Location

on the midline of the sternum, in a depression level with the fourth inter costal space.

* note; this point can be located midway between the nipples on the midline in men.

Needling

insert subcutaneously upwards or downwards along the channel. Insertion may be towards either breast for breast disorders.

Moxa is OK

Actions

Regulates Qi and unbinds the chest
descends rebellious Qi of the Lung and Stomach
benefits gathering Qi
benefits the breasts

Indications

Asthma, pain in the chest, fullness of the chest, palpitation, insufficient lactation, hiccup, difficulty swallowing, pain in the body

Commentary:

Shanzhong is both the Front Mu point of the Pericardium and the
Hui-Meeting point of Qi of the entire body. The term 'Mu' means to collect or gather. The front Mu points are where the Qi of the various organs gathers and collects. A Mu point then, would have direct effect on the particular organ. In this case, since the Pericardium is the muscle that protects the heart. This is the point of choice to treat physical problems with the Heart.

As well, as the gathering point of Qi in the body, it is well used in conjunction with other points to 'move Qi' to treat stagnation of Qi (pain) in any part of the body.

As a local point, located directly in the centre of the chest, it also has a strong effect on the lungs and the chest as a whole.

Since the effect of needling Shanzhong is to strongly move Qi downwards it also has an effect on rebellious Qi of the Stomach (vomiting, regurgitation, etc.).

Located midway between the breasts it is also an important point for treating any kind of breast disorder and in particular insufficient lactation.

Finally, one interesting side-effect of needling this point is that some people seem to become more sociable.