25 Human Constitutions in TCM: Yin-Yang & Five Phases Analysis
Yellow Emperor inquired: “I have heard of the distinction between Yin and Yang constitutions among humans. How are they categorized?”
Bo Gao replied: “All transformations between heaven and earth, within the cosmos, adhere to the Five Phases—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Humans are no exception. Thus, there exist twenty-five constitutional types derived from permutations of the Five Phases, yet these exclude the pure Yin and Yang archetypes. While I grasp the five primal Yin-Yang forms, I seek clarity on the twenty-five variations and how external traits reflect internal imbalances of Qi and blood. How might one discern internal states from outward manifestations?”
Qi Bo remarked: “Your inquiry is profound! This wisdom was guarded by our ancestors, and even Bo Gao could not fully elucidate it.”
The Yellow Emperor rose, bowed respectfully, and said: “I have heard that withholding knowledge from a worthy heir is a grave loss, while recklessly divulging secrets invites disdain. I vow to safeguard these truths within a golden chest, never to be trivialized.”
Qi Bo began: “First, understand the Five Phases. Then, through the interplay of their hues, the twenty-five constitutions reveal themselves. The Wood type, akin to the Azure Emperor of the East, bears pale skin, a slender face, broad shoulders, and delicate limbs. Endowed with intellect but modest physical vigor, they thrive in spring and summer yet falter in autumn and winter. Their essence resides in the Liver Meridian (Foot-Jueyin). Subtypes—Da Jiao, Zuo Jiao, Tai Jiao, and Pan Jiao—exhibit traits ranging from adaptability to unyielding resolve.
The Fire type, reminiscent of the Crimson Emperor of the South, has ruddy skin, a narrow face, and a fiery temperament. Though charismatic and analytical, their impulsivity shortens lifespan. Governed by the Heart Meridian (Hand-Shaoyin), subtypes like Zhi Zhi, Shao Zhi, You Zhi, and Zhi Pan display volatility or sanguine composure.
The Earth type, embodied by the Yellow Emperor of antiquity, boasts golden skin, a robust frame, and serene stability. Loyal and pragmatic, they endure winter’s chill but succumb to summer’s heat. Anchored in the Spleen Meridian (Foot-Taiyin), subtypes such as Tai Gong, Jia Gong, Shao Gong, and Zuo Gong range from diplomatic grace to resolute independence.
The Metal type, mirroring the White Emperor, exhibits alabaster skin, angular features, and a stoic demeanor. Adept in leadership yet prone to rigidity, they flourish in autumn but wither in spring. Rooted in the Lung Meridian (Hand-Taiyin), subtypes like Tai Shang, Zuo Shang, You Shang, and Shao Shang balance integrity with astute discernment.
The Water type, echoing the Black Emperor, bears dusky skin, a broad countenance, and mercurial cunning. Though resilient in winter, they falter in summer’s blaze. Governed by the Kidney Meridian (Foot-Shaoyin), subtypes such as Da Yu, Shao Yu, Zuo Yu, and You Yu oscillate between arrogance and contemplative restraint.”
Yellow Emperor pressed: “What if one’s form conflicts with their complexion?”
Qi Bo cautioned: “When Phase clashes with hue—Wood overcomes Earth, Fire melts Metal—such disharmony invites peril during Yearly Taboos (ages 7, 16, 25…61). Only alignment of form and hue ensures prosperity.”
On meridian diagnostics, Qi Bo elaborated: “Observe facial hair for Stomach Meridian vitality, limb hair for Gallbladder Meridian vigor, and palm warmth for Large Intestine Meridian balance. Depletion in the Triple Burner Meridian manifests as sallow ears, while Bladder Meridian weakness betrays itself in withered heels.”
For treatment, Qi Bo advised: “Palpate the Cunkou and Renying pulses to gauge Yin-Yang equilibrium. Stagnant Qi demands warming needles; congealed blood requires venesection. Mastery of the twenty-five constitutions—and their meridian reflections—grants the physician power to heal.”