BL 26 — Guān Yuán Shū (关元俞) — Gate of Origin Shu
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1. Overview
BL 26 — Guān Yuán Shū (关元俞) — is an acupuncture point on the Bladder meridian. Its English name, Gate of Origin Shu, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used in acupuncture practice as part of channel-balancing prescriptions for a range of conditions.
I am Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto, a member of the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience. I use BL 26 as part of individually tailored acupuncture prescriptions at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the fifth lumbar vertebra.
3. Actions
- Strengthens the lower back and knees
- Removes obstructions from the channel
- Regulates the Lower Jiao
- Transforms Damp-Stagnation
4. Indications
- Lower Jiao wasting and thirsting
- Dysenteric disorders
- Painful urinary dysfunction
- Chronic peritonitis
- Chronic enteritis
- Abdominal distention and pain
- Cystitis
- Urinary incontinence
- Constipation
5. Needling
Straight insertion, 1.5 to 2 cun. Sensation: local distention and soreness, sometimes extending to the leg.
Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. Never attempt self-needling. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of immediately after treatment in a clinical sharps container.
6. Clinical notes
BL 26 Guān Yuán Shū (Gate of Origin Shu) is used as part of channel-balancing prescriptions tailored to the patient’s individual TCM diagnosis.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use BL 26 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Constipation, Diarrhea, Back pain, Sciatica. Each treatment is individually designed following a full TCM assessment.
I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Visit the prices page for consultation fees. Return to the acupuncture points directory or the acupuncture main page.
