Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) identifies nine body constitutions that describe long-term patterns of balance and adaptation. These patterns reflect tendencies in warmth, energy, fluid regulation, and emotional rhythm — offering a framework for personalized daily care and wellness awareness.

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Balanced Constitution

Balanced Constitution

平和质
Short Intro
A balanced constitution represents a state of harmony between Yin and Yang, Qi and Blood. Individuals with this type tend to feel stable, energetic, and adaptable, with few noticeable imbalances.
Core Characteristics
  • Well-proportioned body and healthy complexion
  • Steady energy and good stamina
  • Restful sleep and regular digestion
  • Emotionally stable and optimistic
  • Strong adaptability to environmental change
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Phlegm-Damp Constitution

Phlegm-Damp Constitution

痰湿质
Short Intro
Phlegm-Damp constitution is associated with internal heaviness and reduced fluid metabolism.
Core Characteristics
  • Feeling of heaviness in the body
  • Oily skin
  • Tendency toward weight gain
  • Sticky digestion
  • Low motivation or sluggishness
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Damp-Heat Constitution

Damp-Heat Constitution

湿热质
Short Intro
Damp-Heat constitution reflects internal heat combined with fluid stagnation.
Core Characteristics
  • Oily complexion or acne
  • Bitter taste in mouth
  • Heaviness with irritability
  • Strong body odor or sticky digestion
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Qi-Deficiency Constitution

Qi-Deficiency Constitution

气虚质
Short Intro
Qi-deficiency reflects a lower level of functional energy. Individuals may feel easily fatigued and require more rest to maintain balance.
Core Characteristics
  • Fatigue or low stamina
  • Shortness of breath or low voice
  • Pale or sallow complexion
  • Spontaneous sweating
  • Prone to catching colds
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Yin-Deficiency Constitution

Yin-Deficiency Constitution

阴虚质
Short Intro
Yin-deficiency reflects relative internal dryness or heat. Individuals may experience restlessness or dryness symptoms.
Core Characteristics
  • Warm palms and soles
  • Dry mouth or throat
  • Heat sensitivity
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Dry skin or dry stools
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Yang-Deficiency Constitution

Yang-Deficiency Constitution

阳虚质
Short Intro
Yang-deficiency is associated with internal cold and reduced warmth in the body, especially in the lower limbs.
Core Characteristics
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Preference for warmth
  • Low energy or sluggishness
  • Loose stools
  • Sensitivity to cold weather
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Qi-Stagnation Constitution

Qi-Stagnation Constitution

气郁质
Short Intro
Qi-Stagnation is associated with emotional tension and reduced flow in daily life.
Core Characteristics
  • Mood fluctuations
  • Frequent sighing
  • Chest tightness
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Sensitivity to stress
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Blood-Stasis Constitution

Blood-Stasis Constitution

血瘀质
Short Intro
Blood-Stasis constitution is associated with reduced circulation and stagnation in specific areas of the body.
Core Characteristics
  • Dull or dark complexion
  • Fixed discomfort in certain areas
  • Tendency toward pigmentation
  • Dry or rough skin
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Special Constitution (Allergy-Prone Body Type)

Special Constitution (Allergy-Prone Body Type)

特禀质
Short Intro
Special constitution refers to heightened sensitivity or inherited tendencies, often involving environmental reactivity.
Core Characteristics
  • Sensitive to environmental changes
  • Tendency toward allergies
  • Reactive skin or respiratory sensitivity
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Not sure what's your body constitution?

Take the 9-constitution quiz to explore your overall pattern.

Curious How These 9 Types Are Defined?

Here’s a deeper look at how body constitution is understood in traditional Chinese wellness theory — including how it differs from temporary imbalances and why it shapes long-term care.

• Body Constitution in TCM: A Foundational Wellness Framework

Learn the difference between basic constitution and concurrent constitution — what each represents, how they develop over time, and why both matter when understanding your body’s long-term tendencies.

• The Logic Behind Body Constitution in TCM

Explore the theoretical basis of constitution classification in traditional Chinese thought, including how Yin–Yang balance, Qi, Blood, and body fluids shape different constitutional patterns.

• Body Constitution in TCM: How It Guides Wellness Care

Understand how body constitution informs daily wellness decisions — from lifestyle rhythm to supportive practices — and how care goals differ for foundational patterns versus temporary imbalances.