The gallbladder rarely gets much attention—until problems arise. Many people have gallstones without ever knowing it, as most cases remain asymptomatic. However, gallbladder issues become more common with age.
In the United States alone, over 6.3 million men and 14.2 million women between the ages of 20 and 74 have gallstones. While only about 10 percent develop symptoms within five years of diagnosis, this number rises to 20 percent within two decades. Women over 60 are particularly affected.
The gallbladder meridian’s close relationship with the liver meridian explains why this acupoint is beneficial for liver conditions such as hepatitis. By restoring a healthy flow of energy in these organs, Ri Yue helps with digestion, detoxification, and metabolic function.
Modern Scientific Insights
Modern research has extensively explored the effectiveness of Ri Yue, particularly in managing gallstones. One clinical study compared electroacupuncture with conventional gallstone treatments, such as herbal medicine, magnesium sulfate, and dietary adjustments. The electroacupuncture group, which received stimulation at specific acupoints, including Ri Yue, had a significantly higher success rate at 86.7 percent than the control group at 68.3 percent. These findings suggest that acupuncture at Ri Yue may be a superior method for supporting gallbladder health.
Further research has linked Ri Yue to the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a key system that controls stress responses, hormone levels, and overall bodily balance. Research shows that stimulating Ri Yue can affect brain activity in a key area called the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus. This area helps control stress hormones, including the hormones that trigger the stress response and the ones that help regulate it.
Since the gallbladder and liver meridians have strong neurological connections to the adrenal glands, activating Ri Yue may help balance hormone levels, reduce stress responses, and support emotional well-being. These findings validate TCM’s long-standing use of Ri Yue in liver and gallbladder-related treatments.
How to Locate and Stimulate Ri Yue
Ri Yue is located on the front of the body, between the seventh and eighth ribs, in line with the nipple. In typical male anatomy, the nipple is between the fourth and fifth ribs, so you can move your finger three ribs down. Your finger will be about a palm’s width away from the midline of the body. Gently press in that area to check for sensitivity, which indicates you are in the right spot.
- Direct Pressure: Press firmly on the point for three to five seconds, release, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage the point in slow circles for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal Patch Therapy: Apply a herbal patch overnight to support energy flow.
- Advanced Techniques: Cupping or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) can be performed by a trained TCM professional. Due to the use of heat, professional application ensures safety.
Precautions When Using Ri Yue
Avoid stimulating Ri Yue if there are injuries or inflammation in the surrounding area. If you’re utilizing herbal patches, opt for those made with natural ingredients to minimize the risk of skin irritation. For those with gallbladder or liver conditions, it is advisable to begin with gentle pressure, as this area may be particularly sensitive.
Supporting gallbladder function before complications arise is a proactive approach to long-term health. One way to do this is by stimulating the Sun and Moon (Ri Yue, GB24), an acupoint known for its remarkable ability to promote gallbladder and liver health.
How TCM Explains Ri Yue’s Effectiveness
Ri Yue has been recognized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) since the “Mai Jing (The Pulse Classic).” It is classified as a “mu” acupoint, meaning it serves as a gathering place for the vital energy traveling along the gallbladder meridian. Because of this, stimulating GB24 can be highly effective in treating gallbladder-related diseases, particularly cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation).
Due to its proximity to the lungs, acupuncture at this point should only be conducted by a highly trained TCM doctor or acupuncturist.
Self-Care as an Investment in Long-Term Wellness
Taking care of your body before problems arise is one of the best ways to ensure long-term health. If you or someone you know is at high risk for gallbladder or liver issues due to metabolic, environmental, or lifestyle factors, consider sharing this knowledge with them. A great way to understand the benefits of acupressure is to try it for yourself. Explore this ancient practice to see how it enhances your well-being.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung helped ensure the accuracy and clarity of this article.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 21 Mar 2025
