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.
Liliane Papin, PhD, DOM, LAc
Dr. Liliane Papin is founder of Kwan Yin Medicine. She is also a part-time teacher of Chinese medicine and clinic supervisor at Daoist Traditions College, where she regularly teaches food therapy.