On April 1, 2026, China implemented a landmark national standard: Classification and Determination of TCM Constitution. Although designated as a recommended rather than mandatory standard, it represents a major step in modernizing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) by converting traditional constitution theory into a clear, measurable and clinically practical framework. By clarifying the relationship between constitution, disease, and pattern differentiation, the standard strengthens professional credibility, supports research, and enhances patient-centered treatment.
Carly Druck, LAc
Carly Druck is a classical Chinese acupuncturist who studied under Jeffry Yuen. She attained a Master of Science in Acupuncture from the Swedish Institute of Health Services in 2009, and practices in Edison, N.J. She welcomes feedback to this article via email at CDhealing@gmail.com.