Today, we are starting a new chapter to learn about the Small Intestine meridian. Although its name might suggest a primary focus on digestion, the Small Intestine meridian has broader implications for our health and well-being in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
The small intestine is considered the “outer meridian,“ which pairs with the heart, known as the ”inner meridian.” It runs from the little finger up to the head along the outer side of the body. This unique relationship highlights the small intestine’s vital role in physical digestion and the emotional regulation associated with the heart. Its first point is on the little finger—Lesser Marsh (Shao Ze, SI1).
A Point With Ancient Roots and Practical Power
Shao Ze is first mentioned in the “Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot),” one of the foundational texts of acupuncture that delves into its technical and therapeutic aspects. As a Jing Well point, Shao Ze serves as the entry point for vital energy from the surrounding environment to flow into the meridian. It provides an opening to help clear pathogenic heat from the meridian, particularly its opposite end. That’s why it’s used in conditions like a sore throat or high fever with no sweating.
One of Shao Ze’s most impressive functions is its ability to help new mothers. Clinically, it’s among the top five most effective points for treating insufficient lactation. Historically, Shao Ze has been used to support new mothers during postpartum recovery when they are struggling with common issues such as inflammation of the breast tissue (mastitis) or poor milk flow.
Research Confirms: A Proven Boost for Breastfeeding
Traditional knowledge is now well-supported by modern science. Clinical research has demonstrated that electroacupuncture at the Shao Ze acupuncture point significantly enhances the volume and quality of breast milk in women experiencing postpartum hypogalactia (low milk volume).
In one study, mothers who underwent electroacupuncture at Shao Ze saw an increase in milk volume and also experienced improvements in its density, lactose, fat, and protein content. These benefits were even more pronounced with continued treatment.
In contrast, the control group, which was treated at a different acupoint, only showed modest increases in milk volume with no significant changes in milk quality. The effectiveness rate of stimulation at Shao Ze was an impressive 92.9 percent, compared to 17.9 percent in the control group. These results indicate that stimulating Shao Ze can make a substantial difference in the quantity and nutritional quality of breast milk.
How to Locate and Stimulate Shao Ze
Shao Ze is relatively easy to locate, but it requires some precision. It is situated just a couple of millimeters away from the outer corner of the nail on your little finger. To find this acupoint, gently press around that area with your nail until you identify a spot that responds to pressure with sensations of soreness or numbness. These sensations indicate that you have found the correct acupoint.
How to Activate Shao Ze
- Pressure: Press the point firmly for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat the cycle for one to three minutes on each side.
- Massage: A circular massage using your thumb for three to five minutes on each side can also effectively stimulate the acupoint.
Depending on your health goals and comfort levels, a licensed TCM professional can use advanced methods, such as acupuncture, bloodletting, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort), for deeper effects.
Precautions
If you are pregnant or think you might be, please do not use this acupoint without first consulting a TCM professional. Also, avoid using this acupoint if you have cuts, burns, or other injuries on or around the little finger. If you opt for bloodletting techniques, ensure that the area is thoroughly sanitized, and do not attempt bloodletting on your own.
Supporting New Mothers Through Acupressure
The postpartum period is often as overwhelming as it is joyful. Challenges like low milk supply can create additional strain for both parents and extended family. Whether you’re a grandparent, sibling, or close friend, learning to support a new mother through simple acupressure techniques like activating Shao Ze can provide physical relief and emotional connection. It can be a beautiful way to show up for loved ones—sharing time, care, and the ancient healing wisdom of TCM.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 16 May 2025
