TE - Triple Energizer Meridian
手少阳三焦经 - Shǒu Shàoyáng Sānjiāo Jīng
In TCM theory, a channel (meridian) links an internal organ system with a line of points on the surface of the body.
In TCM, the Triple Energizer channel is paired with the Pericardium channel. The Triple Energizer is a TCM idea rather than a single organ: it divides the body into three burners (upper, middle and lower) and describes how fluids and Qi move between them.
Meridian Pathway & Flow
Direction
From the hand to the head (TE-1 to TE-23)
Pathway
- Starts: TE-1, at the corner of the ring fingernail on the little-finger side
- Hand and arm: Across the back of the hand between the ring and little fingers, then up the back of the forearm and upper arm to the shoulder
- Neck and head: Up the side of the neck and around behind the ear to the temple
- Ends: TE-23, in the hollow at the outer end of the eyebrow
- Next channel (TCM theory): Links to the Gallbladder channel at GB-1 beside the outer corner of the eye
Traditional Organ-Clock Time
9–11 PM
Traditional Functions (TCM)
The Triple Energizer in TCM theory
- Coordinates the three burners (upper, middle and lower)
- Moves fluids through the body
- Is linked with the ears and hearing
- Is linked with the side of the head, the neck and the shoulder along its course
Essential Acupoints
Select a point to see its location, how to find it, and its traditional uses.
Traditional Applications
In TCM, points on this channel are traditionally used for
- Tinnitus
- Headache at the side of the head
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Elbow, forearm and wrist pain
- Jaw tension
TE Routines
Triple Energizer Channel Routine (5 minutes)
- Sit comfortably with shoulders relaxed
- Press TE-5 for 30 seconds on each arm
- Press TE-14 for 30 seconds on each side while gently rolling the shoulder
- Finish with light pressure on TE-17 for 30 seconds on each side
All TE Points
Select a point to see its location, how to find it, and its traditional uses.
Precautions
Ear
- Press TE-17 and TE-21 only lightly and from outside; never press into the ear canal. Stop if you feel dizzy or tinnitus gets worse