Some people fear carbs as though they’re toxic. Others can’t survive without bread, pasta, or rice. Then there are the selective types who swear by millet or quinoa. Regardless of your dietary stance, there’s no denying that grains are deeply woven into our everyday meals.
An acupoint on the chest, Storeroom (Ku Fang, ST14), is closely related to how the body processes grains—and its benefits extend even further.
The Ancient Principles Behind Ku Fang
First described in the classic “Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing” (“The A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion”), Ku Fang aligns perfectly with the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) understanding of the stomach. In TCM, the stomach isn’t just a place where food is mashed up. It’s a vital holding zone where the food temporarily rests before the spleen does the real work—transforming it into qi (vital energy) and blood. Ku Fang gets its name from being the point that reflects the body’s “grain storage” and energetically supports the transformation process.
That’s only half the story. In TCM, the physical location of a point also dictates its broader applications. Ku Fang sits right over the upper chest, which means it can influence both the respiratory system and digestive function, particularly when there’s tightness, coughing, or even more serious signs, such as blood-streaked sputum.
How Ku Fang Can Help
People turn to Ku Fang in two main scenarios. First, it’s a frequent part of self-care routines focused on digestion, particularly for improving stomach qi and helping your body process grains and carbs more efficiently.
Second, it’s valuable for chest-related issues. Because of its proximity to the lungs and chest cavity, Ku Fang is often stimulated when someone experiences fullness or discomfort in the chest or is struggling with coughing—especially stubborn or painful coughing.
What Modern Studies Say About It
Modern medicine has begun exploring how stimulation of Ku Fang can support healing through improved circulation. In one study, researchers worked with 18 patients suffering from chronic, non-healing foot ulcers due to diabetes or peripheral artery disease. Using a special device that measured blood flow, they applied acupuncture along the chest line from Ku Fang to its neighboring acupoint Wu Yi (ST15).
The results were impressive. Even after treating only one side, most microcirculatory markers improved. After bilateral treatment, all the circulation markers improved. The results support the idea that Ku Fang is physiologically active and potentially beneficial for tissue repair and circulation.
How to Locate and Stimulate Ku Fang
The classical method involves measuring four cun, a unit of measurement equal to the width of the thumb at the knuckle, from the body’s midline to find the location in the first intercostal space (the gap between the first and second ribs). But there’s a shortcut: if you trace a vertical line upward from your nipple until you reach the soft gap between your top two ribs, you’re basically on the spot. Press gently around that area—if you find a tender or sore point, that’s Ku Fang.
How to Stimulate Ku Fang
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Professional methods: Acupuncture, cupping, or moxibustion can also be applied—but only by a trained TCM practitioner. Given the acupoint’s close proximity to the lungs, improper technique can be dangerous.
Precautions
Because of its location, deep needling of Ku Fang is strictly contraindicated. Always go to a trained professional if you’re considering acupuncture. Avoid the point entirely if you have any injuries in the region. If you have sensitive skin, opt for herbal patches made with gentle, natural ingredients.
Final Thoughts on Supporting Your Stomach
Some health trends recommend avoiding grains entirely. Others suggest only certain ones. Whatever you choose to eat, your stomach still has to process it. Stimulating Ku Fang is a simple, no-cost way to support digestion and clear stuck energy in your chest. Consider stimulating Ku Fang a preventive act of self-care—a few mindful moments to invest in long-term well-being.
TCM expert Shihhsiang Hung reviewed this article for accuracy and clarity.
Originally published in Epoch Times on 8 July 2025
