Today is special as we embark on an exciting journey into a new meridian! The Triple Burner, or Triple Energizer (San Jiao), is one of the most enigmatic concepts from the perspective of Western medicine, as it does not correspond to a specific organ.
However, don’t let this lack of recognition deter you. Tap into the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and learn valuable insights into its significance and diverse benefits. Passage Hub (Guan Chong, TE1) is a great place to start.
Bridging Ancient Wisdom With Science
From the TCM perspective, a healthy body has a balanced flow of qi or vital energy. Different types of qi flow through various meridians at varying speeds and in different directions. This complex system requires a conductor or traffic controller to manage the energy flow, which is exactly the role of the Triple Energizer.The Triple Energizer is responsible for regulating the flow of fluids and qi throughout the body. It consists of three burners or energizers. Generally speaking, the upper burner governs the head and shoulders, the middle burner regulates the internal organs and torso, and the lower burner oversees digestion, the lower abdominal organs, and the lower limbs.
The first acupoint on the Triple Energizer meridian is Guan Chong (TE1), first documented in the “Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot),” a foundational text in TCM that focuses on acupuncture therapy. It is classified as a jing-well point—a special type of acupoint that serves as the entryway for energy into the Triple Energizer meridian. Its name, “Guan Chong,” reflects both its location and function: “Guan” often means a gate or passage, while “Chong” implies movement.
This acupoint is crucial for clearing excess heat in the body, which can manifest as pharyngitis (throat inflammation), fever, facial redness, and red eyes. TCM’s holistic approach also connects excessive heat to irritability, so stimulating Guan Chong can help maintain proper energy circulation by dispelling pathogenic heat and supporting internal emotional harmony.
Modern Research on Acupoints
Recent studies indicate that acupoints are distinct physiological locations linked to the body’s internal functions. One study measured skin temperatures at 12 jing-well points on 26 healthy volunteers, revealing that yin-meridian jing-well points had significantly higher temperatures than yang-meridian points. Additionally, upper limb jing-well points were warmer than lower limb points, and right-side yang-meridian points were warmer than left-side yang-meridian points. These findings suggest that acupoints are distinct points on the body with unique physiological properties measurable by modern science.Further research using the bi-digital O-ring test imaging technique identified acupuncture points and meridians linked to internal organs. Acupuncture points were found to occupy small areas in three-dimensional space, typically 6 to 12 millimeters in diameter. Additionally, neurotransmitters and hormones such as serotonin and norepinephrine were present along these meridians. The study also highlighted the hormonal significance of the Triple Energizer or San Jiao meridian, linking it to testosterone in males and estrogen, particularly estriol and estradiol, in females. This suggests that the Triple Energizer meridian may play a role in regulating hormonal functions.
How to Locate and Stimulate Guan Chong
Guan Chong is located at the outer lower corner of the nail on the ring finger. To locate it, gently feel around for a tender spot. Because the skin and fat layers around the nails are thin, stimulation can feel intense, so start with moderate pressure.
To activate the acupoint:
- Press firmly for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes on each side. Using the blunt side of a toothpick can help precisely target the point.
- Massage in circular motions with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes per side.
- Advanced techniques such as acupuncture, bloodletting, or moxibustion, a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort, should be performed by a trained TCM professional.
Words of Caution
Avoid stimulating Guan Chong if you have injuries in the area. Bloodletting is often documented as an effective technique, particularly in emergencies or during sudden symptom surges. However, it should never be attempted at home due to the risk of infections and injuries.Closing Thoughts on Self-Care
Guan Chong is an easily accessible acupoint that is simple to stimulate. As the entry point of the Triple Energizer meridian, it holds significant power in clearing heat and alleviating irritability. Consider adding it to your self-care routine. Think of it as your secret weapon against day-to-day frustrations and annoyances. Traditional Chinese medicine provides time-honored tools for well-being—take advantage of them and take charge of your health!TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.
Copy
