Location

on the anterior chest wall, in the 7th intercostal space, directly below the nipple, 4 cun lateral to the midline. A cun is the distance between the 2nd and 3rd knuckles, or the distance at the widest part of the thumb.

Needling

transverse insertion under the skin along the intercostal space.

caution deep or perpendicular insertion may puncture the lung (pneumothorax).

moxa is OK

Actions

Benefits the gallbladder and spreads liver Q
Restrains rebelious Qi and harmonizes the middle jiao
Resolves damp-heat

Signs and Symptoms

pain in the hypochondriac region, vomiting, acid regurgitation, hiccup, jaundice, mastitis.

Commentary

Riyue is the front Mu point of the Gallbladder. A front Mu point is where the Qi of a particular point gathers and collects. To emphasize the actions of these points on the organ rather than the channel Riyue is only 1 of 3 Mu points that is located on its own channel.

The characters for this point 'Sun' & 'Moon', when combined form a new character 'Ming' which means 'clear, intelligent, or understanding.'

The Gallbladder is historically associated with Will. Chronic indecisiveness is seen as a clear sign of Gallbladder deficiency.

Riyue is the point of choice to treat all diseases of the Gallbladder including, cholecystitis (inflammation of the Gallbladder wall), gallstones, and hepatitis.

Gallbladder disharmony may result from longstanding emotional disharmony which gives rise to stagnant Qi in the Liver. This in turn disrupts the flow of Qi in its related channel, the Gallbladder. Fullness of the chest and pain in the lateral costal region, frequent sighing, and heat sensation in the lower abdomen are signs.

Gallbladder disharmony may result from deficiency in the Stomach/Spleen failing to transport sufficient nutrients leading to accumulation of dampness and heat. Bile does not flow properly, seeping into the surrounding tissue causing Jaundice.

Finally, Gallbladder Qi may invade the stomach causing vomiting, acid reflux, hiccup, and pain in the epigastrium.

Riyue is indicated for all these conditions.