Meaning of the name:
Wen refers to Yang Qi (warmth), Liu means circulation. This point is where Yang Qi circulates, hence the name Wenliu (Warm Flow Point) (Zhong Yi Gang Mu – “Outline of Traditional Chinese Medicine”).
Other names (if any): Nizhu, Wenliù, Shatou.
Characteristics:
- Belongs to the Large Intestine channel of Hand Yangming.
- It is the Xi-Cleft point of the Large Intestine channel.
Location:
- 5 cun above Yangxi (LI-5), on the line connecting Yangxi (LI-5) and Quchi (LI-11).
Underlying anatomical structures:
- Supplied by the muscular branch of the radial artery and the cephalic vein.
- Innervated by the posterior antebrachial cutaneous nerve (sensory to the skin) and the deep branch of the radial nerve (motor supply to underlying muscles).
Functions:
Used in cases where the Qi of the Large Intestine channel is obstructed and fails to flow freely. This point has the effect of warming the channel, promoting circulation, and dispersing cold pathogenic factors.
Indications:
- Stomatitis, glossitis, parotitis;
- Frostbite, pain of the back, shoulder, and arm;
- Borborygmus, abdominal pain;
- Mental disorders (tongue thrusting, drooling, inappropriate laughter or speech);
- Throat swelling and obstruction, laryngitis.
Point combinations:
- With Qimen (LR-14) to treat stiff neck due to Shang Han (Cold Damage) (Baizheng).
- With Neiguan (PC-6), Quchi (LI-11), Tongli (HT-5) for swollen tongue and mouth ulcers.
- With Neiting (ST-44) for toothache.
- With Bocan (EX) for epilepsy.
Needling method:
- Acupuncture: Perpendicular insertion 0.5 – 1 cun.
- Moxibustion: Apply for 5 – 10 minutes (in cases of Cold patterns).
