Among the various acupoints in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Yang Hill Spring (Yang Ling Quan, GB34) is particularly notable. It’s frequently used by practitioners and valued by patients for a wide range of health issues, from joint and tendon problems to anxiety.
What makes Yang Ling Quan so effective? Ancient wisdom and modern research highlight its significant impact on the body’s meridian system and how it interacts with brain function.
Ancient Knowledge In Modern TCM Practice
Yang Ling Quan is first mentioned in the “Ling Shu,” also known as the “Spiritual Pivot,” one of the foundational texts of TCM that focuses on acupuncture therapy. Yang Ling Quan is classified as a He-sea point on the gallbladder meridian, an energy pathway associated with this organ. He-sea points have a unique ability to regulate the flow of qi and blood throughout the entire meridian.
Yang Ling Quan is also one of the Eight Influential Acupoints, specifically linked to the health of tendons and sinews. If you experience joint stiffness, muscular tightness, or neck, shoulders, or lower back pain, Yang Ling Quan is a prime choice for relief.
The Yang Ling Quan point significantly influences the gallbladder meridian, which helps address physical and mental health issues related to its function. Physically, it is traditionally used to alleviate a bitter taste in the mouth.
On the mental health side, because the gallbladder meridian is associated with traits such as decisiveness and courage, stimulating Yang Ling Quan is believed to enhance emotional clarity and resolve. This can be beneficial in counteracting feelings of unexplained or generalized anxiety.
Scientific Studies Confirm the Broad Impact
Extensive modern research has reinforced the effectiveness of stimulating Yang Ling Quan and is exploring the mechanism behind its various therapeutic functions. One study using resting-state regional homogeneity analysis found that acupuncture at Yang Ling Quan alters brain function, increasing activity in areas related to movement, cognition, and emotional processing while decreasing activity in the deeper parts of the brain, namely the thalamus and insular cortex. These findings suggest that Yang Ling Quan plays a role in motor control and mental health.
Anotherstudy investigated Yang Ling Quan’s impact on Parkinson’s disease patients. Functional MRI scans revealed that acupuncture at this specific point increased neural activity in key structures within the basal ganglia, including the substantia nigra, caudate, thalamus, and putamen.
These regions are responsible for motor control, movement planning, and various cognitive functions and are often impaired in those with Parkinson’s disease. These findings suggest that Yang Ling Quan acupuncture could help manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, though more research is needed.
Yang Ling Quan’s influence extends beyond the nervous system. In a study on acute liver damage, researchers found that acupuncture at Yang Ling Quan significantly reduced markers of liver injury in rats. While it did not fully reverse liver damage, it showed promising protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation, further solidifying its reputation as a point with far-reaching health benefits.
How to Locate and Stimulate Yang Ling Quan
The name “Yang Ling Quan” includes “yang,” which refers to the outer part of the body, while “yin” usually indicates the inner part. True to its name, this acupoint is located on the outer side of the lower leg. To find it, bend your knee and look for a bony bump just below the knee. Below this bump, in a small depression, you’ll find Yang Ling Quan. When pressed, it may create a numbing or sore sensation, particularly when the finger moves side to side over the tendon running downwards—this confirms you’ve found the right spot.
Yang Ling Quan can be Stimulated by:
- Acupressure: Press firmly on the point for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each leg.
- Massage: Use your thumb or index finger to massage in circular motions for one to three minutes. You should feel the tendon beneath your touch.
- Herbal Patches: Applying a patch overnight can provide extended stimulation for added benefits.
- Advanced Techniques: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion—a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort—under the guidance of a trained TCM practitioner can further enhance Yang Ling Quan’s effects.
Precautions and Considerations
Yang Ling Quan is a highly sensitive and powerful acupoint. Some people may find the sensation of stimulation intense, so it’s important to adjust the pressure according to comfort levels. Those with injuries in the area should avoid excessive pressure. If using herbal patches, opt for natural formulations to prevent skin irritation.
One Acupoint, Multiple Benefits
Yang Ling Quan is an acupuncture point famous for its versatility. From improving mobility and strengthening your tendons to soothing anxiety, this acupoint can be incredibly helpful. If you’re interested in holistic self-care, Yang Ling Quan is one of the must-know acupoints to help you or your loved ones on a journey towards long-term wellness.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 22 Mar 2025
