Case Study of A Patient with Depression and Other SymptomsPower of Horary Points, Set II: UB40, LI5, ST43, SI2, and GB44
By David Lee, L.Ac.
Acupuncture simultaneously benefits both the mind and body by restoring balance to the brain and improving physiological functions. Horary acupuncture points (천부혈 天符穴) are particularly effective in treating multiple diseases at once. “Horary” refers to using the same element for both the acupuncture point and meridian.
Case Study: Rochelle H., Female, Age 68
Rochelle H. sought to discontinue the use of Lexapro, a benzodiazepine prescribed for her chronic depression, as it was ineffective and causing adverse effects.
Despite taking 10mg of the medication, Rochelle experienced persistent low mood, lethargy, and a lack of motivation. She felt groggy and sleepy, and her eyes were drooping. The medication increased her appetite, resulting in a 30-pound weight gain over six months. Additionally, she had pulled muscles in her left upper back, causing radiating pain down her left arm. She also suffered from vertigo when turning her head to the left or lying down.
Rochelle did not notice any improvement after the first acupuncture treatment, which targeted points ST36, SI5, GB41, UB66, and LI1. However, she experienced dramatic improvement with the second treatment, which used points UB40, LI5, ST43, SI2, and GB44. Acupuncture was done only on one side of the body, as the points may vary on the other side.
Significant progress was evident every week, with just two acupuncture sessions per week. Although her symptoms fluctuated, they improved in intensity, frequency, and duration. By the 14th visit, most of her symptoms had disappeared. The outcome significantly enhanced her overall well-being, positively impacting her family life and business.
Benefits of Horary Points
Acupuncture is a holistic therapy that addresses multiple conditions simultaneously, with Horary points being particularly effective. This explains why Rochelle experienced significant improvement in multiple symptoms.
The benefits of Horary points extend beyond their specific actions to encompass all conditions treatable by acupuncture. Regardless of the disease, these points can be stimulated in any person without needing a differential diagnosis. For example, if Rochelle had other issues, such as hot flashes or pain in different areas, the same acupuncture points would have helped her. Horary points are constitutional, meaning people are inherently born with these optimal spots, and any future issues can be addressed using these points.
Known and Newly Discovered Horary Points
Until now, the known Horary points were:
- LI1 (Large Intestine 1) – Metal point on Metal meridian.
- UB66 (Urinary Bladder 66) – Water point on Water meridian.
- GB41 (Gall Bladder 41) – Wood point on Wood meridian.
- SI5 (Small Intestine 5) – Fire point on Fire meridian.
- ST36 (Stomach 36) – Earth point on Earth meridian.
These points exist in 70% of the population. However, for the remaining 30%, additional Horary points have been identified:
- UB40 (Urinary Bladder 40) – Water point on Water meridian.
- LI5 (Large Intestine 5) – Metal point on Metal meridian.
- ST43 (Stomach 43) – Earth point on Earth meridian.
- SI2 (Small Intestine 2) – Fire point on Fire meridian.
- GB44 (Gall Bladder 44) – Wood point on Wood meridian.
Comprehensive Treatment
Combining these two sets of Horary points, we now have a comprehensive treatment approach that can effectively address the needs of at least 80% of patients who respond well to these points.
