Inner Pass
内关 Nèi Guān · PC-6
About PC-6 Inner Pass
PC-6 Neiguan is one of the most researched and clinically validated acupuncture points in the world, with extensive evidence supporting its anti-nausea and anti-emetic effects. The point is the luo-connecting point of the Pericardium meridian and the confluent point of the Yin Wei Mai (Yin Linking Vessel), giving it broad influence over the chest, Heart, Stomach, and emotional state.
The name 'Inner Pass' refers to the point's role as a gateway to the interior of the body -- pressing here opens access to the chest and upper abdomen, the domain of the Heart and Stomach. The Pericardium, in TCM, serves as the Heart's protector and representative, handling the emotional and physical impacts that might otherwise disturb the Heart directly. Neiguan's location on the Pericardium channel gives it this protective, buffering quality: it calms anxiety without sedation, eases chest tightness without suppressing Heart function, and settles the Stomach without affecting appetite.
The anti-nausea action of PC-6 has been the subject of over 40 randomized controlled trials, examining its effects on postoperative nausea, chemotherapy-induced nausea, pregnancy-related nausea, and motion sickness. The cumulative evidence is strong enough that acupressure at PC-6 is now recommended by several mainstream medical guidelines as a complementary intervention for nausea management. Sea-Band wristbands, which apply sustained pressure to this point, are widely available in pharmacies worldwide.
How to Find This Point
Hold the forearm palm-up and flex the wrist slightly. Two prominent tendons will appear in the center of the inner wrist. Measure two thumb-widths above the wrist crease, between these two tendons. If only one tendon is visible (some people lack the palmaris longus), the point is just to the thumb side of the single visible tendon.
Technique
Press firmly with the thumb between the two tendons, perpendicular to the forearm. The point responds well to sustained firm pressure and often produces a deep ache or sensation radiating into the hand. Wristbands that press this point (sea-bands) are commercially available for nausea.
Pressure & Duration
Firm pressure for 2-3 minutes per side.
Benefits
Regulates Heart qi, calms the spirit, harmonizes the Stomach, relieves nausea, opens the chest, relieves pain, opens the Yin Linking Vessel
Indications
Nausea, vomiting, motion sickness, morning sickness, palpitations, chest pain, anxiety, insomnia, hiccup, epigastric pain, wrist pain, carpal tunnel symptoms
TCM Actions
Regulates Heart qi, calms the spirit, regulates qi, suppresses pain, harmonizes the Stomach, relieves nausea, opens the chest, luo-connecting point of the Pericardium meridian, confluent point of the Yin Wei Mai (Yin Linking Vessel)
Self-Care Use
One of the most practical self-care acupressure points. Press firmly between the forearm tendons, two thumb-widths above the wrist crease for nausea of any kind -- motion sickness, morning sickness, post-surgical nausea, or stomach upset. Also excellent for anxiety, chest tightness, and palpitations. Press 2-3 minutes per side. Wristband-style acupressure devices work on this point.
Contraindications & Cautions
Generally very safe. Use moderate pressure in individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome -- it may help symptoms but avoid aggravating the median nerve. Safe during pregnancy for nausea relief.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the PC-6 Inner Pass acupressure point located?
PC-6 Inner Pass (Nèi Guān) is located at: On the palmar aspect of the forearm, 2 cun proximal to the transverse wrist crease, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis. Hold the forearm palm-up and flex the wrist slightly. Two prominent tendons will appear in the center of the inner wrist. Measure two thumb-widths above the wrist crease, between these two tendons. If
How long should I press PC-6 Inner Pass?
Apply firm pressure to PC-6 for 2-3 minutes per side. Press firmly with the thumb between the two tendons, perpendicular to the forearm. The point responds well to sustained firm pressure and often produces a deep ache or sensation radiating into the han
What are the benefits of stimulating PC-6 Inner Pass?
Regulates Heart qi, calms the spirit, harmonizes the Stomach, relieves nausea, opens the chest, relieves pain, opens the Yin Linking Vessel
Is it safe to do acupressure on PC-6 at home?
One of the most practical self-care acupressure points. Press firmly between the forearm tendons, two thumb-widths above the wrist crease for nausea of any kind -- motion sickness, morning sickness, p Cautions: Generally very safe. Use moderate pressure in individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome -- it may help symptoms but avoid aggravating the median nerve.
Which meridian does PC-6 belong to?
PC-6 Inner Pass belongs to the Hand Jueyin Pericardium Meridian, which is associated with the Fire element. Its TCM actions include: Regulates Heart qi, calms the spirit, regulates qi, suppresses pain, harmonizes the Stomach, relieves nausea, opens the chest, luo-connecting point of the Pericardium meridian, confluent point of the