ST30 Qi Thoroughfare

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

ST30 (Qichong, “Qi Thoroughfare”) is the Meeting point of the Stomach and Chong channels point of the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the lower abdomen, 2 cun lateral to the superior border of the pubic symphysis, in the inguinal region, medial to the femoral artery. It regulates Qi in the Lower Jiao, warms the Lower Jiao, regulates the Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel), and subdues rebellious Qi.

Location

On the lower abdomen, 2 cun lateral to the superior border of the pubic symphysis, in the inguinal region, medial to the femoral artery.

Needling

Perpendicular or oblique insertion, 0.5 to 1.5 cun. Avoid the femoral artery, which is typically just lateral to the point. Oblique inferomedial insertion is also used for hernia.

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TCM functions

Regulates Qi in the Lower Jiao, warms the Lower Jiao, regulates the Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel), and subdues rebellious Qi..

Indications

Accumulation in the lower abdomen, cold in the lower Jiao, hernia, genital pain and swelling, impotence, infertility, irregular menstruation, uterine bleeding, difficult urination, abdominal fullness, rebellious Qi rising to the chest, pain in the lower back and spine, pain and coldness in the knees and shins, testicular pain, abdominal pain, impotence with itching, difficult labor, retained placenta, postpartum abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, kidney-related foot qi with swelling and heat..

Meeting point of the Stomach and Chong channels

Clinical notes

Qichong is a crucial point for treating disorders of the Lower Jiao and the genitourinary system, reflecting its name as a 'Qi Thoroughfare' and its connection to the Chong Mai. It is particularly effective for hernia, whether inguinal or abdominal, and for various gynecological issues like irregular menstruation and infertility by regulating Qi and blood in the uterus. Its ability to address rebellious Qi makes it useful for conditions where Qi surges upward from the lower abdomen, as described in the Jin Gui Yao Lue.

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 superior border of the pubic symphysis, in the inguinal region, medial to the femoral artery.

What is ST30 used for?

ST30 regulates Qi in the Lower Jiao, warms the Lower Jiao, regulates the Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel), and subdues rebellious Qi. Common clinical indications include accumulation in the lower abdomen, cold in the lower Jiao, hernia, genital pain and swelling, impotence, infertility, irregular menstruation, uterine bleeding, difficult urination, abdominal fullness, rebellious Qi rising to the chest, pain in the lower back and spine, pain and coldness in the knees and shins, testicular pain, abdominal pain, impotence with itching, difficult labor, retained placenta, postpartum abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, kidney-related foot qi with swelling and heat.

How is ST30 needled?

Perpendicular or oblique insertion, 0.5 to 1.5 cun. Avoid the femoral artery, which is typically just lateral to the point. Oblique inferomedial insertion is also used for hernia. Caution: The femoral artery and vein are located just lateral to this point, and the spermatic cord in males is also in this vicinity. Deep or lateral needling should be performed with caution.

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.