Three Yin Intersection
三阴交 Sān Yīn Jiāo · SP-6
About SP-6 Three Yin Intersection
SP-6 Sanyinjiao is one of the most versatile and frequently used acupuncture points in clinical practice, renowned for its ability to simultaneously influence three of the body's most important organ systems. As its name 'Three Yin Intersection' indicates, this is the point where the three leg yin meridians -- Spleen, Liver, and Kidney -- cross and converge. This triple intersection gives SP-6 an unparalleled range of therapeutic action spanning digestion, blood production, hormonal regulation, emotional balance, and fluid metabolism.
The Spleen governs digestion and the production of qi and blood. The Liver governs the smooth flow of qi and stores the blood. The Kidney governs reproduction, growth, and the body's fundamental yin and yang reserves. By stimulating the point where all three channels intersect, SP-6 can tonify, regulate, or harmonize any of these systems. This is why it appears in treatment protocols for such diverse conditions as menstrual disorders, insomnia, digestive weakness, urinary dysfunction, infertility, menopausal symptoms, and chronic fatigue.
In gynecological practice, SP-6 is considered the single most important point for women's health. It nourishes the blood that is central to the menstrual cycle, smooths the Liver qi that governs the cycle's regularity, and tonifies the Kidney essence that underlies reproductive capacity. For menstrual cramps, pressing SP-6 firmly during an episode can produce significant pain relief. Its strong descending and blood-moving action is precisely why it must be avoided during pregnancy -- the same qualities that relieve menstrual stagnation can stimulate uterine contractions.
How to Find This Point
Place four fingers horizontally above the inner ankle bone (medial malleolus), with the little finger on the ankle bone. The point is at the level of the index finger, just behind the inner edge of the shin bone. Press into the soft tissue behind the bone.
Technique
Press with the thumb behind the shin bone, angling slightly toward the bone. Sustained, firm pressure or deep circular kneading. The point frequently produces a deep, spreading ache or sensation traveling up the leg.
Pressure & Duration
Moderate to firm pressure for 2-3 minutes per side.
Benefits
Tonifies the Spleen, nourishes blood and yin, regulates menstruation, calms the spirit, promotes labor, benefits urination, resolves dampness
Indications
Menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, infertility, insomnia, digestive weakness, fatigue, urinary disorders, edema, skin conditions, anxiety, menopausal symptoms
TCM Actions
Tonifies the Spleen and Stomach, resolves dampness, nourishes blood and yin, regulates menstruation, promotes labor, calms the spirit, smooths the flow of Liver qi, tonifies the Kidneys, meeting point of the three leg yin meridians (Spleen, Liver, Kidney)
Self-Care Use
One of the most powerful self-care points for women's health. Press behind the shin bone, four finger-widths above the inner ankle. Excellent for menstrual cramps (press firmly during pain), PMS symptoms, bloating, insomnia, and general fatigue. Also valuable for men for digestive weakness, insomnia, and overall vitality. Press 2-3 minutes per side. DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY.
Contraindications & Cautions
CONTRAINDICATED DURING PREGNANCY -- strong descending and labor-promoting action. Avoid in women with heavy menstrual bleeding unless specifically indicated. Use caution in patients on blood-thinning medication.
Related Points
Explore Traditional Healing
Acupressure works with your body's natural energy pathways. Discover more about the meridian system and other traditional healing modalities to deepen your practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the SP-6 Three Yin Intersection acupressure point located?
SP-6 Three Yin Intersection (Sān Yīn Jiāo) is located at: On the medial aspect of the lower leg, 3 cun superior to the prominence of the medial malleolus, on the posterior border of the medial aspect of the tibia. Place four fingers horizontally above the inner ankle bone (medial malleolus), with the little finger on the ankle bone. The point is at the level of the index finger, just behind the inner edge of th
How long should I press SP-6 Three Yin Intersection?
Apply moderate to firm pressure to SP-6 for 2-3 minutes per side. Press with the thumb behind the shin bone, angling slightly toward the bone. Sustained, firm pressure or deep circular kneading. The point frequently produces a deep, spreading ache or sensation trave
What are the benefits of stimulating SP-6 Three Yin Intersection?
Tonifies the Spleen, nourishes blood and yin, regulates menstruation, calms the spirit, promotes labor, benefits urination, resolves dampness
Is it safe to do acupressure on SP-6 at home?
One of the most powerful self-care points for women's health. Press behind the shin bone, four finger-widths above the inner ankle. Excellent for menstrual cramps (press firmly during pain), PMS sympt Cautions: CONTRAINDICATED DURING PREGNANCY -- strong descending and labor-promoting action. Avoid in women with heavy menstrual bleeding unless specifically ind
Which meridian does SP-6 belong to?
SP-6 Three Yin Intersection belongs to the Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian, which is associated with the Earth element. Its TCM actions include: Tonifies the Spleen and Stomach, resolves dampness, nourishes blood and yin, regulates menstruation, promotes labor, calms the spirit, smooths the flow of Liver qi, tonifies the Kidneys, meeting point