REN21 Jade Pivot

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

REN21 (Xuanji, “Jade Pivot”) is an acupuncture point on the Conception Vessel Meridian. REN21 is located on the anterior midline of the chest, at the center of the manubrium, 1 cun inferior to REN22. It descends lung qi and relieves cough.

Location

REN21 is located on the anterior midline of the chest, at the center of the manubrium, 1 cun inferior to REN22.

Needling

Oblique insertion inferiorly 0.3-0.5 cun. Caution for pneumothorax.

⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over the chest wall.

TCM functions

Descends lung qi and relieves cough.

Indications

Cough, asthma, chest pain, fullness in the chest and diaphragm.

Clinical notes

REN21 is primarily used to descend Lung Qi and relieve cough, especially when accompanied by chest fullness or a feeling of obstruction. It is effective for both acute and chronic cough, asthma, and bronchitis, helping to clear the airways and ease breathing. Its action on the chest also makes it useful for alleviating pain and discomfort in the sternal region. It is often combined with LU7 for cough or REN17 for chest oppression.

On the Conception Vessel channel

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

Frequently asked questions

Where is REN21 located?

REN21 is located on the anterior midline of the chest, at the center of the manubrium, 1 cun inferior to REN22.

What is REN21 used for?

REN21 descends lung qi and relieves cough. Common clinical indications include cough, asthma, chest pain, fullness in the chest and diaphragm.

How is REN21 needled?

Oblique insertion inferiorly 0.3-0.5 cun. Caution for pneumothorax. Caution: ⚠ Pneumothorax risk: oblique/shallow only, never deep perpendicular over 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.