Triple Energizer meridian

TE-3 (Zhōngzhǔ, 中渚) — Central Islet

Meridian
Triple Energizer (TE)
Anatomical view
posterior
Point classification
Shu-stream point of the Triple Energizer channel.
Depth reference
0.3–0.5 cun perpendicular
Moxibustion
Not established in checked sources
Reference aliases
TE3; Zhongzhu; 中渚; Central Islet

Anatomical location

On the back of the hand, between the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones in the depression proximal to the fourth metacarpophalangeal joint.

Traditional actions

Clears channel heat; benefits the ears and eyes; relieves pain along the channel.

Recorded indications

Primary: Tinnitus; reduced hearing; headache; red eyes; sore throat.

Secondary: Scapular pain; difficulty extending the fingers; leg pain.

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 TE3, p. 159
  2. Acupuncture.com Acupuncture Point Reference San Jiao 3; classification, functions, indications and needling

Frequently asked questions

Where is TE-3 located?

On the back of the hand, between the fourth and fifth metacarpal bones in the depression proximal to the fourth metacarpophalangeal joint.

What reference actions and indications are recorded for TE-3?

Clears channel heat; benefits the ears and eyes; relieves pain along the channel. The dataset lists these primary indications: Tinnitus; reduced hearing; headache; red eyes; sore throat. Secondary indications are recorded as: Scapular pain; difficulty extending the fingers; leg pain.

Is TE-3 safe during pregnancy?

This dataset does not identify TE-3 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.