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Basis For Ayurvedic Philosophy

Uniqueness of Individuals

Ayurveda views each and every person as unique, with a unique mind-body
constitution and a unique set of life circumstances, all of which must be
considered in determining either natural healing approaches or recommendations
for daily living. This view is in alignment with the modern science which views
individuals as unique in the universe with a unique DNA.

According to Ayurveda, because we each have a unique constitution, our health

prescription must be unique to us. This means that in order to be healthy, you
need to eat certain foods that are beneficial for your body type and stay away
from others. Your exercise program must be personally suitable as well. Your
constitution determines very much about you - your body, your personality, even
how you relate to other people. Understanding it lets you know what you need in
order to be healthy.

Harmony With The Nature and Developing Perfect Health

The theoretical side of Ayurveda provides insights into how to live one's life in
harmony with nature and natural laws and rhythms. Its practical side - specifically
its guidelines for an intelligently regulated diet and daily routine, its techniques for
stress management, and its exercises for increased fitness and alertness-help us
take control of our lives and develop radiant health.

The central goal of Ayurveda is nothing less than a state of perfect health, for the
individual and for society and the environment as well, in which every man and
woman is inwardly in balance and outwardly in harmony with the environment
and the laws of nature.

According to Ayurveda, nature is permeated by intelligence. Intelligent laws

govern the growth of all living things; kittens grow into cats, acorns into oak trees.
Indeed, laws of nature regulate everything, from the tiny world of whirling atoms
to the huge, enormous world of galaxies.

The Concept of Self

The Self, as this inner dimension of our nature is called in Ayurveda, is the
central point of our being, the hub of the wheel. It is the true inner center of our
diversified lives. Thought, feelings, speech, action, and relationships all originate
here, deep within the personality. The whole person-and the whole field of
interpersonal behavior-can be spontaneously enhanced by the process of self-
referral, or looking within to experience the Self. This is analogous to the natural

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process by which all the branches, leaves, flowers, and fruit of a tree can be
simultaneously nourished and enlivened by watering the root.

The Self can be directly experienced. Those who do experience it find it to be

deeply peaceful, yet a reservoir of creativity, intelligence, and happiness that
spills over into all phases of living.

How Do We Get Sick?

Ayurveda holds that specific disease conditions are symptoms of an underlying

imbalance. It does not neglect relief of these symptoms, but its main focus is on
the big picture: to restore balance and to help you create such a healthy lifestyle
that the imbalance won't occur again.

Living in health and balance is the key to a long life free from disease.

Perhaps the most important lesson Ayurveda has to teach is that our health is up
to us. Every day of our lives, every hour of every day, we can, and do, choose
either health or illness. When we choose wisely, nature rewards us with health
and happiness. When we persistently choose unwisely, nature, in her wisdom,
eventually sets us straight: She makes us sick and gives us a chance to rest and
rethink our choices

The Five Great Elements

Ayurveda believes that everything in this universe is made up of five great

elements or building blocks. These are earth, water, fire, air, and ether.

Earth represents the solid state of matter. It manifests stability, permanence, and
rigidity. In our body, the parts such as bones, teeth, cells, and tissues are
manifestations of the earth. Earth is considered a stable substance.

Water characterizes change and represents the liquid state. Water is necessary
for the survival of all living things. A large part of the human body is made up of
water. Our blood, lymph, and other fluids move between our cells and through
our vessels, bringing energy, carrying away wastes, regulating temperature,
bringing disease fighters, and carrying hormonal information from one area to
another. Water is a substance without stability.

Fire is the power to transform solids into liquids, to gas, and back again. In other
words, it possess power to transform the state of any substance. Within our
bodies, the fire or energy binds the atoms together. It also converts food to fat
(stored energy) and muscle. Fire transforms food into energy. It creates the
impulses of nervous reactions, our feelings, and even our thought processes.
Fire is considered a form without substance.

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Air is the gaseous form of matter which is mobile and dynamic. Within the body,
air (oxygen) is the basis for all energy transfer reactions. It is a key element
required for fire to burn. Air is existence without form.

Ether is the space in which everything happens. It is the field that is

simultaneously the source of all matter and the space in which it exists. Ether is
only the distances which separate matter. The chief characteristic of ether is
sound. Here sound represents the entire spectrum of vibration.

Every substance in our world is made up of these five substances. All

substances can be classified according to their predominant element. For
example, a mountain is predominantly made up of earth element. A mountain
also contain water, fire, air and ether. But these elements are very small
compared to the earth. So, its classification is the earth.

Ayurveda defines a human as the assemblage of the five great elements plus the
"immaterial self."

Like And Unlike

Anything that enters our body (microcosm) can exert three possible
effects on the organism.

It can act as food. This nourishes the organism

It can act as medicine. This balances the organism
It can act as poison. This disturbs the organism.

The five elements may exert one, two, or all three of these effects. The rule that
governs the interaction between the environment and the organism is the Law of
Like and Unlike. Like increase like. Unlike decreases like.

For example, when you lie in full sun, your body temperature goes up. Similarly,
when you take bath in cold water, your body temperature goes down. Everything
you experience, food, medicine, or poison, increases like parts of your
microcosm and decreases those parts that are unlike it. Similarly, thought also
enters your microcosm. Thought can be positive or negative and will influence
your being. Goods thoughts cheer you up. Bad thoughts will poison you and
decrease your good feelings.

Knowing what is good and what is not so good for your personal self enables you
to make informed choices in your life. Right thoughts and attitudes actually
induce prosperity. Evil thoughts and bad deeds will not result in prosperity, but to
the ultimate ruin of the microcosm.

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Concept of Tri-Dosha

In Ayurvedic philosophy, the five elements combine in pairs to form three

dynamic forces or interactions called doshas. Dosha means "that which
changes." It is a word derived from the root dus, which is equivalent to the
English prefix 'dys', such as in dysfunction, dystrophy, etc. In this sense,
dosha can be regarded as a fault, mistake, error, or a transgression
against the cosmic rhythm. The doshas are constantly moving in dynamic
balance, one with the others. Doshas are required for the life to happen. In
Ayurveda, dosha is also known as the governing principles as every living
thing in nature is characterized by the dosha.

The three active doshas are called Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Dosha Related Elements

Vata Air and Ether

Pitta Fire and Water

Kapha Water and Earth

Vata is a force conceptually made up of elements ether and air. The

proportions of ether and air determine how active Vata is. The amount of
ether (space) affects the ability of the air to gain momentum. If
unrestricted, as in ocean, air can gain momentum and become forceful
such as a hurricane.

