Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) acupoint names can often seem cryptic—until you unpack their meaning. For instance, the acupoint, Wu Yi (ST15), usually translated as “Roof,” might sound odd for a point located on your chest, but ancient practitioners rarely picked names at random.
The name of this point reveals much about its function. In older texts, “Yi” referred to a feathered canopy that protected carriages from wind, sun, and dust. From an energetic perspective, the name is quite fitting, as Wu Yi serves a similar purpose for the body.
Wisdom From the Classical Texts
First mentioned in “Ling Shu” (“Spiritual Pivot”)—a foundational TCM text mainly focused on acupuncture—Wu Yi carries both symbolic and practical significance. It lies along the Stomach meridian, but its influence reaches beyond digestion. The chest is a convergence zone—the vital energy or qi from the lungs, spleen, and stomach creates a hub of energetic exchange. Wu Yi’s job is to protect that hub. Like a well-fitted roof, it keeps the interior safe from external influences while helping regulate internal harmony.
Practical Functions
Wu Yi is best known for its preventive and regulatory functions, particularly for the chest region. It’s a useful acupoint when dealing with lingering lung issues, such as persistent cough, chest tightness, or a heavy, oppressive feeling in the chest that doesn’t quite go away. It’s also a valuable point for addressing breast-related concerns—distention, pain, or inflammation, including mastitis. As a frontline defender, Wu Yi goes beyond treating symptoms—it helps keep problems from developing in the first place.
What Research Shows
Wu Yi is gaining attention in research, especially for hormone-related breast conditions. In one animal study, researchers investigated whether stimulating Wu Yi alone could treat mammary gland hyperplasia, a common condition associated with hormonal imbalance. Female rats with induced hyperplasia were treated either at Wu Yi only or at a combination of several points. Acupuncture at Wu Yi alone was just as effective as using multiple points in reducing the swelling in the mammary glands. The initial findings show promising results, making a strong case for Wu Yi as a standalone therapeutic point in the care of benign breast conditions.
How to Locate and Stimulate Wu Yi
Although classical instructions say it’s about four thumb widths or four cun away from the midline in the second intercostal space, the faster method is to trace a straight vertical line upward from the nipple until you find the space between the second and third ribs. Press around that point gently until you feel a slightly sore or tender spot. These sensations indicate the presence of an acupoint.
How to Stimulate Wu Yi
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for prolonged gentle stimulation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy using dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Due to its close proximity to the lungs, Wu Yi is not suitable for deep needling. Also, avoid this point if there are injuries or bruises in the region. If you’re trying herbal patches for the first time, test them on a small area to rule out skin sensitivity.
Making Wu Yi Part of Your Self-Care Routine
Think of Wu Yi not as a tool for crisis, but as a preventative measure—like staying hydrated or stretching daily. If you’re planning to spend time in cold or windy environments, consider activating Wu Yi. If your chest has been feeling heavy or your breathing a little tight, it might be just the support your body needs. Like a sturdy roof over your home, Wu Yi keeps your inner world balanced and protected.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 8 July 2025
