GV 16 — Fēng Fǔ (风府) — Wind Palace
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1. Overview
GV 16 — Fēng Fǔ (风府) — is an acupuncture point on the Governing Vessel (Du Mai) meridian. Its English name, Wind Palace, 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 cun directly above the midpoint of the posterior hairline, below the external occipital protuberance.
3. Actions
- Primary Wind-expelling point on the Du Mai
- Clears the brain and calms the Mind
- Opens the orifices
- Benefits the head and neck
4. Indications
- Occipital headache and neck stiffness from Wind
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Post-stroke rehabilitation
- Epilepsy from internal Wind
- Sore throat from Wind-Heat
5. Needling
Perpendicular insertion 0.5–0.8 cun only. Never angle superiorly — medulla oblongata lies above.
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
GV 16 is the meeting point of the Du Mai with all Yang meridians at the occiput — the Sea of Marrow. It is the primary point for all Wind disorders affecting the head and brain. Needling must be perpendicular and shallow — the medulla oblongata lies directly above and deep needling is dangerous.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I use GV 16 as part of tailored acupuncture prescriptions for conditions including Neck pain, Headaches, High blood pressure. 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.