Vata means "wind, to move, flow, direct the processes of, or command."
Vata enables the other two doshas to be expressive. The actions of Vata
are drying, cooling, light, agitating, and moving.

Vata governs breathing, blinking of the eyelids, movements in the muscles

and tissues, pulsations in the heart, all expansion and contraction, the
movements of cytoplasm and the cell membranes, and the movement of
the single impulses in nerve cells. Vata also governs such feelings and
emotions as freshness, nervousness, fear, anxiety, pain, tremors, and
spasms. The primary seat or location of the Vata in the body is the colon.
It also resides in the hips, thighs, ears, bones, large intestine, pelvic
cavity, and skin. It is related to the touch sensation. If the body develops
an excess of vata, it will accumulate in these areas.

The effect of Vata on our body or microcosm is described in the table

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below.

See Also: Characteristics of Vata Types

Signs of Vata Dosha Imbalance

General Tips on Health and Wellness For Vata Types

A Food Plan to Balance Vata Dosha

Pitta is a force created by the dynamic interplay of water and fire. These
forces represent transformation. They cannot change into each other, but
they modulate or control each other and are vitally required for the life
processes to occur. (For example, too much fire and too little water will
result in the boiling away of the water. Too much water will result in the
fire being put out.)

Pitta governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism,

body temperature, skin coloration, the luster of the eyes, intelligence, and
understanding. Psychologically, pitta arouses anger, hate, and jealousy.
The small intestine, stomach, sweat glands, blood, fat, eyes, and skin are
the seats of Pitta.

The effect of Pitta on our body or microcosm is shown in the table below.

See Also: Characteristics of Pitta Types

Signs of Pitta Dosha Imbalance

General Tips on Health and Wellness For Pitta Types

A Food Plan to Balance Pitta Dosha

Kapha is the conceptual equilibrium of water and earth. Kapha is structure

and lubrication. One can visualize the Kapha force as the stirring force to
keep the water and earth from separating. For example, if we take a pot,
fill it to the half with water and then add sand to it, the sand will gradually
sink to the bottom of the pot. (It separates from the water). The only way
to keep the sand in equilibrium with the water is by stirring the mixture
continuously. The Kapha force can be visualized as this stirring force in
our body.

Kapha cements the elements in the body, providing the material for
physical structure. This dosha maintains body resistance. Water is the

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main constituent of kapha, and this bodily water is responsible
physiologically for biological strength and natural tissue resistance in the
body. Kapha lubricates the joints; provides moisture to the skin; helps to
heal wounds; fills the spaces in the body; gives biological strength, vigor
and stability; supports memory retention; gives energy to the heart and
lungs, and maintains immunity. Kapha is present in the chest, throat,
head, sinuses, nose, mouth, stomach, joints, cytoplasm, plasma, and in
the liquid secretions of the body such as mucus. Psychologically, kapha is
responsible for the emotions of attachment, greed, and long-standing
envy. It is also expressed in tendencies toward calmness, forgiveness,
and love. The chest is the seat of kapha.

The effect of Kapha on our body or microcosm is shown in the table

below.

See Also: Characteristics of Kapha Types

Signs of Kapha Dosha Imbalance

General Tips on Health and Wellness For Kapha Types

A Food Plan to Balance Kapha Dosha

Effect of Constitution Type On Body or Microcosm

Vata Pitta Kapha

Function of Movement Body heat Stability

the Dosha (or Breathing Temperature Energy
controls) Natural Urges Digestion Lubrication
Transformation Perception Forgiveness
of the tissues Understanding Greed
Motor functions Hunger Attachment
Sensory Thirst Accumulation
functions Intelligence Holding
Ungroundednes Anger Possessivenes
s Hate s
Secretions Jealousy
Excretions
Fear
Emptiness

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 Anxiety
Thoughts
Life force
Nerve impulses

Manifests in The movement of:: The quality of Cells which make

living things nerve impulses transformation. up our organs
as air Pitta controls the and fluids which
blood enzymes that nourish and
food digest our food protect them.
waste and the
thought hormones that
regulate our
metabolism. Pitta
transforms the
chemical/electrica
l impulses in our
mind to thoughts
we can
understand.

Characteristic cold hot oily

s light light cold
irregular fluid heavy
mobile subtle stable
rarefied sharp dense
dry malodorous smooth
rough soft
clear

Too much of nerve irritation ulcers Mucous build-

the dosha high blood hormonal up in the sinus
force can pressure imbalance and nasal
result in gas irritated skin passages, the
confusion (acne) lungs and
consuming colon.
emotions In the mind it
(anger) creates rigidity,
a fixation of
thought,
inflexibility.

Too little nerve loss indigestion Experiences a

dosha force congestion inability to dry respiratory
can result in constipation understand tract

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 thoughtlessness sluggish burning
metabolism stomach (due
to lack of
mucous, which
protects from
excess
stomach acids)
inability to
concentrate

Where found flowers and leaves Plant's essential Roots (The roots
in a plant (the parts which oils, resins and are where water
reach farthest into sap is stored. Roots
air and space) also stay within
the earth.)

Climatic Dry climates or Hot summers or Wet winters and

influences cold autumn winds hot climates will damp climate add
increases Vata increase Pitta to Kapha.

Predominant Old age Teen and Adult. Childhood years.

during the life As we get older, During this stage, During this
stage of we "shrink and dry our hormone period, we grow
out". changes or increase in
transforms us into substance of the
adults body.

CHARACTERISTICS OF VATA TYPES

Here are some of the common characteristics of people who have a

predominantly Vata constitution.

Creativity, mental quickness

Highly imaginative
Quick to learn and grasp new knowledge, but also quick to forget
Sexually easily excitable but quickly satiated
Slenderness; lightest of the three body types
Talk and walk quickly
Tendency toward cold hands and feet, discomfort in cold climates
Excitable, lively, fun personality
Changeable moods
Irregular daily routine
Variable appetite and digestive efficiency

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 High energy in short bursts; tendency to tire easily and to overexert
Full of joy and enthusiasm when in balance
Respond to stress with fear, worry, and anxiety, especially when out of balance
Tendency to act on impulse
Often have racing, disjointed thoughts
Generally have dry skin and dry hair and don't perspire much
Typical health problems include headaches, hypertension, dry coughs, sore
throats, earaches, anxiety, irregular heart rhythms, muscle spasms, lower back
pain, constipation, abdominal gas, diarrhea, nervous stomach, menstrual
cramps, premature ejaculation and other sexual dys-functions, arthritis. Most
neurological disorders are related to Vata imbalance.

