Xuehai (SP10) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

What is Xueh Sea?

Xueh Sea (血海) is an important acupoint on the Spleen Meridian. As its name suggests—”sea of blood”—this acupoint is involved in blood production and circulation. It is particularly effective for improving conditions related to women’s menstrual cycles and also helps with skin health and immune system strengthening. In traditional Chinese medicine, Xueh Sea is considered a key point for qi and blood circulation and is used to treat various conditions.

How to Find the Exact Location

Reference Point: Start at the inner upper edge (medial superior border) of the kneecap.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sit upright and slightly bend your right knee
2. Find the highest inner edge (medial superior border) of your kneecap with your finger
3. Move straight up 2 cun (approximately 6cm) from that point
4. Find the prominence of the large inner thigh muscle (vastus medialis) at this location—this is Xueh Sea

Verification Method: When you press the correct location, you should feel soreness or slight discomfort.

Acupressure Technique

Basic Acupressure Method:

1. Sit comfortably with the leg being treated extended
2. Use your thumb tip to locate Xueh Sea precisely
3. Apply pressure slowly in a vertical direction and maintain the pressure for 3–5 seconds
4. Slowly release the pressure and rest for 2–3 seconds
5. Repeat this motion 10–15 times

Pressure Adjustment: Start with light pressure and gradually increase it. The ideal sensation is a “pleasant pain.”

Note: Maintaining consistent pressure is more important than applying strong pressure.

Key Benefits

• Menstrual Cramp Relief: Promotes blood circulation to the uterus, improving menstrual cramps and irregular menstruation
• Improved Skin Health: Increased blood circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the skin, effectively improving acne, freckles, and other conditions
• Allergy Symptom Relief: Strengthens immune function to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis, hives, and other allergies
• Knee Pain Relief: Improves local blood circulation to reduce knee pain and inflammation
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Improvement: Alleviates emotional changes and physical symptoms caused by hormonal imbalances

When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

Optimal Timing: Apply acupressure once or twice daily starting one week before menstruation through the menstrual period for best results.

Recommended Time of Day: Evening acupressure promotes better sleep and improves your condition the next day.

Good Situations: You can apply acupressure anytime when you have skin problems, experience allergy symptoms, or feel knee tightness.

Precautions

Contraindications:

• Avoid areas with acute inflammation or wounds
• Consult a doctor before using this technique if you are pregnant
• Be careful not to apply excessive force, as it may cause bruising

Post-Acupressure Care:

• Avoid cold air for at least 30 minutes after acupressure and keep warm
• Avoid strenuous activity for 30 minutes after acupressure
• Drink plenty of water to support body circulation