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GV4 (Mingmen) – Moxibustion Acupoint Reference
Chinese Name: Mingmen (命门)
Meridian: Governing Vessel (Du)
Location: Below the L2 spinous process, directly opposite BL23
Moxa Duration: 10-20 min | Distance: 2-3 cm
Evidence Level: Moderate
Location
GV4 is located on the midline of the lower back, in the depression below the L2 spinous process, at approximately waist level directly opposite BL23.
Clinical Indications for Moxibustion
- Lower back pain: Chronic LBP, kidney deficiency pattern in TCM
- Fatigue and vitality: Adrenal fatigue, general debility, low energy
- Immune deficiency: Frequent colds, weakened constitution
- Cold extremities: Poor circulation in hands and feet
Evidence Summary
A 2019 clinical trial found GV4 moxibustion improved lumbar spine function scores (Japanese Orthopedic Association scale) by 35% over 4 weeks in chronic low back pain patients. The warming effect of moxa on GV4 is believed to strengthen the body’s yang energy according to TCM theory.
Related Articles
References
- Liu T, et al. GV4 moxibustion in chronic low back pain: a clinical trial. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2019;32(4):655-662. PubMed
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