SI8 Xiǎohǎi

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

SI8 (Xiǎohǎi, “Xiǎohǎi”) is the He-Sea Point point of the Small Intestine Channel Meridian. It is located on the posteromedial aspect of the elbow, in the depression between the olecranon of the ulna and the medial epicondyle of the humerus. The point is located with the elbow flexed. It clears heat and disperses wind, calms the spirit, transforms phlegm, activates the channel and alleviates pain.

Location

On the posteromedial aspect of the elbow, in the depression between the olecranon of the ulna and the medial epicondyle of the humerus. The point is located with the elbow flexed.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun, or oblique insertion proximally or distally along the ulnar groove 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: Proximity to the ulnar nerve can cause an electric sensation down the arm.

TCM functions

Clears heat and disperses wind, calms the spirit, transforms phlegm, activates the channel and alleviates pain..

Indications

Neck pain, shoulder pain as if dislocated, arm pain as if broken, elbow and arm pain and swelling, pain along the outer posterior aspect of the arm, cold and heat sensations, toothache, swollen gums, wind dizziness, epilepsy, seizures with convulsions, manic running, madness, small abdomen pain, swollen cheeks, swollen jaw making it difficult to turn the head, ear deafness, yellow eyes, carbuncles and sores with chills, wind malaria..

He-Sea PointEarth Point

Clinical notes

As the He-Sea and Earth point of the Small Intestine channel, Xiaohai is a primary point for pain and dysfunction along the entire channel, from elbow and shoulder pain to neck stiffness and jaw issues. Its ability to clear heat and calm the spirit makes it effective for both local inflammation, like swollen gums, and systemic psycho-emotional disorders such as epilepsy and mania. The point's location requires careful needling to avoid the ulnar nerve, which lies in the same groove.

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 on the posteromedial aspect of the elbow, in the depression between the olecranon of the ulna and the medial epicondyle of the humerus. The point is located with the elbow flexed.

What is SI8 used for?

SI8 clears heat and disperses wind, calms the spirit, transforms phlegm, activates the channel and alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include neck pain, shoulder pain as if dislocated, arm pain as if broken, elbow and arm pain and swelling, pain along the outer posterior aspect of the arm, cold and heat sensations, toothache, swollen gums, wind dizziness, epilepsy, seizures with convulsions, manic running, madness, small abdomen pain, swollen cheeks, swollen jaw making it difficult to turn the head, ear deafness, yellow eyes, carbuncles and sores with chills, wind malaria.

How is SI8 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.5 cun, or oblique insertion proximally or distally along the ulnar groove 0.5-1.0 cun. Caution: Proximity to the ulnar nerve can cause an electric sensation down the arm.

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.