Bleeding Therapy in Traditional Medicine I: 5 Key Acupoints for Healing

 Ancient Wisdom, Modern Curiosity

For thousands of years, healers have used a surprising yet powerful technique—bleeding therapy—to restore balance and promote health. While it may sound alarming to modern ears, this traditional practice is rooted in the idea that releasing a few drops of blood at specific acupoints can help improve Qi flow, reduce excess heat, and quickly ease certain symptoms.

Today, practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) still turn to bleeding therapy for urgent conditions ranging from sore throats to sudden headaches, and even to help with neurological symptoms like numbness or dizziness.

If you’ve ever wondered how this ancient method works—or which points are most effective—here are five important acupoints used in bleeding therapy.

What is Bleeding Therapy in TCM?

In TCM, bloodletting is believed to:

• Improve the circulation of Qi and blood
• Relieve stagnation and reduce pain
• Release heat to help with fever and inflammation
• Support neurological and consciousness-related issues

When done with sterile lancets, it may also serve as a temporary measure in urgent cases before professional medical help is available. 

5 Key Acupoints for Bleeding Therapy

Shaoshang (LU11) – Located on the radial side of the thumb. Used for sore throat, nosebleeds, finger pain, febrile illness, mental disorders, loss of consciousness, and severe cough.

Shangyang (LI1) – Located on the radial side of the index finger. Used for cardiac pain, irritability, loss of consciousness, tongue stiffness, fever, heat stroke, infantile convulsions, and feverish palms.

Guanchong (TB1) – Located on the ulnar side of the ring finger. Used for headache, eye redness, sore throat, tongue stiffness, fever, and irritability.

Shaochong (HT9) – Located on the radial side of the little finger. Used for chest pain, cardiac pain, mental disorders, fever, and loss of consciousness.

Shaoze (SI1) – Located on the ulnar side of the little finger. Used for fever, loss of consciousness, sore throat, and corneal disorders.

Important Note: Bleeding therapy should be performed carefully, if necessary, only by trained practitioners. Improper use can cause injury or infection. Always consult a licensed TCM or healthcare professional before trying any form of bloodletting.

Precautions: Who Should Avoid Bleeding Therapy

Bleeding therapy is not recommended for individuals with bleeding disorders such as hemophilia, severe anemia, or low platelet counts, as even small amounts of blood loss can be harmful. It should also be avoided during pregnancy, in cases of uncontrolled diabetes, or when taking blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin, aspirin). Do not perform bleeding therapy on areas with active skin infections or if you are very weak, dehydrated, or recovering from major illness or surgery.

Always consult a licensed healthcare or TCM professional before attempting bleeding therapy to ensure it is safe for your specific health condition! 

Have you even tried bleeding therapy or seen it practiced in Traditional Chinese Medicine? Which acupoint surprised you the most?Share your thoughts in the comments below, and if you found this guide helpful, share it with friends who are curious about TCM. 

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