A TCM practitioner spent 45 minutes asking about my preferences, symptoms, and habits. Then she showed me my pattern: Qi Deficiency with Dampness. Everything made sense.
What Is TCM Constitution?
TCM constitution classifies people into types based on their balance of Yin, Yang, Qi, Blood, and the Five Elements. Understanding your type helps you choose the right foods and prevent diseases.
The Nine Constitution Types
1. Balanced: Rare. Adaptable, rarely sick.
2. Qi Deficiency: Exhausted. Pale, prone to colds. Congee, sweet potatoes.
3. Yang Deficiency: Always cold. Ginger, cinnamon, lamb.
4. Yin Deficiency: Hot inside. Pears, watermelon.
5. Phlegm-Dampness: Heavy, foggy. Barley, radish.
6. Damp-Heat: Inflamed. Mung beans, cucumber.
7. Blood Stasis: Bruise easily. Turmeric, hawthorn.
8. Qi Stagnation: Stressed, tight. Mint, jasmine.
9. Special: Allergies, hypersensitivity.
How to Determine Your Type
Tongue: Pale=Qi deficiency, Red=Yin deficiency, Thick coating=Dampness.
Temperature: Hot=Yin deficiency, Cold=Yang deficiency.
Quick reference:
- Key marker: Temperature preference