Location

on the midline of the lower back, in the depression below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertbra.

Needling

perpendicular insertion 0.5 to 1.0 inch

moxa is OK . Moxa is contraindicated in some texts to those under 20 years old.

Actions

Clears heat
Regulates the Du channel
Tonifies the kidneys
Benefits the lumbar spine

Signs and Symptoms

stiffness of the back, lumbago, impotence, nocturnal emission, irregular menstruation, diarrhea, indigestion, leukorrhea.

Commentary

Mingmen's main action is to regulate heat in the body both interiorly and exteriorly. If heat is excessive, it is drained. If the body is cold it is warmed.

Because of its ability to strongly, drain heat, Mingmen is classically indicated for the treatment of heat in the body 'like fire.'

Because of its ability to strongly warm the body, Mingmen is classcially indicated for treatment of deficiency in the body due to cold, very common among men of advancing age.

The Du Channel (also called the Governing Vessel), is also known as the 'Sea of Yang'. This is because it is located on the midline of the back or the Yang side of the body. As well, all the Yang Channels of the body criss cross and meet with the Du channel at various points. As well, the Du channel runs through the vertex of the head, the topmost or most Yang point on the body. Mingmen, then is seen as a point that can strongly fortify Yang.

Mingmen is located directly betwen the Kidney Shu points and these three points are often needled or Moxa'd together, especially in cases of lumbar pain or discomfort due to Kidney deficiency.

Mingmen is closely associated with 'Ministerial Fire' which is the Qi that warms one's essence. One's essence is seen as the energetic basis for life and hence the name 'Gate of Life.'

Mingmen is indicated for such symptoms of Kidney deficiency as shaking of the head, tinnitus and dizziness. Mingmen is not only able to stimulate the Kidneys but is also able to open the channel to assist the ascent of Kidney Qi up the spine and into the brain. The Du channel goes directly into the brain.

Mingmen's strongest action, though is on the lumbar region, where it is located and is a point of choice for all lumbar pain, discomfort or stiffness.

As well, Mingmen is indicated for all kinds of sexual and urinary difficulties arising from Kidney deficiency.

Finally, in Qi Gong practice, Mingmen is a primary Gate in the Small Heavenly Circle, a Qi strengthening mediation/exercise that follows the path taken by the Ren and Du channels. It is said, this is one of the gates presenting major difficulties to most practitioners.