HT-9 Shaochong
HT-9 Shaochong (少沖) is a point on the Heart meridian. In TCM theory it is described as influencing the channel's qi, and it is traditionally used in the context of the whole pattern rather than as a stand-alone remedy. This page explains how to locate it, what the tradition says about it, and how to press it safely.
Location
On the radial side of the little fingertip, about 0.1 cun from the corner of the nail.
How to find it
Look at the little finger; the point is at the thumb-side corner of the nail, just beyond the nail bed.
Traditional functions
- Jing-well point of the Heart meridian
- Clears heat
- Revives alertness
Traditional uses
- Feverishness and restlessness in traditional practice
- Chest discomfort
- Fainting in the classical emergency repertoire
- Finger numbness
How to press it
Press the fingertip gently for 20–30 seconds. This point is traditionally stimulated rather than deeply pressed.
Acupressure is generally a gentle practice. Use the pad of the thumb or finger, start with light pressure, and increase only to a comfortable level. A mild ache or warmth is common; sharp pain is a signal to ease off.
Safety
Do not puncture the skin. Seek emergency care for chest pain or fainting.
How this is viewed today
HT-9 is rarely studied in isolation. It appears in traditional emergency protocols rather than modern trials.
Sources & further reading
- Huangdi Neijing (黃帝內經), c. 2nd century BCE.
- Nanjing (難經), c. 1st–2nd century CE.
- World Health Organization, Standard Acupuncture Nomenclature, 2nd ed., 1991.
- Deadman P, Al-Khafaji M, Baker K. A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Acupuncture: What You Need To Know.
Related: Heart meridian · Acupoint library · HT-7 Shenmen · PC-7 Daling · LR-3 Taichong · all twelve meridians