Physical Features

People of vata constitution are generally physically underdeveloped. Their chests

are flat and their veins and muscle tendons are visible. The complexion is brown,
the skin is cold, rough, dry and cracked.

Vata people generally are either too tall or too short, with thin frames which
reveal prominent joints and bone-ends because of poor muscle development.
The hair is curly and scanty, the eyelashes are thin and the eyes lusterless. The
eyes may be sunken, small, dry, and active. The nails are rough and brittle. The
shape of the nose is bent and turned-up.

Physiologically, the appetite and digestion are variable. Vata people loves sweet,
sour and salty tastes and like hot drinks. The production of urine is scanty and
the feces are dry, hard and small in quantity. They have a tendency to perspire
less than other constitutional types. Their sleep may be disturbed and they will
sleep less than the other types. Their hands and feet are often cold.

Psychologically, they are characterized by short memory but quick mental

understanding. They will understand something immediately, but will soon forget
it. They have little willpower, tend toward mental instability and possess little
tolerance, confidence or boldness. Their reasoning power is weak and these
people are nervous, fearful and afflicted by much anxiety.

Vata people tend to earn money quickly and also to spend it quickly. Thus, they
tend to remain poor.

Signs of Vata Dosha Imbalance:

There are a number of tell tale signs of dosha imbalance. Some persons will get
very angry. Some get depressed, etc. Here is a summary of the signs of vata
imbalance:

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 Worried
Tired, yet can't relax, Fatigue, poor stamina
Nervous, Can't concentrate
Anxious, fearful
Agitated mind
Impatient, Antsy or hyperactive
Spaced out
Self-defeating
Shy, insecure, Restless
Cannot make decisions
Weight loss, under weight
Insomnia; wake up at night and can't go back to sleep
Generalized aches, sharp pains, Arthritis, stiff and painful joints
Agitated movement
Very sensitive to cold
Nail biting
Rough, flaky skin, Chapped lips
Fainting spells
Heart palpitations
Constipation, Intestinal bloating, gas, Belching, hiccups
Dry, sore throat, Dry eyes

The Vatas find it very difficult to maintain regular habits, that is, to eat and sleep
at regular times. But this is the most important thing for them to do. When Vata is
out of balance this may feel almost impossible, but an effort to establish a regular
routine is very important for all people with a Vata body type. Rest sufficiently,
and choose foods, behaviors, personal relationships, and environmental
circumstances which can be instrumental in balancing vata characteristics. It is
also important to regulate mental and physical impulses and to modify mental
attitudes, emotional states, and behaviors in supportive ways.

Sweet, sour, and salty tastes decrease vata influences, so include these tastes if
vata influences need to be diminished. Milk, wheat, rice, and some fruits and
berries can provide sweet and sour tastes.

Regular exercise should be relaxed and moderate. Hatha yoga practice in a

meditative mood is good, as are t'ai chi, walking, and swimming. Avoid
strenuous, competitive, frantic activities.

When possible, associate with people who are calmly purposeful. Meditate every
day for deep relaxation.

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 General Tips on Health and Wellness For Vata Types

The Vatas find it very difficult to maintain regular habits, that is, to eat and sleep
at regular times. But this is the most important thing for them to do. When Vata is
out of balance this may feel almost impossible, but an effort to establish a regular
routine is very important for all people with a Vata body type. Rest sufficiently,
and choose foods, behaviors, personal relationships, and environmental
circumstances which can be instrumental in balancing vata characteristics. It is
also important to regulate mental and physical impulses and to modify mental
attitudes, emotional states, and behaviors in supportive ways.

Sweet, sour, and salty tastes decrease vata influences, so include these tastes if
vata influences need to be diminished. Milk, wheat, rice, and some fruits and
berries can provide sweet and sour tastes.

Regular exercise should be relaxed and moderate. Hatha yoga practice in a

meditative mood is good, as are t'ai chi, walking, and swimming. Avoid
strenuous, competitive, frantic activities.

When possible, associate with people who are calmly purposeful. Meditate every
day for deep relaxation.

A Food Plan to Balance Vata Dosha

These guidelines can be used for vata mind-body constitutions, to maintain

dosha balance, and to restore balance if necessary, regardless of the basic
constitution. Vata influences the movement of thoughts, feelings, prana flows,
nerve impulses, and fluids in the body.

Favor:

Warm food, moderately heavy textures, added butter and fat.

Salt, sour, and sweet tastes; Soothing and satisfying foods.
All soothing foods are good for settling disturbed Vata. Use foods such as:
warm milk, cream, butter, warm soups, stews, hot cereals, fresh baked bread.
Since vata is a cold dry dosha, warm, nourishing foods such as these are good
for stabilizing vata. On the other hand cold foods such as cold salads, iced
drinks, raw vegetables and greens are not very good for persons with vata
imbalance.
Breakfast is highly recommended. Use hot cereals such as cream of rice or
wheat or any other breakfast that is warm, milky, and sweet.
Take a hot or herbal tea with snacks in the late afternoon. Avoid drinks with
high caffeine as vata gets disturbed by it.
Use spicy foods such as spicy Mexican or Indian foods that are cooked in oil.

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 Use warm moist foods such as cooked grains and cereals, bowl of hot oatmeal
or cup of steaming vegetable soup.
Warm milk is good. You can add a little sugar or honey to it if you prefer. Avoid
eating candies as it disturbs vata.
Prefer salted nuts that are heavy and oily as opposed to dry salty snacks.
All sweet fruits are Ok for vata. Avoid unripe fruits as they are astringent
Take warm or hot water instead of ice water and drinks.
Summary: Breakfast is usually desirable. Hot foods and sweet and sour tastes.
Reduce dry foods and bitter tastes. Warm or hot water and drinks. Raw nuts
and nut butters. Spices: cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, ginger, cloves in
moderation.

