NAME OF THE POINT: Yúnmén (Yunmen / LU-2)
NAME & MEANING
- Chinese (Pinyin): Yúnmén (云门)
- Literal meaning: “Gate of the Clouds.”
In classical TCM theory and ancient medical texts, “clouds” (yún) symbolize the Qi of the Lung (as vapor / moisture). “Gate” (mén) indicates an opening. Thus, Yunmen represents the “gate” through which Lung Qi rises and disperses, functioning as a point that opens and regulates Lung Qi.
CHARACTERISTICS
- The second point of the Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian (Shǒu Tàiyīn Fèijīng).
LOCATION
Located below the lateral end of the clavicle, in the infraclavicular fossa, at the lateral depression of the pectoral triangle, 6 cun lateral to the anterior midline.
Method of locating:
Place the hand over the lateral end of the clavicle; palpate the depression beneath the outer clavicular head. The slight concave hollow between the pectoralis major and deltoid muscles marks Yunmen (LU-2).
INDICATIONS / THERAPEUTIC FUNCTIONS
- Disperses Lung Qi and descends rebellious Lung Qi, clears Lung Heat; indicated for cough, asthma, dyspnea, or any upward-rebellious Lung Qi pattern.
- Opens and unblocks the chest, allowing Lung Qi to descend smoothly; reduces
sensations of chest fullness, chest oppression, and shortness of breath.
- Relieves pain of the shoulder, upper back, and chest due to its anatomical relation to the pectoral region, shoulder girdle muscles, and cervical–shoulder nerves. Useful for neck–shoulder stiffness, limited shoulder mobility, and pain of the scapular region.
- When combined with the “Neck-Seven Acupoint” group, may be beneficial in
reducing numbness and cold sensations in the hands.
NEEDLING METHOD
- Oblique insertion (lateral oblique / transverse-oblique) directed laterally outward,
depth 0.5–1 cun.
Caution / Warning
Because the point is located close to the clavicle, thoracic cage, and apex of the lung, the needle must be angled strictly laterally, inserted superficially, and never directed medially or deeply toward the thoracic cavity to avoid risk of pneumothorax.
