ST3 Great Crevice

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

ST3 (Juliao, “Great Crevice”) is an acupuncture point on the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the face, directly below the pupil, at the level of the inferior border of the ala nasi, on the lateral side of the nasolabial groove. It dispels wind and clears heat from the face.

Location

On the face, directly below the pupil, at the level of the inferior border of the ala nasi, on the lateral side of the nasolabial groove.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Caution for infraorbital foramen.

⚠ 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 and clears heat from the face.

Indications

Facial paralysis, twitching of eyelids, epistaxis, toothache.

Clinical notes

ST3 is a significant local point for facial disorders, particularly facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia, and eye deviations. It effectively dispels wind and clears heat from the face, making it useful for conditions like Bell's palsy or toothache. It is often needled towards ST4 or ST6 for synergistic effects on facial muscles.

On the Stomach channel

ST3 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST3 located?

ST3 (Juliao) is located on the face, directly below the pupil, at the level of the inferior border of the ala nasi, on the lateral side of the nasolabial groove.

What is ST3 used for?

ST3 dispels wind and clears heat from the face. Common clinical indications include facial paralysis, twitching of eyelids, epistaxis, toothache.

How is ST3 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion 0.3-0.5 cun. Caution for infraorbital foramen. 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 ST3 on?

ST3 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.