When kids are burning up with fever, emotions often run just as hot for their caretakers. Watching a child toss and turn or become inconsolably cranky can be overwhelming, especially when giving medications implies potential side effects. It’s no surprise that many are exploring holistic alternatives.
The Spasm Vessel (Chi Mai, also spelled Qi Mai, TE18) acupoint is a helpful tool in acupressure. In addition to reducing fever symptoms, it can also help calm the mind—a double benefit for restless nights and anxious little ones.
Chi Mai in Classical Chinese Medicine
First mentioned in “The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion,” Chi Mai has demonstrated its therapeutic value over time. This acupuncture point stimulates the Triple Energizer meridian, which, according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), regulates the circulation of qi and bodily fluids throughout the upper, middle, and lower body. However, Chi Mai’s true strength lies in its ability to eliminate two disruptive forces from the meridian: pathogenic heat and internal wind.
In TCM, “heat” loosely correlates with what Western medicine describes as inflammation or feverish conditions that can arise quickly or flare up unpredictably. “Wind” refers to a pathogenic pattern associated with sudden, erratic symptoms such as convulsions or tremors. Thanks to its ability to expel both factors, Chi Mai is frequently used for children experiencing restlessness, high fevers, and, in extreme cases, seizures caused by elevated temperatures.
Help for Night Terrors to Ringing Ears
Chi Mai also helps to calm the spirit. This concept is significant in TCM, as it relates to emotional and psychological well-being. Children who startle easily, wake up at night, or struggle to fall asleep due to vague fears may find relief from the calming effects of this point. Adults can also benefit from Chi Mai during times of unexplained anxiety or disrupted sleep.
Located near the ear, Chi Mai is also useful for treating various auditory conditions, particularly tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. Its close proximity to the ear canal makes it a common choice in TCM for addressing issues related to hearing.
Modern Insights Reinforce Ancient Practice
Recent clinical observations align with ancient knowledge. One clinical case study examined the effectiveness of electroacupuncture in two women with long-standing sensorineural hearing loss who did not respond to standard treatments. The patients received 12 sessions of electroacupuncture over four weeks, focusing on ear-adjacent points, including Chi Mai. Remarkably, both women experienced full hearing recovery within three weeks, with no reported side effects.
In another study, researchers investigated the prevention of motion sickness using a medicated patch. Among three different acupoints tested, Chi Mai demonstrated the highest protection rate at 100 percent, surpassing both Neiguan (P6) and Shenque (CV8). This suggests that Chi Mai may influence deeper neurological or vestibular mechanisms, further supporting its therapeutic properties.
How to Locate and Activate Chi Mai
To locate Chi Mai, imagine a line drawn on the back of your head that follows the contour of your ear, starting from the tip and extending to the point where the earlobe rests when pressed down toward the neck. Divide this line into three equal parts. Chi Mai is located one-third of the way up from the earlobe. It should be approximately level with your tragus, the small projection at the front of your ear canal. Gently feel around this area for a small indentation that may feel sore or tender to the touch. These sore or tender sensations indicate the presence of an acupoint.
Simple Ways to Activate Chi Mai
- Press and Release: Apply steady pressure for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage in gentle circles for one to three minutes per side.
- Herbal Patch: Apply overnight for slow, steady stimulation.
- Advanced Techniques: Trained professionals may use acupuncture, moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort), or even bloodletting (light pricking to release a drop or two of blood).
- For Younger Patients: Some practitioners recommend light, rapid scratching for 2 to three minutes on each side to stimulate qi and remove the pathogens.
Precautions
Avoid manually stimulating Chi Mai if open wounds, skin infections, or bruising are near the area. If you’re using herbal patches, avoid those with synthetic irritants—especially on sensitive skin or young children.
A Point That Nurtures Both Body and Mind
Parents often feel helpless when their child is burning up or suffering from unexplained fears at night. That’s when holistic tools like Chi Mai come in. With zero side effects, accessible location, and wide-ranging benefits—from fever relief to emotional calming—this point deserves a place in every family’s self-care toolbox. Give your child and your loved ones the extra support they need to rest, recover, and feel safe, all with the touch of your hands.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 18 Apr 2025