Food Classified By Group

Vegetables | Fruits | Grains | Dairy | Meat | Beans | Oils | Sweeteners |

Nuts and Seeds | Herbs and Spices

Vegetables
Favor Reduce or Avoid
cooked vegetables broccoli
asparagus Brussels sprouts
beets cabbage
carrots cauliflower
cucumber celery
garlic eggplant
green beans leafy green vegetables
onions, cooked mushrooms
onions, cooked peas
sweet potato peppers
radishes potatoes
turnips sprouts
leafy greens in moderation tomatoes
zucchini

Note: The above vegetables are

OK if cooked with oil except
cabbage and sprouts

Avoid raw vegetables, in general

Fruits
Favor Reduce or Avoid
sweet fruits apples

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apricots cranberries
avocados pears
bananas pomegranates
berries
cherries The above fruits are OK cooked
coconut
fresh figs Avoid dried fruits, in general and
grapefruit unripe fruit (especially bananas)
lemons
grapes
mangos
sweet melons
sour oranges
papaya
pineapple
peaches
plums
sour fruits
Stewed fruits
Sweet, well-ripened fruit in
general

Grains
Favor Reduce or Avoid
oats(as cooked oatmeal cereal, barley
not dry) buckwheat
cooked rice corn
wheat dry oats
millet
rye

Dairy
Favor Reduce or Avoid
All Dairy is acceptable

Meat
Favor Reduce or Avoid
chicken Avoid red meat
seafood, in general

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turkey
All in small quantity

Beans
Favor Reduce or Avoid
chickpeas All, except as noted.
mung beans
pink lentils
tofu (small amounts)

Oils
Favor Reduce or Avoid
All oils are acceptable
Sesame oil and olive oil are
especially good.

Sweeteners
Favor Reduce or Avoid
All sweeteners are acceptable

Nuts and Seeds

Favor Reduce or Avoid
All are acceptable in small
amounts. Almonds are best.

Herbs and Spices

Favor Reduce or Avoid
Almost all, in moderation, with Avoid using spices in large
emphasis on sweet and/or quantities. Minimize or avoid all
heating herbs and spices, such bitter and astringent herbs and
as: spices such as:
allspice coriander seed
anise fenugreek
asafoetida parsley
basil saffron

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bay leaf turmeric
black pepper (use sparingly)
caraway
cardamom
cilantro (green coriander)
cinnamon
clove
cumin
fennel
ginger
juniper berries
licorice root
mace
marjoram
mustard
nutmeg
oregano
sage
tarragon
thyme

If your basic constitution is mixed (vata-pitta or vata-kapha), include portions for

the second influential dosha. Vata dosha is aggravated and increased during
autumn and early winter. During these seasons all mind-body types can include
some of the above foods and decrease others.

Mental and emotional peace and constructive lifestyle routines are important to
restoring and maintaining balance.

*****************************************END**********************************************
************

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 CHARACTERISTICS OF PITTA TYPE

Here are some of the common characteristics of people who have a

predominantly Pitta body type.

Medium physique, strong, well-built

Sharp mind, good concentration powers
Orderly, focused
Assertive, self-confident, and entrepreneurial at their best; aggressive,
demanding, pushy when out of balance
Competitive, enjoy challenges
Passionate and romantic; sexually have more vigor and endurance than Vatas,
but less than Kaphas
Strong digestion, strong appetite; get irritated if they have to miss or wait for a
meal
Like to be in command
When under stress, Pittas become irritated and angry
Skin fair or reddish, often with freckles; sunburns easily
Hair usually fine and straight, tending toward blond or red, typically turns gray
early; tendency toward baldness or thinning hair
Uncomfortable in sun or hot weather; heat makes them very tired
Perspire a lot
Others may find them stubborn, pushy, opinionated
Good public speakers; also capable of sharp, sarcastic, cutting speech
Generally good management and leadership ability, but can become
authoritarian
Like to spend money, surround themselves with beautiful objects
Subject to temper tantrums, impatience, and anger
Typical physical problems include rashes or inflammations of the skin, acne,
boils, skin cancer, ulcers, heartburn, acid stomach, hot sensations in the
stomach or intestines, insomnia, bloodshot or burning eyes and other vision
problems, anemia, jaundice.

Physical Features

These people are of medium height, are slender and body frame may be
delicate. Their chests are not as flat as those of vata people and they show a
medium prominence of veins and muscle tendons. The bones are not as
prominent as in the vata individual. Muscle development is moderate.

The pitta complexion may be coppery, yellowish, reddish or fair. The skin is soft,
warm and less wrinkled than vata skin. The hair is thin, silky, red or brownish and
there is a tendency toward premature graying of hair and hair loss. The eyes may
be gray, green or cooper-brown and sharp: the eyeballs will be of medium

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prominence. The nails are soft. The shape of the nose is sharp and the tip tends
to be reddish.

Physiologically, these people have a strong metabolism, good digestion and

resulting strong appetites. The person of pitta constitution usually takes large
quantities of food and liquid. Pitta types have a natural craving for sweet, bitter
and astringent tastes and enjoy cold drinks. Their sleep is of medium duration but
uninterrupted. They produce a large volume of urine and the feces are yellowish,
liquid, soft and plentiful. There is a tendency toward excessive perspiring. The
body temperature may run slightly high and hands and feet will tend to be warm.
Pitta people do not tolerate sunlight, heat or hard work well.

Psychologically, pitta people have a good power of comprehension; they are very
intelligent and sharp and tend to be good orators. They have emotional
tendencies toward hate, anger and jealousy.

They are ambitious people who generally like to be leaders. Pitta people
appreciate material prosperity and they tend to be moderately well-off financially.
They enjoy exhibiting their wealth and luxurious possessions

Signs of Pitta Aggravation

Angry, Irritable
Hostile, Enraged, Destructive
Impatient
Critical of self and others
Argumentative, Aggressive
Bossy, controlling
Frustrated, Willful, Reckless
Acidity, heartburn, Stomach ulcer
Fitful sleep, Disturbing dreams
Diarrhea, Food allergies
Bad breath, Sour body odor
Very sensitive to heat, Hot flashes
Skin rashes
Boils
Bloodshot eyes
Acne
Weakness due to low blood sugar
Fevers, Night sweats

Also See: Other Signs of Pitta Imbalance

When you experience symptoms such as, excessive body heat, digestive
problems, a tendency to be hostile or angry and controlling, impatience, a
tendency to exert excessive effort to achieve goals, vision difficulties, and being

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prone to make errors in judgment because of mental confusion or because
passion or emotion blurs powers of intellectual discernment, there is a good
possibility that you are suffering from pitta imbalance.

Indications of balanced pitta influences are strong powers of digestion,

vitality, goal-setting inclinations, good problem-solving skills, keen powers of
intelligence, decisiveness, boldness and courage, and a bright complexion.

