REN23 Lianquan

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

REN23 (Lianquan, “Lianquan”) is the Window of the Sky point of the Conception Vessel Meridian. It is located on the anterior midline of the neck, in the depression superior to the hyoid bone, at the root of the tongue. It benefits the tongue and throat, promotes the generation of fluids, resolves phlegm, and clears fire.

Location

On the anterior midline of the neck, in the depression superior to the hyoid bone, at the root of the tongue.

Needling

With the head tilted back, needle obliquely 0.5 to 1.0 cun towards the root of the tongue. It is also common to needle transversely towards Jinjin (EX-HN12) and Yuye (EX-HN13) on either side.

TCM functions

Benefits the tongue and throat, promotes the generation of fluids, resolves phlegm, and clears fire..

Indications

Tongue stiffness, inability to speak, tongue slackness, tongue root pain, tongue root shrinking, mouth dryness, excessive salivation, throat obstruction, mouth and tongue sores, sudden loss of voice, difficulty swallowing, cough, asthma, thirst, stomach heat causing excessive drooling, mouth ulcers..

Window of the Sky

Clinical notes

Lianquan is a primary local point for a wide range of disorders affecting the tongue and throat, from structural issues like stiffness or flaccidity to functional problems like aphasia or excessive salivation. Its connection to the Yin Wei Mai and its location at the root of the tongue make it crucial for regulating fluids in the mouth, treating both dryness and drooling. The classical texts emphasize its role in treating both excess conditions, such as phlegm-heat obstructing the throat, and deficiency patterns leading to fluid dryness or muscular weakness of the tongue.

On the Conception Vessel channel

REN23 is one of 24 points on the Conception Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is REN23 located?

REN23 (Lianquan) is located on the anterior midline of the neck, in the depression superior to the hyoid bone, at the root of the tongue.

What is REN23 used for?

REN23 benefits the tongue and throat, promotes the generation of fluids, resolves phlegm, and clears fire. Common clinical indications include tongue stiffness, inability to speak, tongue slackness, tongue root pain, tongue root shrinking, mouth dryness, excessive salivation, throat obstruction, mouth and tongue sores, sudden loss of voice, difficulty swallowing, cough, asthma, thirst, stomach heat causing excessive drooling, mouth ulcers.

How is REN23 needled?

With the head tilted back, needle obliquely 0.5 to 1.0 cun towards the root of the tongue. It is also common to needle transversely towards Jinjin (EX-HN12) and Yuye (EX-HN13) on either side.

Which meridian is REN23 on?

REN23 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.