When you visit a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner, you may hear about “blockages in the meridians.” At first, this concept might seem abstract, but it has a practical meaning. In TCM, a blockage refers to the disrupted circulation of blood and vital energy, known as qi. Blockages can be caused by factors such as stress, poor sleep, an unhealthy diet, or chronic tension.
External pathogens like excessive heat, cold, or wind can also throw your body out of balance. When the natural flow of energy is interrupted, physical and emotional health can suffer. Blood and qi are seen as interconnected forces—one influencing the other—and any disturbance affects the entire system.
Today, we will spotlight Marsh at the Bend (Qu Ze, PC3), a key acupoint that helps prevent and dissolve blockages in the Pericardium meridian, one of the body’s most important energetic channels.
A Deep-Acting Acupoint With Multiple Benefits
Qu Ze is the Sea Point of the Pericardium meridian. In ancient texts, this type of point is described as where qi goes deeper into the body to influence its related organ. Sea points are considered powerful gateways for regulating the flow of energy in the meridian.
Qu Ze is especially useful for clearing heat. In TCM, the part of the Pericardium meridian running along the upper arm is particularly prone to stagnation and trapping heat, manifesting as chest tightness, digestive upset, or even excessive irritability.
These unique characteristics allow Qu Ze to address a wide range of issues. Its connection to the heart makes it a go-to point for symptoms like palpitations and chest pain. Because of its influence on the midsection, it’s also used for stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting—all common symptoms when qi isn’t flowing correctly. And because the Pericardium meridian also runs down the arm, Qu Ze can help relieve tremors, numbness, and pain in the lower arm and elbow region.
Science Catches Up: The Heart-Meridian Connection
Modern research validates the traditional claims about Qu Ze and the Pericardium meridian. In a study of 100 coronary heart disease patients, researchers used various tools—like ECGs and blood flow imaging—to observe the effects of acupuncture at different points on the pericardium line. They discovered that needling specific acupoints such as Tianquan (PC2) and Qu Ze significantly improved heart function, whereas non-acupoint locations nearby had little to no effect. This shows that true acupoints have measurable physiological effects, supporting the TCM belief that these locations are more than arbitrary spots.
How to Locate and Stimulate Qu Ze
Qu Ze is easy to locate. Bend your elbow and look for the crease that forms at the joint. You’ll find Qu Ze on the inner side of that elbow crease, right in the depression next to the biceps tendon. It’s slightly toward the pinky side of your arm and feels like a small dip in the skin. When an acupoint is pressed, it will feel sore or tender, indicating the correct spot.
How to Stimulate Qu Ze at Home
You can activate Qu Ze using simple self-care techniques:
- Press firmly with your thumb or index finger for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes.
- Massage in small circles for one to three minutes on each side to stimulate the point and encourage better blood flow.
- Herbal patch: Consider using an herbal patch overnight for a deeper effect.
For a more intensive approach, a trained TCM professional can perform acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) at the Qu Ze point.
Precautions
While acupressure is generally safe, avoid using Qu Ze if you have bruises, cuts, or inflammation near your elbow crease. If you’re using herbal patches, opt for natural formulas, especially if your skin is sensitive.
Natural Support for Healthy Circulation
You don’t have to fully subscribe to the TCM ideas of qi and meridians to get value from acupressure. Think of it as a way to support healthy circulation and reduce stress, using nothing more than your fingertips. Daily practice takes only minutes and comes with no side effects. If a point feels tender or unusually sore, don’t ignore it—that’s your body signaling that something needs attention. Your heart deserves more than just routine care.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 26 Apr 2025
