When I teach Zang-Fu Theory, my students always ask, “Where does the Pericardium fit in?” It’s a great question—after all, we have 5 Zang organs but 6 Fu organs. The San Jiao is clearly defined, but the Pericardium often seems left out. That’s because in TCM, the Pericardium is considered an extension of the Heart—not any less important, just more of its energetic bodyguard.

Its functions include protecting the Heart from external Heat or Fire that could disturb the Mind, safeguarding our emotional well-being, circulating blood to the Heart, and even influencing our relationships. PC 7 is one of the best acupuncture points for emotional healing, especially from heartbreak. The Pericardium also connects with the Ming Men Fire (Gate of Vitality), helping us stay open-minded and connected to others.

The Pericardium Channel has 9 essential acupuncture points. It is used mostly for emotional health and mental health, heart-related issues, chest and upper jiao conditions, and gynecological support. Functions and locations are all explained in detail in the video below.

Let me know what you think and keep rocking it with acupuncture! 😍
Clara
TCM Geek

PS: If you want more, check out my “All About the TCM Pericardium” post.

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The Pericardium Channel and its 9 Acupuncture Points

 

~~~~~ ⏰ Class Times ⏰ ~~~~~

0:00 min Intro on the Pericardium Channel/meridian & the TCM Pericardium functions in TCM
2:44 min the Pericardium channel/meridian pathway (Hand Jue Yin)
6:30 min PC 1 to PC 9 acupuncture points locations
7:44 min PC 1 to PC 9 acupuncture points functions

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

What Is the Pericardium in TCM?

The pericardium may be lesser-known compared to the five zang (yin) organs, but in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), its role is vital—especially when it comes to protecting the heart, regulating emotions, and supporting qi and blood flow. This protective envelope around the heart acts as a buffer against both external pathogens and emotional stress, making it an important focus in acupuncture treatments.

Although the San Jiao (Triple Burner) is included in the list of full organs while the pericardium is often omitted, the pericardium meridian and its nine acupuncture points are incredibly valuable in clinical practice.

In TCM, the Pericardium (Xin Bao) is often referred to as the “Heart Protector.” It is closely connected to the heart both energetically and physiologically. From shielding the heart from pathogenic factors to fostering emotional resilience, the pericardium plays several key roles.

Top 3 Functions of the Pericardium

1. Heart Protection

As the body’s first line of defense for the heart, the pericardium protects against external pathogens, energetic invasions, and intense emotional stress such as anxiety, grief, or emotional trauma.

2. Regulation of Qi and Blood Flow

Much like the Liver meridian, the pericardium helps ensure the smooth and harmonious flow of qi and blood, especially in the chest and Upper Jiao.

3. Emotional Stability

It supports emotional health, making it essential for patients dealing with relationship issues, emotional disconnection, or stress-induced disorders.

The Pericardium Meridian Pathway

This channel begins in the chest, flows through the pericardium organ, and travels along the arm, ending at the middle finger. Its simplicity—having only one branch—makes it straightforward and powerful to use in acupuncture protocols.

Pericardium Meridian Acupuncture Points: PC1 to PC9

Each acupuncture point along the pericardium channel offers unique therapeutic effects. Here’s a breakdown:

Pericardium 1 to 3

  • 1: Treats chest congestion, chronic cough, and breast disorders.

  • 2: Relieves chest pain and local arm tension.

  • 3: A He-Sea and Water point, ideal for clearing heat, heart pain, and digestive issues.

Pericardium 4 to 9

  • 4 (Xi-Cleft point): Effective for acute cardiac pain, blood stagnation, and emotional trauma.

  • 5: Aids in mental clarity, emotional regulation, and mania-related symptoms.

  • 6 (Luo-Connecting point): A go-to for anxiety, nausea, insomnia, and digestive complaints.

  • 7 (Shu-Stream and Yuan-Source point): One of the Ghost points, often used for heartache, insomnia, and emotional distress.

  • 8: Treats mental restlessness, mouth ulcers, and paranoia.

  • 9: Revives consciousness, helps with stroke symptoms, tongue stiffness, and heart-related emergencies.

Understanding the energetic and emotional functions of each pericardium acupuncture point helps practitioners address a wide range of issues—from chest pain and emotional trauma to digestive disorders and sleep disturbances.

Incorporating the pericardium meridian into acupuncture treatment plans enhances not just physical heart health but also emotional harmony, making it a cornerstone for treating modern-day stress and anxiety.