General Tips on Health and Wellness For Pitta Persons

Pitta constitutions will be upset by alcohol and cigarettes, as well as by overwork,

overexertion, and overheating. When out of balance, they are susceptible to
feeling such negative emotions as hostility, hatred, intolerance, and jealousy.
Therefore it is very important for Pittas to keep cool (literally and figuratively) and
to lead a pure and moderate lifestyle. Choose foods, attitudes, behaviors,
personal relationships, and environmental circumstances which can be
instrumental in balancing pitta characteristics.

Because sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes decrease pitta influences, include
these in your food plan if pitta characteristics are too pronounced. Complex
carbohydrates, milk, and some fruits are sweet; some green, leafy vegetables
are bitter; beans and some green vegetables are astringent.

Do things that cool the mind, emotions, and body. Avoid conflicts. Cultivate the
virtues of honesty, morality, kindness, generosity, and self-control.

A Food Plan to Balance Pitta Dosha

These guidelines can be used for pitta mind-body constitutions, to maintain

dosha balance and to restore balance if necessary regardless of the basic
constitution. Pitta influences digestion and metabolism, body temperature, and
biological transformations.

Favor

Cool or warm but not steaming hot foods

Bitter, sweet, and astringent tastes
As far as practical use less butter and added fat. Consume food with
moderately heavy textures.
Since Pittas have strong efficient digestion, they can generally eat just about
everything. Most Pittas get into trouble by continued use of too much salt,
overuse of sour and spicy food and overeating.
Take cool, refreshing food in summer. Reduce the consumption of salt, oil, and
spices, all of which are "heating" to the body. Salads are good, so is milk and
ice cream.
Avoid pickles, yogurt, sour cream, and cheese. Avoid vinegar in salad

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 dressing; use lemon juice instead. Alcoholic and fermented foods should be
avoided. Their sour Rasa aggravates Pitta. Coffee is also pitta aggravating due
to the acid in coffee. Herb tea is good. Prefer mint, licorice root or other pitta
pacifying tea.
Breakfast: Cold cereals, cinnamon toast, and apple tea is a good breakfast for
Pitta. Avoid coffee, orange juice and doughnuts - they aggravate pitta.
The vegetarian foods are the best for pitta. Consuming red meat tend to heat
the body from the fat. Consume abundant amounts of milk, grains and
vegetables.
Avoid oily, hot, salty, and heavy foods such as fried food. Instead consume
starchy foods such as vegetables, grains and beans. Avoid the tendency to
overeat under stress.
Avoid processed and fast foods as they tend to be heavy on salt and sour
tastes. Japanese and Chinese food are good choices. Avoid highly spicy food
such as is found in Mexican restaurants.
To bring down aggravated Pitta, take two teaspoons of ghee (clarified butter) in
a glass of warm milk. (Avoid taking the ghee if you have problem with high
cholesterol).

Summary

Avoid egg yolks, nuts, hot spices, honey, and hot drinks. Cool foods and drinks
are better. Add sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes. Reduce use of sour tastes.
Spices: black pepper, coriander, and cardamom.

Food Classified By Group

Vegetables | Fruits | Grains | Dairy | Meat | Beans | Oils | Sweeteners |

Nuts and Seeds | Herbs and Spices

Vegetables
Favor Reduce or Avoid
Sweet and bitter vegetables: Beets
Asparagus Carrots
Broccoli Eggplant
Brussels sprouts Garlic
Cabbage Hot peppers
Cauliflower Onions
Celery Radishes
Cucumber Spinach
Green beans Tomatoes
Green (sweet) peppers
Leafy green vegetables

19
Lettuce
Mushrooms
Okra
Parsley
Peas
Potatoes
Sprouts
Squash
Sweet potatoes
Zucchini

Fruits
Favor Reduce or Avoid
Sweet Fruits: Apricots
Apples Bananas
Avocados Berries
Cherries Cherries (sour)
Coconut Cranberries
Figs Grapefruit
Dark grapes Papayas
Mangoes Peaches
Melons Persimmons
Oranges Avoid fruits that come to market
Pears sour or unripe. Also avoid fruits
Pineapples such as green grapes, oranges,
Plums pineapple and plum unless they
Prunes are sweet and ripe.
Raisins
Note: Fruits should be sweet and
ripe.

Grains
Favor Reduce or Avoid
Barley Brown rice
Oats Corn
Wheat Millet
White rice (prefer basmati rice) Rye

Dairy
Favor Reduce or Avoid

20
Butter Buttermilk
Egg whites Cheese
Ghee (clarified butter )- unless Egg yolks
you are watching cholesterol Sour cream
Ice cream Yogurt
Milk

Meat
Favor Reduce or Avoid
Chicken Red meat and sea food in
Shrimp general
Turkey
(All in small amounts)

Beans
Favor Reduce or Avoid
Chickpeas Lentils
Mung beans
Tofu and other soybean
products

Oils
Favor Reduce or Avoid
Coconut Almond
Olive Corn
Soy Safflower
Sunflower Sesame

Nuts and Seeds

Favor Reduce or Avoid
Coconut All, except as noted
Pumpkin seeds
Sunflower seeds

Sweeteners
Favor Reduce or Avoid

21
All are acceptable except honey Honey and
and molasses Molasses

Herbs and Spices

Favor Reduce or Avoid
Spices are generally avoided as All pungent herbs and spices,
too heating. In small amounts, except as noted. Take only the
the following sweet and minimal amounts of the
astringent spices are OK following:
Barbecue sauce
Cardamom Catsup
Cilantro(green coriander) Mustard
Cinnamon Pickles
Coriander seed Salt
Dill Sour salad dressings
Fennel Spicy condiments
Mint Vinegar
Saffron
Turmeric

Plus small amounts of cumin and

black pepper

If your basic constitution is mixed (pitta-vata or pitta-kapha), to maintain balance,

include smaller portions for the second dosha.

Pitta dosha is aggravated and increased during summer. During hot, dry
seasons, all mind-body types can choose some of the above foods and decrease
others.

Mental and emotional peace and constructive lifestyle routines are important to
restoring and maintaining balance

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 CHARACTERISTICS OF KAPHA TYPES

Here are some of the common characteristics of people who have a

predominantly Kapha constitution.

