REN21 Xuanji

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

REN21 (Xuanji, “Xuanji”) is an acupuncture point on the Conception Vessel Meridian. It is located on the anterior midline of the chest, in a depression on the manubrium of the sternum, 1 cun inferior to REN22 (Tiantu). It descends Lung Qi, unbinds the chest, and alleviates cough and wheezing.

Location

On the anterior midline of the chest, in a depression on the manubrium of the sternum, 1 cun inferior to REN22 (Tiantu).

Needling

Transverse-oblique insertion, usually inferiorly, 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of puncturing the manubrium and underlying structures.

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TCM functions

Descends Lung Qi, unbinds the chest, and alleviates cough and wheezing..

Indications

chest and rib fullness and pain, cough with rebellious Qi, wheezing and inability to speak, throat blockage, throat painful obstruction, difficulty swallowing food and water, accumulation in the stomach, chest pain.

Clinical notes

Xuanji is a local point on the upper sternum primarily used for respiratory disorders. It is effective for treating cough, wheezing, and a sensation of fullness or pain in the chest by promoting the descending function of the Lung. Its location makes it particularly useful for conditions where Qi is obstructed in the upper chest and throat, leading to difficulty breathing or speaking.

On the Conception Vessel channel

REN21 is one of 24 points on the Conception Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

REN16REN17REN18REN19REN20REN22REN23REN24

Frequently asked questions

Where is REN21 located?

REN21 (Xuanji) is located on the anterior midline of the chest, in a depression on the manubrium of the sternum, 1 cun inferior to REN22 (Tiantu).

What is REN21 used for?

REN21 descends Lung Qi, unbinds the chest, and alleviates cough and wheezing. Common clinical indications include chest and rib fullness and pain, cough with rebellious Qi, wheezing and inability to speak, throat blockage, throat painful obstruction, difficulty swallowing food and water, accumulation in the stomach, chest pain.

How is REN21 needled?

Transverse-oblique insertion, usually inferiorly, 0.3-0.5 cun. Deep perpendicular insertion carries a risk of puncturing the manubrium and underlying structures. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall.

Which meridian is REN21 on?

REN21 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.