“Body constitution” is a pathophysiological concept formed in the development of Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, referring to the quality characteristics formed by the body due to the prosperity, decline, or bias of zang-fu organs, meridians, qi and blood, yin and yang, etc.
People have different body constitutions, and the effects of the six types of Tea also vary. Drinking the right type of tea according to one's body constitution can maximize its benefits, so it's important to choose tea based on individual differences.
No.1 “Balanced” Constitution
This refers to a strong and healthy body without any cold or hot biases. People with this constitution are physically fit and well-proportioned, eat regularly, have good sleep quality, have rosy and lustrous complexions, have agile limbs, can withstand cold and heat, have normal bowel movements, and have calm and moderate pulses. This type of constitution has no obvious yin or yang biases.
Key to health maintenance: Maintain a normal diet, avoid overeating or fasting; consume more grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits; exercise regularly, such as jogging and playing ball games for the young, and walking and practicing Tai Chi for the elderly.
Recommended tea: Follow the principle of “drinking floral teas in spring, green teas in summer, oolong teas in autumn, and black teas in winter.” There aren't many restrictions, but be mindful not to drink overly hot, strong, or excessive amounts of tea.
No.2 “Qi Deficiency” Constitution
This refers to a constitution characterized by weak and deficient qi. People with this constitution tend to be thin or have soft, untoned muscles, low energy, yellowish complexion, forgetfulness, drowsiness, few words, and a soft, timid voice. They have poor adaptability to wind, dampness, and cold.
Key to health maintenance: Strengthening qi and tonifying the body is crucial. Stay warm and keep away from the cold. Consume foods that help build qi and strengthen the spleen, such as soybeans, shiitake mushrooms, jujubes, and longan. Engage in gentle exercises like yoga and Tai Chi.
Recommended tea: Avoid stimulating teas like green tea. Instead, opt for teas with higher fermentation levels, such as black tea, ripe Pu'er, and Wuyi rock tea that has been roasted.
No.3 “Yin Deficiency” Constitution
This refers to a constitution where yin fluids are deficient, leading to a lack of nourishment and an overabundance of yang. Most people with this constitution are thin and easily agitated. They feel hot, their palms and soles are warm, and their cheeks are flushed and dry. They prefer cold drinks and have difficulty adapting to spring and summer.
Key to health maintenance: Maintain a peaceful state of mind and consume cooling and nourishing foods, such as mung beans and lilies. Focus on nourishing yin and kidneys, clearing heat, and moisturizing the liver. Try to take naps during the day and avoid staying up late. When exercising, pay attention to your sweat output and replenish fluids promptly.
Recommended tea: Lighter teas like yellow tea and White Tea.
No.4 “Yang Deficiency” Constitution
This refers to a constitution where there is a deficiency of yang qi and an excess of internal cold. People with this constitution tend to be overweight, very cold-sensitive, and often have cold hands and feet, especially in the waist, abdomen, and joints. They may appear lethargic and excessively sleepy.
Key to health maintenance: Consume sweet and warm yang-enriching foods, such as Sichuan pepper and chili peppers, while avoiding cold and raw foods like cucumbers and watermelons. Regularly massage acupoints like Zusanli (ST 36), Yongquan (KI 1), and Guanyuan (CV 4).
Recommended tea: Avoid cold beverages and instead drink warming teas like ripe Pu'er and black tea.
No.5 “Damp-Heat” Constitution
People with a damp-heat constitution tend to be swollen and overweight, always have oily skin, and easily develop acne. Their tongues are coated, they are irritable, and find it difficult to adapt to overly humid, hot, or high-temperature environments.
Key to health maintenance: Eat lightly and consume sweet and cool or sweet and neutral foods, such as mung beans and winter melon. Avoid high-calorie foods like fried and greasy dishes. Do not overwork yourself or stay up late, quit smoking and drinking, and participate in regular physical exercise.
Recommended tea: Plain green tea, white tea, and Oolong Tea.
No.6 “Phlegm-Dampness” Constitution
This refers to a constitution formed by the retention of phlegm and dampness in the body. The most prominent feature of people with this constitution is obesity, loose bellies, and abundant facial oil secretion. They sweat and produce phlegm easily, enjoy fatty and rich foods, and tend to be lazy and drowsy.
Key to health maintenance: Eat lightly and consume foods like kelp and radishes, while avoiding sweets, glutinous foods, and fatty foods.
Recommended tea: Focus on detoxification and drink light and mild teas. White teas aged for some time and Pu'er tea are suitable options.
No.7 “Blood Stasis” Constitution
This refers to a constitution where the flow of blood is impeded, causing stagnation. People with this constitution tend to be thin, have dull skin, and easily develop bruises. They experience significant hair loss and are forgetful.
Key to health maintenance: Consume foods like black beans, seaweed, and hawthorn that promote blood circulation and resolve stasis. Also, ensure adequate sleep.
Recommended tea: Drink lighter teas like green tea and floral teas, which can help improve mood.
No.8 “Qi Stagnation” Constitution
This refers to a constitution where the functions of the zang-fu organs are out of balance, particularly characterized by stagnation of qi. This constitution is more commonly seen in women and is prone to liver qi stagnation, leading to anxiety and insomnia.
Key to health maintenance: Consume foods like wheat, kelp, and radishes that promote qi movement, resolve stagnation, and aid digestion. Avoid Drinking Tea, coffee, and other stimulating beverages before bedtime.
Recommended tea: Aromatic teas like floral teas and oolong tea, which can help alleviate anxiety and depression.
No.9 “Special Constitution” (Atopy)
This refers to a special state of constitution caused by genetic and congenital factors, including atopic constitution, hereditary disease constitution, and constitution inherited from parents. People with this constitution may exhibit various symptoms, such as frequent nasal congestion and runny nose even without a cold, susceptibility to asthma, and seasonal allergies.
Key to health maintenance: Eat lightly and balanced, with a proper mix of coarse and fine grains. Avoid spicy foods and those containing allergens.
Recommended tea: Choose teas with higher fermentation levels and moderate Roasting, such as black tea, oolong tea, and dark tea. Due to the high sensitivity of this constitution, the tea should be mild and consumed in moderation.
The choice of tea should be based on the category, and drinking tea that does not suit one's body constitution can be harmful. Drinking tea according to one's constitution is healthier!