GV 23, known as Upper Star or Shangxing, is a key acupressure and acupuncture point located on the forehead, just above the anterior hairline. It belongs to the Governing Vessel (Du Mai) meridian and is traditionally associated with the regulation of mental focus and sinus clarity.
Top therapeutic uses of GV 23:
- Opens nasal passages
- Clears the mind
- Supports relief from dizziness and frontal headaches
Alternative names: Shangxing (GV 23), DU 23.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Pressure Point Name | Upper Star – GV 23 (Shangxing, DU 23) |
| Body Area | Head |
| Exact Location | 1 finger width above the front hairline, midline |
| Common Uses | Sinus congestion, dizziness, mental clarity |
| Stimulation Technique | Gentle fingertip pressure for 1–2 minutes |
| Contraindications | Avoid with scalp wounds or recent cranial trauma |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
GV 23 is used in both clinical and traditional therapeutic settings to alleviate symptoms such as:
- Frontal sinus pressure and congestion
- Eye fatigue and blurry vision
- Mental fog and dizziness
- Mild vertigo and tension headaches
Energetically, GV 23 is believed to calm excess yang energy and stimulate the brain’s upper centers, making it valuable for restoring clarity and emotional balance.
Location
GV 23 is found on the midline of the forehead, approximately one finger-width above the anterior hairline. To locate it:
- Place your index finger at the center of the forehead where the hairline begins.
- Move upward by one finger-width directly on the midline.
Looking for an easier way to use this point in your wellness routine?
This pressure point is simple to locate and even easier to apply when guided step-by-step. It’s featured in over 70 evidence-based pressure point protocols inside our Pressure Points Guide app. Whether you’re looking to relieve sinus tension, regain mental clarity, or soothe headaches, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app.
How to Stimulate It
- Method: Use your index or middle fingertip.
- Pressure: Apply light, vertical pressure.
- Motion: You may hold steadily or gently rotate in a circular motion.
- Duration: 1 to 2 minutes.
- Frequency: 1–2 times daily, or as needed during acute symptoms.
- Posture: Can be done seated, lying down, or during breathing meditation.
- Pair with: GV 20 (Hundred Convergences) or Yintang for amplified effect.
Benefits and Common Uses
Stimulation of the Upper Star pressure point can yield:
- Physical benefits: Relief from nasal stuffiness, frontal headaches, and eye strain
- Mental benefits: Enhanced focus and cognitive sharpness
- Energetic benefits: Stabilization of excessive mental activity, grounding of yang
In TCM, GV 23 is also indicated for calming internal wind, often associated with tremors or mental agitation.
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
GV 23 lies along the path of the Governing Vessel, a meridian that connects with the brain and spine. Stimulation is believed to:
- Encourage cerebrospinal fluid flow
- Modulate frontal lobe activity, influencing decision-making and concentration
- Support sinus drainage and lymphatic circulation in the head region
Practitioner Insight
I often include GV 23 in routines aimed at reducing overthinking or easing upper head pressure. It’s surprisingly effective when used in tandem with deep breathing and visual focus practices—especially when working with people who carry mental tension in the forehead and eye region.
Safety & Contraindications
- Do not stimulate if the scalp is irritated, sunburned, or healing from recent surgery.
- Use caution in cases of high intracranial pressure or open wounds on the forehead.
- Avoid prolonged pressure if dizziness worsens.
Learn more in our acupressure safety guide and explore other acupressure topics.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
Complementary Points:
Adjunct Techniques:
- Sinus breathing exercises
- Light tapping or brushing over the forehead
- Use of warming tools (moxibustion) under practitioner guidance
More sessions with Upper Star (GV 23) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
Emerging research suggests forehead acupoints, including GV 23, may influence cerebral blood flow and autonomic regulation. Clinical observations support its role in managing frontal tension-type headaches, sinus conditions, and mental fatigue. Further studies are exploring its effects on EEG patterns and neurovascular synchronization during stimulation.