SP20 Zhōuróng

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

SP20 (Zhōuróng, “Zhōuróng”) is an acupuncture point on the Spleen Channel Meridian. It is located on the upper chest, in a depression in the second intercostal space, 1.6 cun inferior to LU1 (Zhongfu) and 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline. It descends rebellious Lung Qi, resolves phlegm and pus from the chest, unbinds the chest, and regulates the Middle Jiao to aid digestion.

Location

On the upper chest, in a depression in the second intercostal space, 1.6 cun inferior to LU1 (Zhongfu) and 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Needling

Oblique or transverse-oblique insertion 0.5-0.8 cun, directed along the intercostal space. Avoid deep perpendicular insertion to prevent pneumothorax.

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TCM functions

Descends rebellious Lung Qi, resolves phlegm and pus from the chest, unbinds the chest, and regulates the Middle Jiao to aid digestion..

Indications

Fullness in the chest and hypochondrium, inability to bend forward or backward, cough with rebellious qi, labored breathing, coughing up thick or purulent phlegm, coughing up bloody pus, copious turbid sputum, inability to eat, desire to drink..

Clinical notes

Zhourong is a key local point for respiratory and digestive disorders manifesting in the chest. Its indications for coughing purulent phlegm make it particularly useful for lung abscesses or severe bronchitis. It also addresses the connection between the Lungs and Spleen, treating chest fullness and poor appetite simultaneously.

On the Spleen Channel channel

SP20 is one of 21 points on the Spleen Channel Meridian. Nearby points:

SP13SP14SP15SP16SP17SP18SP19SP21

Frequently asked questions

Where is SP20 located?

SP20 (Zhōuróng) is located on the upper chest, in a depression in the second intercostal space, 1.6 cun inferior to LU1 (Zhongfu) and 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

What is SP20 used for?

SP20 descends rebellious Lung Qi, resolves phlegm and pus from the chest, unbinds the chest, and regulates the Middle Jiao to aid digestion. Common clinical indications include fullness in the chest and hypochondrium, inability to bend forward or backward, cough with rebellious qi, labored breathing, coughing up thick or purulent phlegm, coughing up bloody pus, copious turbid sputum, inability to eat, desire to drink.

How is SP20 needled?

Oblique or transverse-oblique insertion 0.5-0.8 cun, directed along the intercostal space. Avoid deep perpendicular insertion to prevent pneumothorax. Caution: Overlies the thoracic cavity — risk of PNEUMOTHORAX. Needle obliquely or transversely, never deeply or perpendicularly toward the chest wall. The Zhen Jiu Da Cheng lists Zhourong (周榮) in its 'Song of Prohibited Moxibustion Points.' This contradicts all other sources, which explicitly recommend moxibustion. This is likely a textual error in that specific classic.

Which meridian is SP20 on?

SP20 is a point on the Spleen Channel Meridian (Zú Tài Yīn Pí 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.