REN18 Jade Hall

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

REN18 (Yutang, “Jade Hall”) is an acupuncture point on the Conception Vessel Meridian. It is located on the anterior midline of the chest, in a depression on the sternum at the level of the 3rd intercostal space, 1.6 cun inferior to REN19 (Zigong). It unbinds the chest, descends rebellious Qi, calms the spirit, and alleviates pain.

Location

On the anterior midline of the chest, in a depression on the sternum at the level of the 3rd intercostal space, 1.6 cun inferior to REN19 (Zigong).

Needling

Transverse-oblique (subcutaneous) insertion, directed superiorly or inferiorly, 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep perpendicular insertion is contraindicated due to the risk of puncturing the heart.

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TCM functions

Unbinds the chest, descends rebellious Qi, calms the spirit, and alleviates pain..

Indications

Chest fullness with inability to breathe, wheezing, pain in the chest and sternum, vomiting of cold phlegm, upsurging qi with vexation of the heart, cough with reversal of qi, bone pain, shortness of breath, vexation and restlessness, vomiting..

Clinical notes

Yutang is a key local point for disorders of the chest, particularly when there is a sense of fullness, oppression, and pain. It is effective for calming rebellious Lung and Stomach Qi, making it useful for conditions like asthma, wheezing, cough, and vomiting, especially when accompanied by phlegm. Its ability to address 'heart vexation' also points to its role in soothing the spirit when it is disturbed by physical congestion in the chest.

On the Conception Vessel channel

REN18 is one of 24 points on the Conception Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

REN14REN15REN16REN17REN19REN20REN21REN22

Frequently asked questions

Where is REN18 located?

REN18 (Yutang) is located on the anterior midline of the chest, in a depression on the sternum at the level of the 3rd intercostal space, 1.6 cun inferior to REN19 (Zigong).

What is REN18 used for?

REN18 unbinds the chest, descends rebellious Qi, calms the spirit, and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include chest fullness with inability to breathe, wheezing, pain in the chest and sternum, vomiting of cold phlegm, upsurging qi with vexation of the heart, cough with reversal of qi, bone pain, shortness of breath, vexation and restlessness, vomiting.

How is REN18 needled?

Transverse-oblique (subcutaneous) insertion, directed superiorly or inferiorly, 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep perpendicular insertion is contraindicated due to the risk of puncturing the heart. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall.

Which meridian is REN18 on?

REN18 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.