With the name “Sea of Blood,” this acupoint might sound like it belongs in a horror movie. However, in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), names carry weight, meaning, and function—and this one’s no exception.
The Sea of Blood (Xue Hai, SP10) isn’t spooky, it’s essential. While “blood” in TCM has many functions similar to those you learned in biology class, it also has unique capabilities to help you feel and look more youthful. You might wonder how stimulating a point above your knee can affect your body.
The Role of Xue Hai in TCM
The concept of Xue Hai was first recorded in the ancient classic “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing” (“The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion”). It has long been recognized as essential for blood regulation. While we often think of blood’s primary function as transporting oxygen and nutrients, TCM views blood as a vital substance that nourishes and hydrates the entire body.
Xue Hai is the point along the Spleen meridian where blood accumulates most abundantly. It enhances and supports the spleen’s role in transporting and regulating blood throughout the body.
Commonly used to regulate menstruation and treat blood-related disorders, Xue Hai’s therapeutic benefits reach into other areas as well. Blood nourishes the organs, including the body’s largest organ—the skin. As a result, stimulating Xue Hai is frequently included in treatment protocols for various skin conditions. TCM practitioners often identify “lack of blood” or poor blood circulation by observing signs such as dull, dry skin, brittle hair, and an overall anemic appearance. Therefore, even without a diagnosed skin condition, activating this acupoint can promote a youthful glow and enhance vitality from within.
How Modern Medicine Is Catching Up
Modern research is starting to validate the therapeutic impact of Xue Hai. A recent clinical study tested whether adding acupuncture to standard care could help elderly patients recover more effectively after hip surgery. Ninety-seven patients were split into two groups—one received aspirin alone, and the other received aspirin plus acupuncture at points including Xue Hai.
The results showed that the acupuncture group had significantly less pain by day five, better mobility and independence two months later, and reduced inflammatory markers. These findings suggest that boosting the blood can help the body recover faster and more comfortably from a blood-depleting experience like surgery.
How to Locate and Activate Xue Hai
Xue Hai is located on the inner thigh, just above your knee, nestled within the bulge of the quadriceps muscle. Traditional instructions suggest bending the knee and measuring three finger-widths above the top edge of the kneecap, toward the inside.
When locating this acupoint on another person, practitioners often rely on a more intuitive approach. The patient keeps their knee bent while the practitioner places their palm over the patient’s knee, where the thumb will typically rest near the acupoint. TCM researchers have highlighted the challenge of locating this acupoint with precision due to people’s anatomical differences. They advise double-checking the location using measurements and visual cues.
A key indicator that you have found the correct acupoint is a sensation of soreness or tenderness, confirming that you are indeed on the right spot.
Activating the Acupoint
You can employ the following techniques to make this point work for you:
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patches: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: For deeper stimulation, consult a licensed TCM practitioner for acupuncture or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort).
If you’re finding it difficult to pinpoint the exact spot or prefer an easier method, you can use a hairdryer on low heat over the general area for 10 to 15 minutes on each side. Xue Hai is known to respond well to gentle, sustained heat.
Precautions
Avoid this acupoint if you have injuries, inflammation, or open wounds in the area. Herbal patches should be chosen with care—opt for natural, skin-friendly formulas, especially if you’re prone to allergic reactions.
Care for Your Blood, Care for Yourself
Whether you’re recovering from surgery, dealing with anemia, or simply looking to give your skin a youthful glow, Xue Hai is definitely worth your attention. When your blood properly nourishes your body, the resulting vibrancy is impossible to hide.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 14 June 2025
