REN4 Gate of Origin

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

REN4 (Guanyuan, “Gate of Origin”) is the Front-Mu of Small Intestine point of the Conception Vessel Meridian. It is located on the anterior midline, 3 cun inferior to the umbilicus, superior to the pubic symphysis. It tonifies yuan qi, strengthens the kidneys, and regulates menstruation.

Location

On the anterior midline, 3 cun inferior to the umbilicus, superior to the pubic symphysis.

Needling

Insert perpendicularly 0.8-1.2 cun; caution for bladder if full.

⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk).
⚠ Have the patient void first — do not needle a full bladder.

TCM functions

Tonifies yuan qi, strengthens the kidneys, and regulates menstruation.

Indications

Enuresis, seminal emission, impotence, hernia, irregular menstruation, morbid leukorrhea, dysmenorrhea, prolapse of uterus, postpartum hemorrhage, abdominal pain, diarrhea, collapse.

Front-Mu of Small IntestineMeeting point of Ren & SP, LR, KD

Clinical notes

Ren 4 is one of the most important points for tonifying Yuan Qi and strengthening the Kidneys, making it a cornerstone for chronic debilitating conditions and deficiency syndromes. As the Front-Mu point of the Small Intestine and a meeting point with the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians, it profoundly impacts the lower jiao, regulating menstruation, treating infertility, and addressing impotence. It is widely used for collapse of yang and general weakness, often moxaed directly.

On the Conception Vessel channel

REN4 is one of 24 points on the Conception Vessel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is REN4 located?

REN4 (Guanyuan) is located on the anterior midline, 3 cun inferior to the umbilicus, superior to the pubic symphysis.

What is REN4 used for?

REN4 tonifies yuan qi, strengthens the kidneys, and regulates menstruation. Common clinical indications include enuresis, seminal emission, impotence, hernia, irregular menstruation, morbid leukorrhea, dysmenorrhea, prolapse of uterus, postpartum hemorrhage, abdominal pain, diarrhea, collapse.

How is REN4 needled?

Insert perpendicularly 0.8-1.2 cun; caution for bladder if full. Caution: ⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk). ⚠ Have the patient void first — do not needle a full bladder.

Which meridian is REN4 on?

REN4 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.