In ancient times, "Xuanji" (璇璣) referred to an astronomical instrument used for measuring stars. Later, it came to represent the four stars of the Big Dipper's "Dipper Bowl," which are opposite the Purple Palace constellation. The acupoint is located above Zigong (CV19) and functions to ventilate and regulate lung qi, hence the name.

bubble_chart Location

Xuanji (CV21) acupoint
(adapted from "Meridians and Acupoints")

• Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing: "1 cun below Tiantu (CV22), in the central depression";
• Yizong Jinjian: "1 cun above Huagai (CV20)".

bubble_chart Anatomy

• Muscles: the superficial fascia is thin, with almost no fat.
• Nerve: anterior branch of supraclavicular nerve.
• Vessels: anterior perforating branches of the internal thoracic (mammary) artery and vein.

bubble_chart Manipulation

subcutaneous insertion 0.3~0.5 cun. Moxibustion with moxa cone 3 to 5 times, moxibustion with moxa stick for 15 to 20 minutes.

bubble_chart Efficacy

Ventilate lung, benifit pharynx.

• Classical: asthma, cough, chest fullness and pain, difficulty swallowing liquids, throat obstruction and swelling.
• Modern: bronchitis, esophageal spasm, cardia spasm, globus hystericus.

bubble_chart Combinations

• Accumulation in stomach: Xuanji (CV21), Sanli.
• Wheezing and shortness of breath: Xuanji (CV21), Qihai (CV6).
• Esophageal spasm: Tiantu (CV22), Xuanji (CV21), Neiguan (PC6).