HE-1 ā Jiquan, meaning “Highest Spring,” is the first point on the Heart meridian in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Located in the center of the axilla (armpit), this pressure point is traditionally used to regulate heart function, disperse heat, and calm the spirit. Itās also known to address local issues such as swelling and pain in the armpit region.
Although rarely used in acupressure due to its deeply sensitive location near the axillary artery, HE-1 plays a foundational role in the energetic mapping of the Heart meridian. Itās occasionally referred to simply as Jiquan or “Heart 1” in clinical texts.
For quick reference:
- Top Benefit: Calms the spirit and regulates heart activity
- Primary Location: Center of the armpit
Summary Table
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Pressure Point Name | HE-1 ā Jiquan (Highest Spring) |
Body Area | Armpit |
Exact Location | Center of the axilla, on the medial side of the axillary artery |
Common Uses | Palpitations, cardiac discomfort, anxiety, armpit swelling or pain |
Stimulation Technique | Gentle fingertip pressure for 30ā60 seconds with arm slightly raised |
Contraindications | Avoid in pregnancy and in individuals with sensitive vascular conditions |
Clinical Significance & Associated Conditions
Jiquan (HE-1) addresses both emotional and physical disturbances associated with the Heart meridian. In TCM, it is indicated for:
- Emotional and neurological imbalances: palpitations, anxiety, fear, restlessness
- Cardiovascular symptoms: cardiac pain, arrhythmias
- Musculoskeletal issues: pain or tightness in the axillary region, postural constriction
- Energetic blockages: disrupted qi flow within the Heart and Lung meridians
From a neurological viewpoint, the area is innervated by the brachial plexus, making stimulation delicate but potentially impactful when performed correctly.
Location
HE-1 is located in the center of the armpit (axilla), slightly anterior and medial to the axillary artery. To locate it:
- Slightly raise the arm to expose the hollow of the armpit.
- With gentle palpation, feel for the soft depression near the uppermost, innermost part of the axilla.
- Avoid direct pressure on the artery; stay to the medial side.
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. Itās featured in over 70 evidence-based pressure point protocols inside our Pressure Points Guide app. Whether youāre looking to reduce heart-related anxiety, improve emotional balance, or relieve upper body tension, the app guides you through every session with visuals and audio. Click here to download our app: https://pressurepoints.onelink.me/ktJy/04h2kzxy
How to Stimulate It
- Posture: Sit or stand with the arm gently raised and relaxed.
- Tool: Use your index or middle fingertip.
- Pressure: Apply light, steady pressure (never deep or aggressive).
- Duration: 30 to 60 seconds per side.
- Frequency: 1ā2 times daily, or during moments of emotional unrest.
- Pairing: Often paired with HT-7 (Spirit Gate) for anxiety and emotional support.
Benefits and Common Uses
Physical Benefits
- Reduces cardiac pain and palpitations
- Alleviates swelling or pain in the armpit region
- Promotes healthy circulation in the upper thoracic area
Emotional and Energetic Benefits
- Calms the spirit (shen)
- Disperses Heart Fire
- Helps regulate the energetic start of the Heart channel
Physiological Functions & Mechanisms
HE-1, as the gateway to the Heart meridian, is believed to initiate the downward flow of Heart qi. Its stimulation:
- Opens the meridian pathway to support heart rhythm regulation
- Balances the Shen (spirit), easing mental agitation
- Influences the autonomic nervous system, potentially calming sympathetic overdrive
Its proximity to lymphatic tissue and the vascular-nerve bundle in the axilla suggests a role in detoxification and emotional-physical interface zones.
Practitioner Insight
Although I rarely use HE-1 in general acupressure routines because of its vulnerability, Iāve found it helpful in highly specific cases, especially with clients experiencing deep emotional suppression or chest tension that doesnāt resolve with more distal points. Itās always approached mindfully, with full attention to breath and body awareness.
Safety & Contraindications
- Avoid stimulation during pregnancy
- Do not use on individuals with axillary tumors, severe varicosities, or recent cardiac incidents
- Use only gentle fingertip pressure due to proximity to the axillary artery and lymph nodes
Explore more in our acupressure safety guide and general acupressure resources.
As always, listen to your body and stop if discomfort arises.
Related Points & Techniques
- HT-7 ā Spirit Gate: for calming the mind and balancing the Heart
- CV 17 ā Sea of Tranquility: regulates chest qi and alleviates emotional pressure
- PC 6 ā Inner Gate: harmonizes the Heart and relieves anxiety
- Adjunct techniques: gentle breathing, mindfulness meditation, or flower essence therapy for emotional release
More sessions with Jiquan (Highest Spring) (HE-1) in our Pressure Points Guide App
Scientific Perspective
Scientific literature does not commonly explore HE-1 directly, but studies on Heart meridian acupoints suggest that Heart-related acupressure can influence autonomic nervous system activity and heart rate variability. These findings support the traditional use of HE-1 for heart rhythm regulation and emotional calming effects PubMed.