Question 1

What is a TCM body type?

Accepted Answer

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a body type (or constitution) describes a person's inherent physical and mental characteristics, their tendencies toward certain imbalances, and the most effective ways to maintain or restore their health. The modern standard recognises 9 distinct constitution types based on GB/T 39616-2020.

Question 2

How many TCM body types are there?

Accepted Answer

There are 9 TCM body constitution types: Balanced (平和质), Qi Deficiency (气虚质), Yang Deficiency (阳虚质), Yin Deficiency (阴虚质), Phlegm-Dampness (痰湿质), Damp-Heat (湿热质), Blood Stasis (血瘀质), Qi Stagnation (气郁质), and Inherited Sensitivity (特禀质). Most people have one dominant type with a secondary tendency.

Question 3

How accurate is the TCM body type quiz?

Accepted Answer

Our assessment is based on the official GB/T 39616-2020 clinical standard developed by the China Association of Chinese Medicine across a 15,000-person nationwide study. It evaluates 10 symptom dimensions mapping to the 9 constitutions. For the most accurate diagnosis, consult a licensed TCM practitioner (L.Ac.) in person.

Question 4

Can my TCM body type change over time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. TCM constitutions are not fixed — they shift gradually in response to diet, lifestyle, emotional patterns, aging, illness, and seasonal changes. With consistent dietary therapy, appropriate exercise, and lifestyle adjustment, imbalanced constitutions can shift toward the Balanced (平和质) type over months to years.

Question 5

What is the difference between Qi Deficiency and Yang Deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Qi Deficiency means there is insufficient vital energy — causing fatigue, weak immunity, and shortness of breath. Yang Deficiency is a deeper pattern where warming energy is lacking — causing cold extremities, aversion to cold, and sluggish metabolism. Yang Deficiency often develops from long-standing Qi Deficiency. Both share fatigue but Yang Deficiency has prominent cold signs.

Question 6

Is the TCM body type quiz free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The full 10-section body type assessment is completely free. After completing the quiz you receive your primary and secondary constitution results with a free overview. An optional full clinical report (4 chapters including a 7-day meal matrix, acupressure protocol and meridian clock analysis) is available for $9.90.

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