ST26 Wailing

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

ST26 (Wailing, “Wailing”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the lower abdomen, 1 cun inferior to the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline. It regulates qi in the abdomen, alleviates pain.

Location

On the lower abdomen, 1 cun inferior to the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion, 0.8 to 1.5 cun.

TCM functions

Regulates qi in the abdomen, alleviates pain..

Indications

Abdominal pain, a sensation as if the heart is suspended, pain that pulls downward to the umbilicus and abdomen, generalized abdominal pain, hernia, wandering pain through the five viscera, sharp abdominal pain, abdominal accumulations, muscle pain, cold in the abdomen, diarrhea, dysentery with pus and blood..

Clinical notes

ST26 is a primary local point for various types of abdominal pain, particularly in the lower abdomen around the umbilicus. Its indications for a 'heart suspended' sensation and pain pulling downward suggest its utility for visceral ptosis or hernia-like disorders where there is a dragging sensation. It effectively addresses both acute, sharp pain and chronic, cold-related abdominal discomfort and accumulations.

On the Stomach channel

ST26 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST26 located?

ST26 (Wailing) is located on the lower abdomen, 1 cun inferior to the umbilicus and 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

What is ST26 used for?

ST26 regulates qi in the abdomen, alleviates pain. Common clinical indications include abdominal pain, a sensation as if the heart is suspended, pain that pulls downward to the umbilicus and abdomen, generalized abdominal pain, hernia, wandering pain through the five viscera, sharp abdominal pain, abdominal accumulations, muscle pain, cold in the abdomen, diarrhea, dysentery with pus and blood.

How is ST26 needled?

Perpendicular insertion, 0.8 to 1.5 cun.

Which meridian is ST26 on?

ST26 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.