Supreme Stream
太溪 Tài Xī · KI-3
About KI-3 Supreme Stream
KI-3 Taixi is the yuan-source point of the Kidney meridian and arguably the most important point for tonifying the Kidney in its entirety -- yin, yang, qi, and essence (jing). The yuan-source point connects directly to an organ's original qi through the triple burner system, and since the Kidney is the root of all yin and yang in the body, tonifying KI-3 has a ripple effect that extends to every other organ system.
The name 'Supreme Stream' indicates the highest, most refined flow of Kidney qi, accessible at this point like a clear mountain stream emerging from deep within the earth. The location between the medial malleolus and the Achilles tendon places it on the inner ankle, the yin side of the body, in a depression that mirrors BL-60 Kunlun on the outer (yang) side. Together, these two points bracket the ankle and represent the Water (Kidney) and Taiyang (Bladder) aspects of the same organ system.
Clinically, KI-3 is used whenever there is evidence of Kidney deficiency -- and since the Kidney declines naturally with age, this encompasses a vast range of conditions. Lower back pain, weak knees, tinnitus, hearing loss, loose teeth, premature graying, frequent urination, night sweats, diminished libido, infertility, and chronic fatigue all fall within its scope. It is one of the few points that tonifies both Kidney yin and Kidney yang, making it appropriate regardless of whether the deficiency manifests with heat signs (yin deficiency) or cold signs (yang deficiency).
How to Find This Point
Find the bony prominence on the inner side of the ankle. The point is in the soft depression directly behind it, between the inner ankle bone and the Achilles tendon -- the mirror image of BL-60 on the outer side.
Technique
Press with the thumb into the depression behind the medial malleolus. Moderate sustained pressure or gentle circular kneading. The pulse of the posterior tibial artery can often be felt here.
Pressure & Duration
Moderate pressure for 2-3 minutes per side.
Benefits
Tonifies the Kidneys (yin and yang), strengthens the lower back and knees, regulates the uterus, benefits the ears, anchors the qi
Indications
Lower back pain, tinnitus, hearing loss, dizziness, insomnia, night sweats, hot flashes, impotence, infertility, frequent urination, ankle pain, sore throat from yin deficiency, toothache from Kidney deficiency
TCM Actions
Tonifies the Kidneys, nourishes Kidney yin, strengthens Kidney yang, benefits jing (essence), strengthens the lumbar region, anchors qi, shu-stream and yuan-source point of the Kidney meridian
Self-Care Use
Press behind the inner ankle bone for lower back weakness, tinnitus, night sweats, insomnia, and deep fatigue. This is the primary Kidney tonification point accessible from the front of the body (BL-23 on the back is the other). Press moderately for 2-3 minutes per side, ideally in the evening. An excellent daily practice for anyone experiencing signs of Kidney deficiency: low back ache, weak knees, poor hearing, premature gray hair, or declining vitality.
Contraindications & Cautions
No major contraindications. Avoid pressing directly on the posterior tibial artery. Use gentle pressure if there is acute medial ankle inflammation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the KI-3 Supreme Stream acupressure point located?
KI-3 Supreme Stream (Tài Xī) is located at: In the depression between the tip of the medial malleolus and the Achilles tendon, level with the tip of the medial malleolus. Find the bony prominence on the inner side of the ankle. The point is in the soft depression directly behind it, between the inner ankle bone and the Achilles tendon -- the mirror image of BL-60 on th
How long should I press KI-3 Supreme Stream?
Apply moderate pressure to KI-3 for 2-3 minutes per side. Press with the thumb into the depression behind the medial malleolus. Moderate sustained pressure or gentle circular kneading. The pulse of the posterior tibial artery can often be felt here.
What are the benefits of stimulating KI-3 Supreme Stream?
Tonifies the Kidneys (yin and yang), strengthens the lower back and knees, regulates the uterus, benefits the ears, anchors the qi
Is it safe to do acupressure on KI-3 at home?
Press behind the inner ankle bone for lower back weakness, tinnitus, night sweats, insomnia, and deep fatigue. This is the primary Kidney tonification point accessible from the front of the body (BL-2 Cautions: No major contraindications. Avoid pressing directly on the posterior tibial artery. Use gentle pressure if there is acute medial ankle inflammation.
Which meridian does KI-3 belong to?
KI-3 Supreme Stream belongs to the Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian, which is associated with the Earth (shu-stream and yuan-source point of Water meridian) element. Its TCM actions include: Tonifies the Kidneys, nourishes Kidney yin, strengthens Kidney yang, benefits jing (essence), strengthens the lumbar region, anchors qi, shu-stream and yuan-source point of the Kidney meridian