Easygoing, relaxed, slow-paced

Affectionate and loving
Forgiving, compassionate, nonjudgmental nature Stable and reliable; faithful
Physically strong and with a sturdy, heavier build
Have the most energy of all constitutions, but it is steady and enduring, not
explosive
Slow moving and graceful
Slow speech, reflecting a deliberate thought process
Slower to learn, but never forgets; outstanding long-term memory
Soft hair and skin; tendency to have large "soft" eyes and a low, soft voice
Tend toward being overweight; may also suffer from sluggish digestion
Prone to heavy, oppressive depressions
More self-sufficient, need less outward stimulation than do the other types A
mild, gentle, and essentially undemanding approach to life
Sexually Kaphas are the slowest to be aroused, but they also have the most
endurance
Excellent health, strong resistance to disease
Slow to anger; strive to maintain harmony and peace in their surroundings
Not easily upset and can be a point of stability for others
Tend to be possessive and hold on to things, people, money; good savers.
Don't like cold, damp weather
Physical problems include colds and congestion, sinus headaches, respiratory
problems including asthma and wheezing, hay fever, allergies, and
atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Physical Features

People of kapha constitution have well-developed bodies. There is, however, a

strong tendency for these individuals to carry excess weight. Their chests are
expanded and broad. The veins and tendons of kapha people are not obvious
because of their thick skin and their muscle development is good. The bones are
not prominent.

Their complexions are fair and bright. The skin is soft, lustrous and oily, it is also
cold and pale. The hair is thick, dark, soft and wavy. The eyes are dense and
black or blue: the white of the eye is generally very white, large and attractive.

23
Physiologically, kapha people have regular appetites. Due to slow digestion, they
tend to consume less food. They crave pungent, bitter and astringent foods.
Stools are soft and may be pale in color: evacuation is slow. Their perspiration is
moderate. Sleep is sound and prolonged. There is a strong vital capacity
evidenced by good stamina, and kapha people are generally healthy, happy and
peaceful.

Psychologically, they tend to be tolerant, calm, forgiving and loving: however,

they also exhibit traits of greed, attachment, envy and possessiveness. Their
comprehension is slow but definite: once they understand something, that
knowledge is retained.

Kapha people tend to be wealthy. They earn money and are good at holding on
to it.

Signs of Kapha Aggravation

Sluggish thinking, Dull thinking

Groggy all day
Apathetic, no desire
Depressed, Sad, Sentimental
Slow to comprehend, Slow to react
Procrastinating, Lethargy
Clingy, hanging on to people and ideas
Greedy, Possessive, Materialistic
Sleeping too much
Very tired in the morning, hard to get out of bed
Drowsy or groggy during the day
Weight gain, obesity
Mucus and congestion in the chest or throat
Mucus and congestion in the nose or sinuses
Nausea
Diabetes
Hay fever
Pale, cool, clammy skin
Edema, water retention, Bloated feeling
Sluggish digestion, food "just sits" in the stomach
High cholesterol
Aching joints or heavy limbs

Also See: Symptoms of Kapha Aggravation

When you experience symptoms such as nausea, lethargy, a feeling of

heaviness, chills, looseness of the limbs, coughing, mucus discharges, breathing
difficulties, and a tendency to sleep too much, you may be suffering from Kapha
imbalance. Other symptoms can be inertia, congestion, stagnation, and

24
circulation problems. There may be a tendency toward obesity. Boredom,
laziness, and mental dullness may be present.

Indications of balanced kapha influences are physical strength, a strong

immune system, serenity, mental resolve, rational thinking, ability to conserve
and use personal resources, endurance, and adaptability.

General Tips for Health and Wellness for Kapha Types

Kapha's are prone to lethargy, sluggishness, depression, and overweight,

Kaphas need activity and stimulation. Daily exercise is more important for them
than for any other type. Getting out of the house and actively seeking new
experiences is also valuable. Be receptive to useful change, renounce
impediments to progress, be intentional in implementing life-enhancing actions,
and choose foods, mental attitudes, behaviors, exercise routines, and
relationships and environmental circumstances which can be instrumental in
balancing kapha characteristics.

Pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes decrease kapha influences. Black pepper,
ginger, cumin, chili, and some other spices provide the pungent taste; bitter is
provided by some green leafy vegetables; and some green vegetables and
beans provide the astringent taste. Note that the taste that decreases a dosha
usually increases one or both of the other two. For general purposes, mildly
increase the proportion of foods which are helpful while somewhat decreasing
the proportions of others-having a sampling of all six tastes at your major meal.

Meditation can be more intensive for kapha constitutions than for vata or pitta
constitutions. Schedule time every day for prayer and meditation.

A Food Plan to Balance Kapha Dosha

These guidelines can be used for kapha mind-body constitutions, to maintain

dosha balance, and to restore balance if necessary, regardless of the basic
constitution. Kapha influences the heavy, moist aspects of the body.

25
What kind of Food to Eat to Balance Kapha

Warm, light food

Dry food, cooked without much water, minimum of butter, oil and sugar
Stimulating foods with pungent, bitter, and astringent tastes
Kaphas need to watch the consumption of too much sweet foods or fatty foods.
Keep an eye on the salt consumption also, which tend to result in fluid
retention in Kaphas.
Light meals are to be favored such as light breakfast and dinner.
Avoid deep fried foods. Eat lightly cooked foods or raw fruits and vegetables.
Eat spicy, bitter and astringent foods. Watch out for eating too much food, a
typical kapha tendency.
Select hot food over cold food whenever feasible. Dry cooking methods
(baking, broiling, grilling, sautéing) are preferable for kaphas over moist
cooking such as steaming, boiling or poaching.
As an appetizer eat bitter or pungent foods instead of salty or sour. Foods such
as romaine lettuce, endive, or tonic water are good to stimulate your appetite.
Take ginger tea or a pinch or ginger to stimulate appetite. Other preferred
spices are cumin, fenugreek, sesame seed and turmeric.
Any food that is spicy is good for kaphas such as very hot Mexican or Indian
food, especially in winter.
Foods that are good for kapha breakfast are hot spiced cider, buckwheat
pancakes with apple butter, corn muffins, and bitter cocoa made with skim milk
and a touch of honey. Avoid cold cereals, cold juice or milk, and sugary
pastries. Bacon and sausage aggravates kapha due to their salt and oil. For
kapha types, breakfast is optional. (You may skip it if you like).
To pep you up in the morning, take honey, hot water, lemon juice and ginger.
Try hot ginger tea. Try skipping a meal or two and take a spoonful of honey in
hot water to keep you going.
Kaphas have a sweet tooth. So, cutting down on sugar is difficult for many of
them. Cutting sugar is recommended. Take honey instead. Avoid taking more
than a spoonful of honey a day.
Don't overindulge on dairy foods. Butter, ice cream, and cheese are among the
worst foods you can take as it aggravates the kapha. Take warm low fat milk.
Avoid hamburgers and milk shakes.
Eat raw fruits, vegetables and salads.
Watch out the restaurant foods, especially oily, salty, sweet or deep fried foods
- these are all kapha aggravating. Eat salad with minimum salad dressing.
Take a glass of hot water instead of ice water. Eat salad instead of soup
especially in hot weather.

