04/07/2026
The Spleen Meridian, also known as the Foot Taiyin Spleen Channel, is one of the 12 primary meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this meridian is closely associated with digestion, nutrient absorption, circulation of fluids, muscle tone, energy production, and emotional balance. It is believed to help transform food into usable energy and to support the body’s ability to maintain strength, focus, and overall vitality.
The pathway of the Spleen Meridian begins at the inside of the big toe, travels along the inner side of the foot and leg, passes the knee and thigh, continues into the lower abdomen and chest, and ends near the side of the rib cage. Because of this pathway, the meridian is often used in traditional practice for digestive complaints, lower body tension, fatigue, abdominal bloating, and reproductive support.
Common signs that practitioners may associate with imbalance in the Spleen Meridian include:
Feeling tired or heavy in the body
Poor digestion or bloating after eating
Loose stools
Water retention or swelling
Weak muscles or aching limbs
Difficulty concentrating
Excess worry or overthinking
Menstrual irregularities
Important Acupoints Along the Spleen Meridian
SP1 (Yinbai)
📍 Located at the inner corner of the big toe, near the nail.
This is the first point on the Spleen Meridian and is traditionally used to support circulation, digestive weakness, and excessive menstrual bleeding. In classical practice, it is also associated with helping calm an overactive mind and reducing persistent worry or mental restlessness.
SP3 (Taibai)
📍 Found on the inner side of the foot, just behind the base of the big toe.
This point is often considered one of the most important for strengthening the Spleen Meridian. It is traditionally used when there is fatigue, sluggish digestion, bloating after meals, or a feeling of heaviness in the body. Many practitioners view it as a foundational point for improving energy and digestive function.
SP4 (Gongsun)
📍 Located slightly behind and below the base of the big toe.
SP4 (Gongsun) is traditionally used for abdominal discomfort, nausea, bloating, and digestive imbalance. Because it also connects with the chest and stomach area in traditional theory, it is sometimes used for emotional tension that affects digestion.
SP6 (Sanyinjiao)
📍 Located about four finger-widths above the inner ankle, just behind the shin bone.
This is one of the most widely used acupoints in Traditional Chinese Medicine because it is where the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians meet. It is traditionally used to support digestion, reduce bloating, improve sleep, calm stress, and support menstrual and reproductive health. Because of its broad influence, it is often chosen for overall balance and relaxation. Strong stimulation should be avoided during pregnancy unless supervised by a trained practitioner.
SP9 (Yinlingquan)
📍 Found just below the inner side of the knee, in a small depression under the shin bone.
This point is traditionally associated with moving excess fluids and reducing heaviness in the body. It is often used for swelling, water retention, digestive sluggishness, and a heavy sensation in the legs. In traditional practice, it may also be used when bloating and fatigue are accompanied by dampness or sluggish circulation.
SP10 (Xuehai)
📍 Located above the inner side of the knee, in the lower thigh.
Known as the “Sea of Blood,” this point is traditionally associated with circulation and skin health. It is often used for menstrual concerns, itching, skin irritation, and improving the healthy movement of blood and fluids through the body.
SP15 (Daheng)
📍 Located on the abdomen, level with the navel and several finger-widths to the side.
This point is traditionally used to support intestinal movement and relieve abdominal bloating, constipation, or sluggish digestion. It is often chosen when there is a sense of fullness or stagnation in the abdomen.
SP21 (Dabao)
📍 Found on the side of the rib cage beneath the armpit area.
This is the final point of the Spleen Meridian and is traditionally said to influence the whole body. It is often used when there is generalized body soreness, weakness, fatigue, or a sense of poor circulation affecting the muscles and limbs.
Traditional Functions of the Spleen Meridian
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Spleen Meridian is believed to:
Support digestion and absorption of nutrients
Help move and regulate body fluids
Strengthen muscles and limbs
Promote healthy circulation
Support reproductive and menstrual balance
Improve mental clarity and concentration
Help reduce excessive worry and overthinking
Common Pairings
The Spleen Meridian is often paired with the Stomach Meridian because together they are considered the main channels involved in digestion and energy production. For example:
SP6 (Sanyinjiao) + ST36 (Zusanli) are commonly used together for energy, digestion, and fatigue.
SP9 (Yinlingquan) + CV12 (Zhongwan) are often used to support bloating and sluggish digestion.
SP10 (Xuehai) + LV3 (Taichong) are traditionally paired for circulation and emotional tension.
💡 Health Insight: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a strong and balanced Spleen Meridian is believed to support energy, digestion, stable mood, healthy muscles, and clear thinking. Gentle acupressure, mindful eating, good sleep, hydration, and regular movement are often recommended to help support this meridian naturally.
