Green Spirit (Qing Ling, HT2) acupoint plays a vital role in maintaining the smooth flow of energy through the Heart meridian. Often used alongside other more prominent points, it supports their effects like a skilled background musician in an orchestra—subtle, but essential.
Its value also lies in reinforcing the concept of meridians as dynamic pathways where even minor disruptions can ripple through the system—this low-profile point deserves your attention. Qing Ling is located about four finger-widths above the inner elbow crease, in the groove just inside the biceps muscle.
A Glimpse into Qing Ling’s Origins
Qing Ling was first documented in the “Taiping Holy Prescriptions for Universal Relief,” the Song Dynasty’s first medical formulary compiled under imperial order between 978 and 992 C.E. This monumental collection was widely circulated and referred to as “the first formulary of the Dynasty,” showcasing its importance and trustworthiness in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
Though Qing Ling doesn’t carry a dramatic title, it plays a strategic role. Located between the entry point of the meridian (HT1) and the He-Sea point (HT3), it helps regulate the flow of qi (vital energy) along the heart meridian. Think of it as a well-positioned traffic signal on a major highway. If energy gets blocked at this point, the smooth movement toward deeper healing is compromised. Qing Ling ensures the qi doesn’t just move, but moves well.
Qing Ling’s influence goes beyond energy flow. Like many heart meridian points, Qing Ling is also known to alleviate heart-related discomforts, such as tightness or pain. Because acupoints can potentially treat pain and stiffness where their meridian travels, this acupoint can help with symptoms in the upper arm and down toward the hand. In short, it supports both local and systemic healing.
Modern Applications: Qing Ling’s Subtle but Solid Support
While Qing Ling isn’t often studied in isolation, modern clinical practice confirms its usefulness as a supportive acupoint in broader treatment strategies. A relevant example comes from a study examining photo acupuncture for postpartum carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
In the trial, 36 women with CTS were split into two groups—one received night splints only, and the other received night splints plus photo acupuncture on select points, including points on the Heart meridian. After four weeks of treatment, the acupuncture group demonstrated significantly improved nerve function, a stronger grip, and enhanced hand usage. While Qing Ling wasn’t singled out, it was a part of the treatment protocol that supports its value in real-world healing strategies, especially for issues affecting the hand and arm.
How to Locate and Stimulate Qing Ling
Locating Qing Ling is straightforward. Flex your elbow. From the inner end of the elbow crease (near HT3), measure four finger-widths up the arm. The point sits in the groove just inside the biceps brachii muscle. Locate a point that feels sore or tender when pressed, as these sensations indicate the presence of an acupoint.
Stimulating Qing Ling at Home
You don’t need needles to benefit from this point:
- Press: Firmly apply pressure on the point for three to five seconds, pause for three seconds, and repeat the cycle for one to three minutes per arm.
- Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to make small circular motions over the point for one to three minutes.
- Herbal Patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for sustained stimulation.
To enhance stimulation, acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) performed by a licensed TCM practitioner can activate Qing Ling more effectively.
Precautions
Avoid applying pressure to this point if you have injuries, swelling, or skin irritation in the area. When using herbal patches, avoid those with harsh or irritating additives, especially if your skin is sensitive. Instead, opt for natural formulations..
Small Point, Big Insight
What Qing Ling lacks in dazzle, it makes up for in something equally valuable: insight. If you notice increased tenderness or sensitivity when pressing this point, it might signal an underlying issue along the heart meridian. By tuning in to these subtle messages, you can better understand your body’s energy flow and support its needs before problems escalate. So give Qing Ling a try—it just might reveal more than you expect.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 5 May 2025
