ST1 Container of Tears

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

ST1 (Chengqi, “Container of Tears”) is the Meeting point of ST, Ren, Yang Qiao point of the Stomach Meridian. ST1 is located directly below the pupil when the eyes are looking straight forward, between the eyeball and the infraorbital ridge. It is in the depression at the center of the infraorbital margin. It dispels wind, clears heat, brightens eyes.

Location

ST1 is located directly below the pupil when the eyes are looking straight forward, between the eyeball and the infraorbital ridge. It is in the depression at the center of the infraorbital margin.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.7 cun, carefully along the orbital rim. Avoid puncturing the eyeball.

⚠ Eye risk: needle along the orbital rim only; never angle toward the eyeball.
⚠ Direct/scarring moxa traditionally avoided here (face / sensory organ — scar & burn risk).

TCM functions

Dispels wind, clears heat, brightens eyes.

Indications

Lacrimation, redness and swelling of eyes, night blindness, facial paralysis, twitching of eyelids.

Meeting point of ST, Ren, Yang Qiao

Clinical notes

Chengqi is a crucial local point for eye disorders, particularly those involving redness, swelling, pain, and excessive tearing. As a meeting point of the Stomach, Ren, and Yang Qiao meridians, it powerfully dispels wind, clears heat, and brightens the eyes, making it effective for conjunctivitis, night blindness, and facial paralysis affecting the eye. Its name, 'Container of Tears,' reflects its direct action on lacrimation. It is often paired with BL1 and BL2 for various eye conditions.

On the Stomach channel

ST1 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST1 located?

ST1 is located directly below the pupil when the eyes are looking straight forward, between the eyeball and the infraorbital ridge. It is in the depression at the center of the infraorbital margin.

What is ST1 used for?

ST1 dispels wind, clears heat, brightens eyes. Common clinical indications include lacrimation, redness and swelling of eyes, night blindness, facial paralysis, twitching of eyelids.

How is ST1 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.3-0.7 cun, carefully along the orbital rim. Avoid puncturing the eyeball. Caution: ⚠ Eye risk: needle along the orbital rim only; never angle toward the eyeball. ⚠ Direct/scarring moxa traditionally avoided here (face / sensory organ — scar & burn risk).

Which meridian is ST1 on?

ST1 is a point on the Stomach Meridian (Zú Yángmíng Wèijīng).

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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.