ST36 Leg Three Miles

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

ST36 (Zusanli, “Leg Three Miles”) is the He-Sea (Earth) point of the Stomach Meridian. It is located on the anterior aspect of the lower leg, 3 cun inferior to ST35, one finger-breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia. It harmonizes the Stomach, strengthens the Spleen, tonifies Qi and blood, dispels pathogens.

Location

On the anterior aspect of the lower leg, 3 cun inferior to ST35, one finger-breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia.

Needling

Perpendicular insertion 1-2 cun.

TCM functions

Harmonizes the Stomach, strengthens the Spleen, tonifies Qi and blood, dispels pathogens.

Indications

Gastric pain, vomiting, abdominal distention, diarrhea, constipation, mastitis, enteritis, hemiplegia, dizziness, insomnia, mental disorders, general weakness.

He-Sea (Earth)Lower He-Sea

Clinical notes

ST36 is arguably the most important and versatile point on the body, serving as the He-Sea (Earth) point and a Lower He-Sea point of the Stomach. It is a command point for the abdomen, celebrated for its profound ability to tonify Qi and Blood, strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, and regulate digestion. Clinically, it treats a vast array of conditions from chronic fatigue and digestive disorders to immune deficiency and general weakness. A classic pairing is with Ren12 (Zhongwan) to powerfully harmonize the Middle Jiao.

On the Stomach channel

ST36 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST36 located?

ST36 (Zusanli) is located on the anterior aspect of the lower leg, 3 cun inferior to ST35, one finger-breadth lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia.

What is ST36 used for?

ST36 harmonizes the Stomach, strengthens the Spleen, tonifies Qi and blood, dispels pathogens. Common clinical indications include gastric pain, vomiting, abdominal distention, diarrhea, constipation, mastitis, enteritis, hemiplegia, dizziness, insomnia, mental disorders, general weakness.

How is ST36 needled?

Perpendicular insertion 1-2 cun.

Which meridian is ST36 on?

ST36 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.