ST30 Surging Qi

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

ST30 (Qichong, “Surging Qi”) is the Sea of Qi point of the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the lower abdomen, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, 5 cun inferior to the umbilicus, at the level of the superior border of the pubic symphysis. It regulates Qi and blood in the Lower Jiao.

Location

On the lower abdomen, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, 5 cun inferior to the umbilicus, at the level of the superior border of the pubic symphysis.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Caution for femoral artery.

⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk).
⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the femoral artery).

TCM functions

Regulates Qi and blood in the Lower Jiao.

Indications

Abdominal pain, hernia, irregular menstruation, impotence, swelling of the vulva.

Sea of Qi

Clinical notes

ST30, 'Surging Qi,' is a point of the Sea of Qi, indicating its profound influence on the body's fundamental energy. It is crucial for regulating Qi and blood in the lower jiao, making it effective for hernia, irregular menstruation, and impotence. Its connection to the Chong Mai further enhances its ability to address gynecological and reproductive issues.

On the Stomach channel

ST30 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST30 located?

ST30 (Qichong) is located on the lower abdomen, 2 cun lateral to the anterior midline, 5 cun inferior to the umbilicus, at the level of the superior border of the pubic symphysis.

What is ST30 used for?

ST30 regulates Qi and blood in the Lower Jiao. Common clinical indications include abdominal pain, hernia, irregular menstruation, impotence, swelling of the vulva.

How is ST30 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 0.5-1 cun. Caution for femoral artery. Caution: ⚠ Pregnancy: avoid — may stimulate uterine contraction (miscarriage / early-labour risk). ⚠ Major vessel/nerve nearby — palpate first; avoid deep insertion (near the femoral artery).

Which meridian is ST30 on?

ST30 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.