness, heart pain below the xiphoid.

How is REN11 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.8 to 1.5 cun. Caution is advised in thin patients to avoid penetrating the peritoneal cavity.

Which meridian is REN11 on?

REN11 is a point on the Conception Vessel Meridian (Rèn Mài).

Interactive body mapConditions & evidenceFind an acupuncturistTCM glossary
⚠️ 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.