The Thirteen Ghost Points of Sun Si-Miao Guide
Introduction
The Thirteen Ghost Points were developed by Sun Si-Miao, a famous Chinese physician of the Tang Dynasty, for the treatment of mental illness, epilepsy, and spirit-related disorders. These points are commonly used in acupuncture to clear heat, calm the spirit, and regulate qi circulation.
Key Points
These points are traditionally used for psycho-emotional disorders, epilepsy, and manic behavior.
They function by clearing phlegm, dispersing wind, and calming shen (spirit).
They are often combined in treatments for neurological conditions, PTSD, and severe anxiety.
List of the Thirteen Ghost Points
| Point | Meridian | Function |
|---|---|---|
| DU-26 (Renzhong) | Governing Vessel | Revives consciousness, calms spirit |
| LU-11 (Shaoshang) | Lung | Clears heat, opens sensory orifices |
| SP-1 (Yinbai) | Spleen | Stops bleeding, calms the mind |
| PC-7 (Daling) | Pericardium | Clears heart fire, regulates emotions |
| BL-62 (Shenmai) | Bladder | Treats epilepsy, calms agitation |
| DU-16 (Fengfu) | Governing Vessel | Clears wind, treats neurological disorders |
| ST-6 (Jiache) | Stomach | Relieves jaw tension, regulates facial qi |
| LI-11 (Quchi) | Large Intestine | Clears heat, reduces inflammation |
| REN-1 (Huiyin) | Conception Vessel | Rescues yang collapse, treats loss of consciousness |
| DU-23 (Shangxing) | Governing Vessel | Clears the mind, improves focus |
| RN-24 (Chengjiang) | Conception Vessel | Regulates the tongue, clears phlegm |
| PC-8 (Laogong) | Pericardium | Clears excess fire, cools the blood |
| DU-1 (Changqiang) | Governing Vessel | Opens the orifices, treats epilepsy |
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Functions and Clinical Applications
1. Treating Psycho-Emotional Disorders
These points are commonly used for severe anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and epilepsy.
Example: DU-26 (Renzhong) is used for reviving consciousness and calming agitation.
2. Clearing Phlegm and Heat from the Heart
Ghost Points are believed to clear pathogenic heat and phlegm misting the mind.
Example: PC-7 (Daling) treats heart fire, restlessness, and manic episodes.
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3. Regulating Qi Circulation and Wind Disorders
These points help with neurological and nervous system imbalances.
Example: BL-62 (Shenmai) is effective for epileptic seizures and neurological disorders.
4. Supporting Speech and Facial Functions
Used for conditions affecting speech, throat, and tongue movement.
Example: REN-24 (Chengjiang) benefits speech clarity and treats facial paralysis.
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Treatment Strategies Using the Ghost Points
For Severe Anxiety and PTSD: Use PC-7 + DU-26 to calm the spirit and revive consciousness.
For Epilepsy: Combine DU-16 + BL-62 to regulate wind and clear neurological blockages.
For Heat and Fire Symptoms: Apply PC-8 + LI-11 to cool the body and regulate emotions.
Conclusion
The Thirteen Ghost Points of Sun Si-Miao remain some of the most powerful acupuncture points for mental and neurological health. These points help regulate spirit, qi, and consciousness, making them essential for treating severe psycho-emotional and neurological disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why are they called Ghost Points?
The name relates to ancient Chinese medicine concepts where these points were believed to expel ghost-like influences affecting mental health.
Q: How often should these points be used?
For chronic conditions, they can be used regularly, but treatment plans should be tailored to the patient's response.
Q: Can these points be combined with other acupuncture treatments?
Yes! Many practitioners combine them with Shen-calming points, Back Shu points, and Yuan-Source points for deeper healing.
Sources
Deadman, P. (2001). A Manual of Acupuncture. Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications.
Maciocia, G. (2015). The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text for Acupuncturists. Churchill Livingstone.
Kendall, D. E. (2002). The Dao of Chinese Medicine: Understanding an Ancient Healing Art. Oxford University Press.