
Congratulations on reaching Foot Portal Yin (Zu Qiao Yin, GB44), the final point of the gallbladder meridian! Located at the tip of the fourth toe, it is not just the endpoint of this meridian—it serves as a gateway to relief for various ailments, especially those affecting the head. Another unique characteristic of Jing-well acupoints is that the energy at these points is considered volatile and dynamic, making them ideal for urgent conditions such as acute headaches or fainting. In emergency cases or for a more intense effect, TCM practitioners use bloodletting, a technique where the skin at the acupoint is pricked with a needle, and a small amount of blood is released to help rapidly restore the body’s balance.
How to Locate Zu Qiao Yin and Tap Into Its Benefits Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for two to three minutes on each foot. In case of limited mobility, use a blunt object like the back of a chopstick or the rounded end of a toothpick to apply steady pressure.
Massage in circular motions using your thumb or index finger for one to three minutes per side. For advanced techniques, acupuncture or moxibustion— a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort —can be applied by a trained professional. In urgent cases, bloodletting is also performed under professional supervision.
Important Precautions Furthermore, its capacity to clear the origin of the meridian makes it an excellent preventive tool. The best part is that it’s easy to locate and stimulate. Consider incorporating Zu Qiao Yin into your acupressure practice, and observe how your body improves over time.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity..