TE-18 - Spasm Vessel
瘈脉 - qì mài
Point Region: Head
TE-18 Qimai, meaning 'Spasm Vessel,' is a point that soothes the ears and calms convulsions, a 'cradle of auditory balance.' Located behind the ear, it is a key point for addressing a wide range of issues that are caused by 'spasms' or stagnation in the head and neck. Its name, 'Spasm Vessel,' alludes to its ability to bring a sense of calm and order to the body's entire system.
Think of Qimai as a point that helps to 'calm the storm' in your head. It's invaluable for addressing issues like a headache, dizziness, and a feeling of a 'blocked' ear. By soothing the ears and calming convulsions, it helps to restore a sense of ease and freedom.
By soothing the ears and calming convulsions, TE-18 helps to restore a sense of balance and inner peace. It's a point that reminds us that our true power comes from a calm and unburdened body.
Location & How to Find
Anatomical Location: In the depression on the lateral aspect of the skull, above and behind the ear
How to Locate:
- Find the top of your ear where it attaches to your head
- Move your finger up and back from this point
- Find a small depression on the side of your skull
- This hollow above and behind the ear is TE-18
Primary Functions
Auditory System
- Treats ear infections and inflammation
- Reduces tinnitus and hearing disorders
- Improves inner ear circulation
- Balances auditory nerve function
Nervous System
- Treats headaches behind the ears
- Reduces nerve pain and inflammation
- Calms cranial nerve irritation
- Improves brain circulation
Musculoskeletal System
- Relieves temporal muscle tension
- Treats TMJ and jaw disorders
- Reduces muscle spasms in head
- Improves cranial mobility
Endocrine & Metabolic System
- Regulates triple energizer head function
- Balances energy circulation
- Supports metabolic processes
- Harmonizes nervous system coordination
Emotional & Mental
- Calms mental restlessness
- Reduces anxiety and fear
- Promotes emotional stability
- Enhances mental grounding
Circulatory System
- Improves circulation to temporal region
- Reduces vascular tension
- Strengthens qi and blood flow
- Supports lymphatic drainage
Clinical Applications
Primary Indications
- Tinnitus
- Vomiting
- Pediatric epilepsy
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Ear ringing
- Nausea
- Childhood seizures
- Loose stools
- Head pain
Related Health Concerns
Common Conditions:
Related Acupoints
Select a point to learn about its location, primary functions, clinical applications, and protocols.
TE-18 Protocols
N/A
Important Precautions
- Active seizure disorder without medical supervision
- Recent head trauma
- Severe mental health conditions
- Acute ear infections