Today, let’s explore 23 essential acupuncture points every student should know. If you’ve been following me for a while, you probably know that Stomach 40 is my favourite acupuncture point (YES, I do have a favourite – don’t you?) It’s a staple in my treatments. But many students and new graduates tend to get confused about which points to focus on when it comes to treatments, possibly because there are so many points and multiple uses for each one!

However, these 23 points are special. They are true game changers in clinical practice, delivering fast, effective results that can elevate your treatments. Since I’ve been practicing acupuncture since 2003 and teaching future practitioners since 2008, I’ve seen firsthand how these points can transform outcomes again and again.

In this video, I share the 23 essential acupuncture points every student should know, including their location, primary functions, and how to best use them in clinical practice.

Let’s do this!

Clara
TCM Geek

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23 Essential Acupuncture Points Every Student Should Know

Kidney 1 (KD1) – The Grounding Point

Why I love it: Located on the sole of the foot, Kidney 1 is our most grounding point—it literally connects us to the earth. In clinic, I use it for patients who can’t “turn off” their minds, who feel scattered, or who have trouble sleeping. It’s also amazing for lowering blood pressure.

TCM view: Kidney 1 subdues excess Yang and brings energy downwards. Think of it as an anchor for overactive thoughts, anxiety, or insomnia.

Western view correlation: Stimulating KD1 can calm the nervous system and help regulate blood pressure through parasympathetic activation.

Stomach 40 (ST40) – The Phlegm Transformer

Why I love it: ST40 is one of my “never fail” points. Whether it’s asthma, chronic cough, dizziness, or brain fog, this point helps clear phlegm and dampness. Patients with poor focus or those worried about weight often benefit too.

TCM view: Known as the Luo-Connecting point, it harmonizes the Stomach and Spleen and clears phlegm anywhere in the body—physical or emotional.

Modern take: Many patients notice clearer breathing, reduced nausea, and better mental clarity after treatment.

Liver 3 (LV3) – The Stress Reliever

Why I love it: For tension headaches, PMS mood swings, or frustration, Liver 3 is a must. It smooths Liver Qi and helps when emotions get stuck.

TCM view: LV3 spreads Liver Qi, clears the head, and nourishes the eyes. It’s fantastic for PMS, hypertension, and even eye conditions.

Clinical pearl: Combine LV3 with LI4 (Four Gates) to move Qi powerfully and release stress.

Bladder 40 (BL40) – The Back Pain Specialist

Why I love it: When patients walk in with acute low back pain, BL40 is often the first point I reach for. It also benefits the knees and clears heat from the Blood.

Extra perk: BL40 can treat sudden rashes, vomiting, or diarrhea—conditions where the body is “rebelling” and needs quick regulation.

Gallbladder 34 (GB34) – The Joint & Muscle Champion

Why I love it: Neck stiffness? Shoulder tension? Knee pain? GB34 is your friend. It influences the sinews and joints, making it a top pick for musculoskeletal issues.

TCM view: GB34 benefits tendons, regulates Liver Qi, and helps with digestion and hypertension.

Ren 4 – The Fertility & Vitality Booster

Why I love it: Ren 4 is deeply nourishing. It strengthens Kidney Yin and Yang, making it key for fertility, menstrual regulation, and even digestive weakness.

Safety tip: Never needle deeply on a pregnant patient.

TCM pearl: Ren 4 warms the womb and supports Essence (Jing)—our core vitality.

More Essential Points I Rely On

• Lung 7 (LU7): Releases the exterior, great for colds, head/neck pain, and hormone balance.

• Ren 17 (REN17): Opens the chest, calms anxiety, and helps with palpitations.

• Ren 12 (REN12): Harmonizes the Middle Jiao for bloating, acid reflux, and stomach pain.

• Kidney 3 (KD3): Strengthens Kidney Yin and Yang, good for back pain, sleep issues, and libido.

• Du 14 (DU14): Clears heat, boosts immunity, and supports the spine.

• Bladder 62 (BL62): Calms the mind and treats insomnia.

• Gallbladder 41 (GB41): Balances hormones, eases migraines, and supports menstrual health.

Final Thoughts

Acupuncture is incredible in its versatility—it can calm the mind, regulate hormones, ease pain, and support overall wellness. These points are just some of my personal favourites, but as you know, each patient is unique, and treatment always comes down to proper TCM diagnosis.

What about you? Do you have a go-to acupuncture point you couldn’t practice without? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!

Until next time, keep rocking it using acupuncture.