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.
David Seaman, DC, MS, DABCN
Dr. David Seaman is the author of Clinical Nutrition for Pain, Inflammation and Tissue Healing and his latest book, The DeFlame Diet. For more information including an extended biography, a printable version of this article and a link to previous articles, please visit his columnist page.