HT3 (Shaohai / Lesser Sea) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
HT3 Shaohai is a he-sea; water point of the Heart channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | HT3 — Shaohai (Lesser Sea) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Heart — Hand Shaoyin |
| Classification | He-Sea; Water |
| Region | Anteromedial elbow |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | At the front-and-inner elbow, just anterior to the medial humeral epicondyle, at cubital-crease level. With the elbow flexed, use the midpoint between the medial crease end and the epicondyle. |
Location of HT3 Shaohai
At the front-and-inner elbow, just anterior to the medial humeral epicondyle, at cubital-crease level. With the elbow flexed, use the midpoint between the medial crease end and the epicondyle.
Landmark sequence
- Flex and support the elbow.
- Identify the medial epicondyle and the medial end of the cubital crease.
- Palpate the midpoint between these landmarks.
- Confirm an anterior position; do not move behind the epicondyle.
Where a B-cun measurement is given, use the patient’s proportional body measurement. It is not a fixed centimetre distance or a universal number of the practitioner’s finger breadths. Confirm the relevant landmarks by palpation before deciding on a technique.
Distinguishing nearby points
The WHO landmark uses the medial crease end and medial epicondyle. The biceps tendon is not the second endpoint for this midpoint.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Clears Heat and transforms Phlegm
- Calms the Shen
- Benefits the arm and activates the channel
Traditional applications
Traditionally considered for medial elbow or arm discomfort, restricted movement and selected Heart-channel Heat or Shen presentations. Local neurological findings require independent assessment.
These descriptions express traditional theory. They are not claims that this individual point has been proven to prevent or cure a medical condition. A symptom or channel label alone is insufficient to select a treatment.
Planning a point combination
Consider the treatment principle, local versus distal selection and the patient’s complete presentation. Related Project Lotus guides for comparison include HT7, LI11. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
The ulnar nerve passes behind the medial epicondyle. Do not mistake its groove for HT3, and avoid provoking electric pain or numbness in the ring and little fingers.
- Inspect the skin and assess local tissue, circulation and sensation. Do not needle through infected, ulcerated, inflamed or otherwise unsuitable tissue.
- Review relevant surgery, injuries, implants, bleeding risk, medication, pregnancy and previous adverse reactions.
- Use sterile single-use needles, appropriate infection control and safe sharps disposal. Obtain informed consent and document the treatment.
- Choose angle, depth and stimulation from anatomical assessment and accredited training. This guide gives no universal insertion depth. Stop and reassess unexpected sharp pain, neurological symptoms or a concerning response.
When medical assessment takes priority
New hand weakness, persistent numbness or progressive loss of grip requires medical assessment. A red swollen elbow with fever should be assessed promptly.
Moxibustion
Moxa is not an automatic addition. Consider the traditional pattern, local anatomy and the practitioner’s training. Where heat is appropriate, assess sensation, skin condition, ventilation and the patient’s ability to report discomfort; supervise continuously and prevent burns.
Research note
Evidence concerning an acupuncture treatment or a multi-point protocol cannot be assigned automatically to this point alone. This guide does not claim an independently established clinical effect for HT3. Traditional functions and clinical evidence should be discussed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is this point bilateral?
Yes. The surface landmarks apply on both sides. Treatment laterality depends on assessment and the chosen clinical strategy.
Can the image replace palpation?
No. The image shows the landmark relationship schematically. Body proportions, tendon visibility and tissue depth vary, so trained examination remains essential.
Is this a self-needling guide?
No. It is an educational reference for qualified practitioners and does not replace professional training or medical assessment.
Continue exploring Project Lotus
Browse our Acupuncture Point Guides and professional acupuncture needles.
Professional note: Educational material for qualified acupuncture practitioners. Individual assessment, consent, safe technique and appropriate referral remain the practitioner’s responsibility.
References: WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations, updated reprint 2009 (entry HT3); CEIMEC point atlas (cross-check; WHO takes precedence where descriptions differ); Joel Penner, American Dragon: traditional point reference; NCCIH: acupuncture evidence and safety. Checked 5 October 2026.
