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.
Lauri Elizabeth, MAc, LAc
Lauri Elizabeth is a board-certified acupuncturist, certified Alexander Technique teacher, and adjunct faculty member at National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM). She graduated from NUNM in 2015 with a Master of Acupuncture (MAc) degree.