ST4 Earth Granary

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

ST4 (Dicang, “Earth Granary”) is the Meeting point of LI, GB, Ren point of the Stomach Meridian. It is located lateral to the corner of the mouth, 0.4 cun lateral to the labial commissure. It dispels wind and activates the channel, benefits the face.

Location

Lateral to the corner of the mouth, 0.4 cun lateral to the labial commissure.

Needling

Oblique insertion 0.5-1 cun, or transverse insertion 1-2 cun towards other points.

⚠ Direct/scarring moxa traditionally avoided here (face / sensory organ — scar & burn risk).

TCM functions

Dispels wind and activates the channel, benefits the face.

Indications

Facial paralysis, twitching of eyelids, salivation, toothache.

Meeting point of LI, GB, Ren

Clinical notes

ST4 is a crucial local point on the face, serving as a meeting point of the Stomach, Large Intestine, Gallbladder, and Ren meridians. It is primarily used to dispel wind and activate the channel, benefiting the face and mouth. It is highly effective for facial paralysis (Bell's palsy), trigeminal neuralgia, and deviation of the mouth. Its action helps to restore motor function and alleviate pain in the facial region. It is often paired with LI4 (Hegu) for facial paralysis.

On the Stomach channel

ST4 is one of 45 points on the Stomach Meridian. Nearby points:

Frequently asked questions

Where is ST4 located?

ST4 (Dicang) is located lateral to the corner of the mouth, 0.4 cun lateral to the labial commissure.

What is ST4 used for?

ST4 dispels wind and activates the channel, benefits the face. Common clinical indications include facial paralysis, twitching of eyelids, salivation, toothache.

How is ST4 needled?

Oblique insertion 0.5-1 cun, or transverse insertion 1-2 cun towards other points. Caution: ⚠ Direct/scarring moxa traditionally avoided here (face / sensory organ — scar & burn risk).

Which meridian is ST4 on?

ST4 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.