Triple Energizer meridian

TE-21 (Ěrmén, 耳门) — Ear Gate

Meridian
Triple Energizer (TE)
Anatomical view
head
Point classification
Regular point of the Triple Energizer channel at the ear.
Depth reference
0.5–1.0 cun perpendicular with the mouth slightly open
Moxibustion
Direct scarring moxibustion should be avoided; other moxa use was not established in checked sources
Reference aliases
TE21; Ermen; 耳门; Ear Gate

Anatomical location

In the depression anterior to the supratragic notch and behind the mandibular condyle, located with the mouth slightly open.

Traditional actions

Benefits hearing; clears heat from the ear; relieves jaw and facial pain.

Recorded indications

Primary: Tinnitus; reduced hearing; middle-ear inflammation.

Secondary: Toothache.

How to read this reference

AcuAtlas separates anatomical location, traditional classification, recorded actions, indications, insertion-depth references, and moxibustion notes because these fields answer different study questions. The location statement is the orientation anchor. The classification and actions describe traditional reference categories, while indications summarize how checked educational sources associate the point with established teaching material. They are not a recommendation to select or stimulate the point.

Depth and moxibustion entries are reproduced as bounded reference notes rather than procedural instructions. Individual anatomy, technique, angle, clinical setting, and local professional standards can change what is appropriate. Review the cited documents and supervised training material before using any technical field. The normalized map coordinate is included only to place the point on the matching AcuAtlas body plate; it is not a substitute for palpation or anatomical assessment.

Sources

References displayed on this page were recorded with the point dataset.

  1. WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region TE21, p. 168
  2. Clean Needle Technique Manual, 7th Edition Appendix C, SJ16–SJ23, pp. 240–242
  3. Acupuncture.com Acupuncture Point Reference San Jiao 21; functions, indications and needling

Frequently asked questions

Where is TE-21 located?

In the depression anterior to the supratragic notch and behind the mandibular condyle, located with the mouth slightly open.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for TE-21?

Benefits hearing; clears heat from the ear; relieves jaw and facial pain. The dataset lists these primary indications: Tinnitus; reduced hearing; middle-ear inflammation. Secondary indications are recorded as: Toothache.

Is TE-21 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify TE-21 as one of its five mandatory pregnancy-caution points. That is not a declaration of safety. Pregnancy-related point selection requires individualized assessment by a qualified clinician.