Today marks an important milestone as we begin our exploration of the Heart Meridian. This energy pathway in the body is linked to the internal organ of the heart. In Western medicine, the heart is primarily associated with cardiovascular health. However, in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the Heart meridian also plays a crucial role in regulating emotions and maintaining emotional balance.
The first acupoint of the Heart Meridian is Ji Quan, also known as Supreme Spring (HT1). In TCM, this point is recognized for its benefits to heart health and for addressing a less commonly discussed issue—underarm odor. The combination of its physical and emotional benefits makes Ji Quan an acupoint worth exploring.
Ancient Classics to Modern Practice
Ji Quan is first mentioned in the “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing (The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion),” a foundational text compiled in the 3rd century. In TCM, entry points are gateways that help balance excess yin or yang energy in a specific meridian (energy pathway) by transferring it to the related organ experiencing deficiency. This process aids the body in returning to its natural equilibrium.
Ji Quan promotes systemic circulation and stimulates sweat production, helping to regulate body temperature. This acupoint is also recommended in emergencies, such as myocardial infarction (heart attack), cardiac hypoxia (low oxygen to the heart), and angina pectoris (chest pain due to reduced blood flow), due to its ability to regulate blood flow. It is also a common point for ongoing support in cases of heart palpitations, chest tightness, or a feeling of pressure around the chest.
Ji Quan also addresses a concern that many people hesitate to discuss with their doctors—excessive armpit odor. While Western treatments can range from home remedies to more invasive interventions like botulinum toxin injections, TCM offers a free, non-invasive holistic alternative: regular massage of Ji Quan.
Modern Research and Ji Quan’s Circulatory Power
Scientific research supports what the ancients have long known: Ji Quan is a valuable tool for improving circulation and easing pain. In one study, researchers treated patients suffering from cervical spondylosis due to qi stagnation and blood stasis—a condition that impairs blood flow and causes chronic neck pain.
Participants received targeted needling at local pain points and systemic points like Ji Quan and Baihui. After two weeks of intensive treatment five times a week, patients reported significant pain relief, with an overall effectiveness rate of 97.5 percent. These results demonstrate Ji Quan’s ability to enhance circulation and reduce discomfort, far beyond its role in cardiovascular health.
How to Locate and Stimulate Ji Quan
Finding Ji Quan is simple. Raise your arm above your head and look into the center of your armpit. Ji Quan is located on the inner side of the axillary artery, nestled right in the middle of the armpit. Because of its position near a major blood vessel, it has direct access to systemic circulation and heart-related pathways.
How to Activate Ji Quan
- Pressure technique: Press the point firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for about three seconds. Repeat this cycle for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage Ji Quan in small circles for up to three minutes.
- Herbal patch: If you prefer a hands-off approach or want to opt for a prolonged stimulation, apply an herbal patch to the area overnight.
- Professional techniques: For deeper activation, acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) can be used by trained TCM practitioners. These methods are frequently used to address axillary odor.
Precautions
If you’ve had injuries near your shoulder or armpit, refrain from manual stimulation until you’ve healed. When selecting herbal patches, carefully read the ingredient list to avoid products containing synthetic or overly harsh chemicals, especially if your skin tends to react easily.
A Simple Step Toward Stronger Circulation
Stimulating Ji Quan is a powerful start to maintaining heart health and stable circulation. Its proximity to the axillary artery gives it a direct line to influence blood flow, and it’s remarkably easy to find and work with at home. Whether supporting your cardiovascular system or dealing with something as basic as body odor, this entry point into the Heart meridian is worth trying. Regular attention to Ji Quan could be your body’s first step toward balanced energy and a healthier heart.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 16 May 2025
