GB 8 — Shuài Gǔ (率谷) — Leading Valley
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1. Overview
GB 8 — Shuài Gǔ (率谷) — is an acupuncture point on the Gallbladder meridian. Its English name, Leading Valley, reflects the point’s classical character and location. It is used regularly in acupuncture practice 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 practise at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire.
2. Location
1.5 cun directly above the apex of the ear.
3. Actions
- Expels Wind and stops temporal headache
- Subdues Liver Yang and calms Wind
- Benefits the ears
4. Indications
- Migraine — particularly unilateral temporal migraine
- Temporal headache
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Vomiting from Liver Yang excess
5. Needling
Transverse insertion 0.5–0.8 cun.
Important: Acupuncture should only be performed by a fully qualified practitioner. All needles I use are sterile, single-use and disposed of in a clinical sharps container immediately after treatment.
6. Clinical notes
GB 8 is one of the most important local points for temporal migraine, as the Gallbladder channel runs directly through the temporal region. Combined with GB 20, TB 5 and LV 3 it forms the core prescription for Gallbladder-channel migraine.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use GB 8 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Migraines, Headaches. 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.
