SI8 Small Sea

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

SI8 (Xiǎohǎi, “Small Sea”) is the He-Sea (Earth) point of the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. It is located when the elbow is flexed, this point is located in the depression between the olecranon of the ulna and the medial epicondyle of the humerus. It clears heat, dissipates swelling, calms the spirit.

Location

When the elbow is flexed, this point is located in the depression between the olecranon of the ulna and the medial epicondyle of the humerus.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Avoid the ulnar nerve.

TCM functions

Clears heat, dissipates swelling, calms the spirit.

Indications

Elbow pain, headache, neck stiffness, epilepsy, mental disorders.

He-Sea (Earth)Five-Shu

Clinical notes

As the He-Sea and Earth point of the Small Intestine meridian, SI8 is crucial for clearing heat from the Small Intestine and regulating its functions. It is best known for treating elbow pain, especially medial epicondylitis, and for dissipating swelling and pain in the neck, shoulder, and arm. It also has a calming effect on the spirit, addressing conditions like epilepsy and mania. It is empirically used for headaches and toothaches along the Small Intestine meridian.

On the Small Intestine Channel channel

SI8 is one of 19 points on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is SI8 located?

SI8 (Xiǎohǎi) is located when the elbow is flexed, this point is located in the depression between the olecranon of the ulna and the medial epicondyle of the humerus.

What is SI8 used for?

SI8 clears heat, dissipates swelling, calms the spirit. Common clinical indications include elbow pain, headache, neck stiffness, epilepsy, mental disorders.

How is SI8 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Avoid the ulnar nerve.

Which meridian is SI8 on?

SI8 is a point on the Small Intestine Channel Meridian (Shǒu Tài Yáng Xiǎo Cháng Jīng).

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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.