As summer approaches and temperatures rise, our bodies encounter new challenges, including overheating and heat stroke. Fortunately, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides a holistic approach to managing these risks.
One key acupoint, known as Central Hub (Zhong Chong, PC9), is particularly effective in supporting various bodily functions. This acupoint promotes heart health and plays a crucial role in regulating fevers and cooling the body. Its unique ability to influence such diverse systems makes it a popular choice in acupuncture protocols, especially during hot weather. Zhong Chong is a remarkable point that deserves a place in your summer wellness routine.
Deep Roots and Fast Action
Zhong Chong is first mentioned in the “Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot),” one of Chinese medicine’s foundational texts elaborating on acupuncture and energetic pathways. This acupoint is classified as one of the 12 Jing Well points located on the meridians where qi, or vital energy, flows forcefully, allowing them to expel pathogens or activate the meridian quickly and effectively.Jing Well points are typically found on the fingers and toes. TCM practitioners often use bloodletting at these acupoints to stimulate a sluggish system or to discharge excess heat during emergencies.
In practice, Zhong Chong is utilized for acute, high-intensity conditions such as fevers, febrile diseases, and heatstroke. It is also employed when someone loses consciousness or experiences convulsions. Located on the Pericardium meridian, which influences the heart and connects to the tongue, Zhong Chong is particularly beneficial for aphasia accompanied by tongue stiffness—a common symptom after a stroke or brain injury—or a swollen tongue. In critical situations, TCM practitioners often turn to Zhong Chong as one of the key points to address these issues.
Scientific Insight: Brain Activation Through Zhong Chong
Recent research supports some of the traditional uses of Zhong Chong. One animal study examined the effects of electroacupuncture applied at Zhong Chong and Yong Quan (KI1), an acupoint on the kidney meridian, in rats with vascular dementia, which resulted in memory and attention difficulties. After 28 days of treatment at these two points, the rats showed significant improvements in cognitive performance. Their brainwave patterns, specifically theta signals linked to attention and memory, also returned to normal. The results were comparable to those achieved with the dementia medication Nimodipine.Another study focused on how different acupuncture points affect the autonomic nervous system. When the acupoint Zhong Chong was stimulated, it increased sympathetic nervous activity, the part of the system that activates during alert states. Stimulation led to higher skin conductance and increased blood flow, enhancing mental and physical arousal. In summary, Zhong Chong can activate the body’s internal “wake-up” system more effectively than some nearby acupuncture points.
How to Locate and Stimulate Zhong Chong
Zhong Chong is easy to locate—it’s right at the center of the tip of your middle finger. That’s it. You don’t need a map or a mirror—just your hand.How to Stimulate Zhong Chong
- Finger pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, relax for three seconds, and repeat for one to three minutes.
- Toothpick technique: Use the blunt side of a toothpick or your nail to tap or press Zhong Chong rhythmically. You should feel a sore or tender sensation. This technique is often used in urgent situations or to promote mental clarity.
- Professional care: In severe cases, trained TCM practitioners may use bloodletting—drawing five to 10 drops of blood—followed by a cotton bud or bandage to stop the bleeding.
