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.
Gary Wagman, PhD, LAc
Gary Wagman is the author of Your Yin Yang Body Type – The Korean Tradition of Sasang Medicine. He is also a doctor of psychology and practitioner of Oriental Medicine, living in Portland, Oregon. More information about Dr. Wagman and the Yin Yang Body Types can be found on www.sasangmedicine.com.