Jiexi (ST 41): The Foot Acupoint for Clearing Heat and Resolving Dampness

Jiexi (ST 41) is an important acupoint on the Stomach Meridian of Foot Yangming, located in the depression where shoelaces are typically tied on the dorsum of the foot. This acupoint is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to regulate the Spleen, transform dampness, and clear Stomach heat.

Jiexi is found at the center of the transverse crease on the dorsum of the foot, at the junction of the leg and the foot. Specifically, it lies in the depression between the extensor digitorum longus tendon and the extensor hallucis longus tendon, level with the ankle joint.

Jiexi primarily regulates the Spleen and Stomach, promotes the transformation and transportation of dampness, and clears heat from the Stomach channel. It is often needled or pressed to relieve local pain in the ankle, reduce swelling in the face and lower limbs, and address heat signs in the head and face.

In clinical practice, Jiexi is combined with other points like Zusanli (ST 36) for digestive issues, or with Taichong (LV 3) for headaches due to rising Liver Yang.

References

Huangdi Neijing Lingshu (Spiritual Pivot) describes the Stomach Meridian pathway and the location of acupoints on the dorsum of the foot. The classic text Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion) specifically records Jiexi (ST 41) and its indications for headache, ankle pain, and facial edema. Later compilations such as the Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica) also reference the point in relation to clearing heat and resolving dampness.