Traditional Chinese medicine TCM can sometimes feel overwhelming due to its unique terminology and philosophical foundations. However, learning about individual acupoints offers a clear and practical entry point into this ancient healing system.
Clamped Stream (Xia Xi, GB43) is an excellent example—it provides insight into the TCM concept of heat, how it impacts the body, and how you benefit when you clear the excess heat and guide your body toward its natural balance.
Whether you’re dealing with headaches, high blood pressure, or a dry mouth, this acupoint can offer relief. By exploring Xia Xi, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the way TCM approaches health holistically.
Ancient Wisdom: A Classic Acupoint for Clearing Heat
Xia Xi was first documented in the “Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot),” one of the foundational texts of TCM that focuses on acupuncture therapy. This acupoint belongs to the gallbladder meridian and is classified as a Ying-Spring point, known for its ability to clear heat from the body. However, heat in TCM differs from the Western medical concept of fever.
In TCM, excessive heat can build up in the body due to poor sleep, eating spicy foods, or emotional stress. Symptoms include a red face, red eyes, dry mouth, bitter taste, bad breath (even after dental care), headaches, dizziness, and elevated blood pressure. Stimulating Xia Xi helps to dispel this excess heat, restoring a sense of balance and comfort.
Scientific Perspective: What Modern Research Reveals
TCM’s traditional knowledge is being examined through the lens of modern research. Scientists are investigating how acupoints like Xia Xi affect the body and contribute to healing.
One study explored the effectiveness of rehabilitation training combined with acupuncture in treating joint dysfunction after meniscal suture surgery. The treatment protocol included Xia Xi, along with other special acupoints. The study divided 71 patients into two groups—one receiving rehabilitation and acupuncture, the other relying on rehabilitation alone.
Results indicated that the combination of acupuncture and rehabilitation led to better recovery outcomes, suggesting that acupoints like Xia Xi enhance joint healing.
Another study examined the role of electroacupuncture in treating sudden hearing loss. Researchers compared two groups: one received electroacupuncture at acupoints, including Xia Xi, while the other was treated with conventional Western medicine. The results showed that the acupuncture group experienced significant improvements in hearing, highlighting the potential of acupoint therapy in auditory recovery.
These studies demonstrate how acupoints possess a wide range of healing properties that may seem unrelated when viewed through the lens of conventional medicine.
How to Locate and Activate Xia Xi
Xia Xi is named for its location along the gallbladder meridian (energy pathway), which appears to flow like a small stream on top of the foot between the fourth and fifth toes. You can find it where the toes meet, closer to the bone of the fourth toe. A more intuitive method to locate it is to gently and mindfully run your finger up the bone of the fourth toe until you feel a small indentation—this is Xia Xi. If you experience a sore or tender sensation, you have identified the correct spot.
Stimulating Xia Xi is simple and can be done anywhere. Here are some effective techniques:
- Pressure: Use an index finger or a thumb to press firmly on Xia Xi for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each foot. Depending on the mobility levels, you can also use a blunt object like the back of a pen or chopstick to reach the foot and apply steady pressure.
- Circular Massage: Use your index finger or thumb to massage the area in circular motions for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal Patch: Applying an herbal patch overnight provides continuous stimulation.
- Professional Techniques: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion, a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort, by a trained TCM practitioner, can offer deeper therapeutic benefits.
Important Safety Considerations
Avoid stimulating Xia Xi if you have injuries or open wounds in the area. If using herbal patches, opt for ones with natural ingredients and avoid harsh artificial additives, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Self-Care Made Simple
Xia Xi is one of the easiest acupoints to find and activate. You can stimulate it while watching TV, reading, or even during a short break at work. Pay attention to how your body responds—if you feel tenderness or soreness, it may be a sign that your body needs extra care. TCM offers a wealth of tools to help you listen to and support your body’s natural energy flow. Give Xia Xi a try and experience the benefits for yourself.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung helped ensure the accuracy and clarity of this article.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 31 Mar 2025
