Analysis of the Application Characteristics of the Wangu(SI4)in Ancient and Modern Literature
XUE Jingjing
YANG Xuguang
ZHOU Lili
Abstract：Objective This study systematically reviews the literature on Wangu(SI4)across historical and contemporary periods,analyzing its single-point applications,therapeutic combinations,meridian associations,and treatment modalities to enhance evidence-based clinical practice.Methods The ancient literature was sourced from 1156 texts included in the 5th edition of the Chinese Medical Classics,while modern literature was systematically searched across CNKI,Wanfang,and VIP databases,with rigorous screening criteria applied to establish an analyzable dataset.Results A total of 42 ancient texts were identified,comprising 279 entries related to Wangu(SI4).It was used to treat 29 diseases,with the most common being Bi syndrome(arthralgia pattern),Huangdan(jaundice),Nüebing(malaria),Jingfeng(infantile convulsions),Toutong(headache),Taiyang cold syndrome,Diankuang(psychosis),Fanmanjing(irritability-fullness-fright),Zhongfeng(stroke),and Xietong(hypochondriac pain).Point combinations extended the therapeutic scope to 35 conditions,demonstrating predominance in treating Bi syndrome,Huangdan,Zhongfeng,Taiyang cold syndrome,Toutong,Liulei syndrome(epiphora),Diankuang,Erming-erlóng(Tinnitus and hearing loss),and Nüebing(ranked by frequency).A total of 157 acupoints were used in combinations,with frequent pairings including Yanggu(SI5),Hegu(LI4),and Quchi(LI11),primarily associated with the Bladder,Large Intestine,and Small Intestine meridians.Four treatment methods were identified,focusing on the details of the procedures.In modern literature,141 articles were included,with eight diseases treated using the single point,predominantly scapular pain,acute cervical spondylitis,and coronary heart disease.Combined treatments addressed 35 diseases,with leading conditions being cervical spondylosis,rheumatoid arthritis,stroke,post-stroke shoulder-hand syndrome,acute joint sprain,insomnia,pain syndromes,facial neuritis,obesity,and shoulder periarthritis.A total of 169 acupoints were used in combinations,top-frequency pairings were Hegu(LI4),Waiguan(TE5),and Quchi(LI11),mainly associated with the Large Intestine,Sanjiao,and Stomach meridians.A variety of 16 modern treatment methods were identified,but many articles lacked detailed descriptions of procedures.Conclusion In ancient literature,Wangu(SI4)demonstrated extensive therapeutic indications both as a single point and in combination,with its applications rooted in the acupoint's unique properties and the functional characteristics of its affiliated meridian,emphasizing meridian-based treatment principles and adherence to etiological-pathological mechanisms.In contrast,modern literature documents fewer indications for Wangu(SI4)as a solitary point.While combination therapies address a broader range of conditions,the overall application frequency has decreased significantly compared to ancient records,with contemporary usage focusing more on local disorders and pathologies along the meridian pathway.
Keywords：Wangu(SI4)Literature researchApplication rulesData mining
Publication Date：2026-01-28
Online Publishing Date：2026-01-30(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：6( 184-189 )