Summary

Breakfast is usually not necessary. Avoid sugar, fats, dairy products, and salt.
Ghee and oils only in small amounts. Choose light, dry foods. The main meal
should be at the middle of the day, and only a light, dry meal in the evening.

26
Avoid cold foods and drinks. Reduce use of sweet, sour, and salty tastes.
Pungent, astringent, and bitter tastes are all right. All spices.

Food Classified By Group

Vegetables | Fruits | Grains | Dairy | Meat | Beans | Oils | Sweeteners |

Nuts and Seeds | Herbs and Spices

Vegetables
Favor Reduce or Avoid
Pungent and bitter foods such Sweet and juicy vegetables,
as: such as:
asparagus cucumbers
beets sweet potatoes
broccoli tomatoes
Brussels sprouts zucchini
cabbage
carrots
cauliflower
celery
eggplant
garlic
leafy green vegetables
lettuce
mushrooms
okra
onions
peas
peppers
potatoes
radishes
spinach
sprouts

Fruits
Favor Reduce or Avoid
apples avocados
apricots bananas
berries coconut
cherries dates
cranberries fresh figs

27
figs grapefruit
mangoes grapes
peaches melons
pears oranges
prunes papayas
pomegranates pineapples
Dried fruits in general are good plums
for kapha. (apricots, figs, prunes, Avoid sweet, sour, or very juicy
raisins) fruits, in general.

Grains
Favor Reduce or Avoid
barley oats
buckwheat rice
corn wheat, except in small amounts
millet Avoid hot cereals and steamed
oats, dry grains, in general, as they are
rye too moist and heavy for kapha.
basmati rice

Dairy
Favor Reduce or Avoid
warm skim milk All, except as noted
small amounts of whole milk and
eggs (not fried of cooked with
butter)

Meat
Favor Reduce or Avoid
chicken red meat
shrimp seafood in general
turkey
(All in small amounts)

Beans
Favor Reduce or Avoid
All legumes are acceptable kidney beans

28
except kidney beans and tofu tofu

Oils
Favor Reduce or Avoid
almond All, except as noted.
corn
safflower
sunflower
(All in small quantities)

Sweeteners
Favor Reduce or Avoid
Raw, unheated honey All, except honey

Nuts and Seeds

Favor Reduce or Avoid
sunflower seeds All, except sunflower seeds and
pumpkin seeds pumpkin seeds

Herbs and Spices

Favor Reduce or Avoid
All are good. Ginger is especially salt
good for improving digestion

Balanced Tridosha means a Healthy Person

Every person (and thing) contains all three doshas. However, the proportion
varies according to the individual and usually one or two doshas predominate.
Within each person the doshas are continually interacting with one another and
with the doshas in all of nature. This explains why people can have much in
common but also have an endless variety of individual differences in the way
they behave and respond to their environment. Ayurveda recognizes that
different foods, tastes, colors, and sounds affect the doshas in different ways. For

29
example very hot and pungent spices aggravate pitta; but cold, light foods such
as salads calm it down. This ability to affect the doshas is the underlying basis for
Ayurvedic practices and therapies.

A balance among the tridosha is necessary for health. Together, the tridosha
governs all metabolic activities. When their actions in our mind-body constitution
are balanced, we experience psychological and physical wellness. When they
are somewhat unbalanced, we may feel uneasy. When they are more obviously
unbalanced - when one or more of the three dosha influences are excessive or
deficient-discernible symptoms of sickness can be observed and experienced.

Regardless of the percentages of vata, pitta, or kapha influences, your basic

constitution represents your psychological and physical nature. When balance is
maintained, health is at optimum.

Concept of Prakruti and Vikruti

According to Ayurveda, your basic constitution is determined at the time of

conception. This constitution is called Prakruti. The term Prakruti is a Sanskrit
word that means, "nature," "creativity," or "the first creation." One of the very
important concept of Ayurveda is that one's basic constitution is fixed throughout
his lifetime. The combination of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha that was present in the
individual at the time of conception is maintained throughout his lifetime. This is
your base point. Notice that different persons can have different combination of
Vata, Pitta and kapha as their basic constitution or Prakruti. This is how
Ayurveda can explain the subtle differences between individuals and explains
why everyone is unique and that two persons can react very differently when
exposed to the same environment or stimuli. Your Prakruti is unique to you just
as your fingerprint and DNA. Thus, in order to understand a person, it is
necessary to determine his or her Prakruti. HolisticOnLine has developed a
computerized diagnostic system that enables you to determine your Prakruti.

Ideally, your constitution remain fixed throughout your life. Unfortunately, this is
not the case. Every person is subjected to the constant interaction with his or her
environment which will affect the person's constitution at any time. The body will
try to maintain a dynamic equilibrium or balance with the environment. Your
current condition is called your vikruti. Although it reflects your ability to adjust to
life's influences and is always changing, it should match your prakruti, or inborn
constitution, as closely as possible. If the current proportion of your doshas
differs significantly from your constitutional proportion, it indicates imbalances,
which in turn can lead to illness. Farther your Vikruti is from your Prakruti, more ill
you are. Ayurveda teaches that your Vikruti can be changed by means of diet

30
and meditation so as to approach your Prakruti or the state where you have
perfect health.

The concept of Prakruti and Vikruti can be illustrated by reference to our body
temperature. When healthy, we maintain an average body temperature of about
98 degrees. Although, different persons can have different base temperatures, it
does not change much so long as the person is healthy. When we go outside on
a winter day, our body temperature may go down slightly; but will pick right back
up to the normal if we are healthy. Similarly, jogging on a hot day can temporarily
raise our body temperature. When we are sick, or catch a cold, our body
temperature will go up. This indicates that we are sick or outside our normal base
condition. We may take medicine to bring the body temperature back to the
normal range. In analogy to Ayurveda, our present temperature may be
considered as Vikruti and the difference between the Prakruti (our normal
temperature) and Vikruti (our present temperature) can determine whether any
medical intervention is required. Just like an allopathic doctor will take your
temperature and blood pressure routinely as the first step in diagnosing your
condition, Ayurvedic practitioners will determine your Prakruti and Vikruti as the
first step in diagnosing your condition.

