In the rich tapestry of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), every organ is linked to a specific taste. For the spleen, that taste is sweet. Sweet refers to foods like white rice, white flour, and honey, in addition to refined sugar. However, today, our diets are overloaded with sugar, and our bodies feel the impact.
That’s where Di Ji (Earth Pivot, SP8) comes in. Located on the inside of the shin, this point is more relevant than ever in helping the body cope with modern dietary habits.
A Deep Reservoir of Healing Energy
Di Ji was first recorded in the classical text “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing” (“The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion”). What makes this point particularly noteworthy is that it is a Xi-Cleft point—a location where qi and blood pool together. These types of points are powerful tools for addressing acute conditions. When it comes to the spleen, in TCM theory, Di Ji is responsible for circulating the blood produced by the liver. That makes it especially helpful for painful blood-related conditions, such as menstrual cramps, fibroids, and even internal bleeding.Sugar, Dampness, and the Spleen Connection
Di Ji’s other important use is associated with digestion. Along with moving the blood, the spleen’s job is also to carry nutrients around the body. Excess sweetness—especially in the form of refined sugar and coupled with oils and dairy—can lead to excessive dampness, a state of internal imbalance. Dampness can contribute to conditions like diabetes and inflammation of the pancreas. Di Ji is often included in protocols to boost the body’s natural ability to combat these conditions. However, consistency is key. The benefits of stimulating this acupoint build over time, not overnight.Modern Studies Catch Up
Recent research echoes what TCM has long maintained about Di Ji’s role in managing blood-related conditions. One study compared the temperature differences of specific acupoints in women with primary dysmenorrhea and healthy subjects. Using infrared imaging, researchers found that during the postmenstrual phase, Di Ji showed higher temperature differences in patients. This suggests the point becomes sensitized depending on the hormonal changes in people with dysmenorrhea, pointing to its relevance in treating related symptoms.Another study tested Di Ji’s performance in fertility-related treatments. In a randomized clinical trial involving women with blocked fallopian tubes undergoing in vitro fertilization, Di Ji was one of several acupoints targeted using transcutaneous electrical stimulation. While egg and embryo quality didn’t differ across groups, the group that received alternating 2/100Hz stimulation showed higher pregnancy, implantation, and live birth rates.
Researchers also observed higher levels of the neurotransmitter neuropeptide Y in this group—a possible marker of hormonal balance and reproductive readiness. Di Ji’s inclusion in the protocol supports its role in blood and hormonal regulation.
How to Locate and Stimulate Di Ji
Finding Di Ji is simple with the right guidance. Start by locating the bony bump at the bottom of the inner side of your ankle. Slide your fingers upward along the inner shin bone until you reach a tender dip near the knee joint—that is Yin Ling Quan (SP9), another acupoint on the Spleen meridian. From there, measure four finger widths downward along the same line. You should feel another dip that may be sore to the touch. That’s Di Ji.To activate the acupoint:
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patches: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy with dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
Precautions
Avoid this acupoint if you have any injuries in the area. When using herbal patches, avoid those containing aggressive artificial ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.One Acupoint, Multiple Uses
Even if menstrual pain isn’t relevant to you, Di Ji still deserves attention. In a world plagued with sugar and inflammation, we need tools that are simple, effective, and side-effect-free. Di Ji offers just that. Whether you’re managing chronic blood sugar concerns or just want to give your body a break after a sugar binge, this acupoint is an easy and accessible way to support your health.TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