Hence prior to embarking on a journey to perfect health and longevity, it is

important that you understand your Prakruti and Vikruti and determine how far
separated these are. Armed with this knowledge, we can map a treatment
strategy. This is the basic premise of Ayurveda. The diagnostic system
developed by HolisticOnline can be utilized to determine both your Prakruti and
Vikruti.

Digestion - The Cornerstone of Health

According to Ayurveda, digestion is the cornerstone of health. Good digestion

nourishes the body. Eating the proper foods will make a big difference in your
well being. There are two aspects to the food and nutrition in Ayurveda. One is
the physical food you eat, digest, and assimilate. In this process, the organs of
your digestive system has a big role. The second aspect of it is what you
consume through your mind-body. What you see, hear, taste, smell, feel, and
think are all important for your well being and impact your health considerably.
For example, stress plays a key role in the health. Ayurveda had recognized the
importance of the environment in the total health. Remember, everything in your
environment is composed of doshas that interact with your own doshas. You are
affected by everything else which goes on in this universe as you are part and
parcel of this cosmos. Thus we have the "big picture" or "holistic outlook" in
Ayurveda.

31
 Digestion - The Cornerstone of Health
Ojas: The Substance That Maintains Life
Ama - Toxins
Malas: Waste Products
Prana: The Life Force

Agni: Your Digestive Fire

Agni in Sanskrit means fire. In Ayurveda, Agni is the digestive and metabolic
"fire" produced by the doshas that grabs the essence of nourishment from food,
feelings, and thoughts and transforms it into a form your body can use. Agni
helps various tissues of the body produce secretions, metabolic reactions, and
other processes needed to create energy and maintain and repair the body. Agni
is also part of the immune system since its heat destroys harmful organisms and
toxins. The activity of agni varies throughout the day and maintaining the strength
and natural ebb and flow of your digestive fires is needed for good digestion,
good immune function, and resistance to disease. Agni is needed to form ojas.

Ojas: The Substance That Maintains Life

Ojas is the by-product of a healthy, efficient, contented physiology. It is the "juice"

that remains after food has been properly digested and assimilated. When you
are producing ojas, it means all your organs have integrated vitality and you are
receiving the nourishment your mind and body need. Your whole being hums
with good vibrations because you are producing and feeling bliss, not pain.
However, when your agni isn't working properly, you don't produce ojas. Instead
food, thoughts, and feelings turn into ama.

Ama - Toxins

Ama originates from improperly digested toxic particles that clog the channels in
your body. Some of these channels are physical and include the intestines,
lymphatic system, arteries and veins, capillaries, and genitourinary tract. Others
are nonphysical channels called nadis (river or stream) through which your
energy flows. Ama toxicity accumulates wherever there is a weakness in the
body, and this will result in disease. Ayurveda offers ways you can cleanse the
body of ama such as Panchakarma. However, it's best to prevent it from forming

32
in the first place. The symptoms such as coating on the tongue or feeling tired all
the time are signs of ama.

Malas: Waste Products

Malas are the waste products of your body and include urine, feces, mucus, and
sweat. Eliminating waste is crucial to good health, but dosha imbalances stifle
the flow of the malas, creating a toxic internal environment. If you are not
eliminating malas, it means you are accumulating ama somewhere in your
system and you may have to undergo Ayurvedic cleansing to get rid of these
toxins from your body.

Prana: The Life Force

Another key concept in Ayurveda is the life force that enters the body at birth,
travels through all the parts of the body until it leaves at the moment of death.
This life force is called prana. Prana strings body, mind, and spirit together like
beads on a strand. Prana is the force necessary to keep the living beings alive.

Prana gets its nutrition through:

The lungs that absorbs the essence found in the air.

The colon that absorbs the prana found in well digested food.

Thus the lungs and the large intestine are closely connected in Ayurveda. They
both supply Prana. For example, a few minutes of slow, deep breathing can
reduce the hunger. Ayurveda is concerned with nourishing both the body as well
as the mind.

Concept of The Six Tastes

To westerners, a balanced diet requires the understanding of the different food

groups, nutrient values of the food and an understanding of the daily
requirements of the food items to get a balanced diet. If a person consistently
eats an unbalanced diet, his health will suffer from the deficiency of the nutrients
to be obtained from the food or from the excess of the nutrients he is taking. (For
example, a diet which is high in saturated fat and red meat is known to cause
hardening and blockage of the arteries ultimately resulting in heart disease.) In
the absence of such sophisticated knowledge as we know on the nutrition
content or requirements and due to the fact that most of the people who lived at
the time Ayurveda was written may not be able to understand a complicated
nutritional requirement, the creators of Ayurveda have developed a very simple

33
dietary program. This is called the six tastes. According to this system, all the
important nutrients that we need for life, such as fats, proteins, carbohydrates,
minerals, vitamins, etc. are contained in a meal that consist of all six tastes.

The six tastes are sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. The food
items that belong to each of these tastes is given in the table.

Any meal that contains food items from all these six tastes will be a balanced
meal. It has all the nutrients for the proper functioning of the body and will
balance all the doshas. This is a very simple system and easy to practice and
follow.

Effects of The Six Tastes: Sweet

Taste: Sweet (Earth + Water)

Property Cooling

Fruits with natural sugar such as peaches, sweet

plums, grapes, melons, and oranges; vegetables
such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets; milk,
butter, and whole grains such as rice and wheat
Source/ bread; herbs and spices such as basil, licorice root,
Example red cloves, peppermint, slippery Elm and fennel.
Ayurveda recommends that you avoid highly
processed sweets such as candy bars and sugar,
which also contain additives, food coloring, and
preservatives.

Effect on Increases
Decreases Vata Decreases Pitta
Tridosha Kapha

Actions Sweet is the taste of pleasure. It makes us feel

comforted and contented. It is one of the most
important healing tools for debilitating weakness in
Ayurveda. Nourishing and strengthening and
promotes growth of all tissues, so is good for
growing children, the elderly, and the weak or
injured. Increases ojas and prolongs life. Good for
hair, skin and complexion, and for healing broken
bones. Adds Wholesomeness to the Body.

34
 Increases Rasa, water and ojas. Relieves thirst:
Creates a burning sensation, Nourishes & soothes
the body.

In excess, sweet taste promotes Kapha imbalances

and disorders such as heaviness, laziness, and
Disorders dullness, colds, obesity, excessive sleeping, loss of
appetite, cough, diabetes, & abnormal growth of
muscles.

Effect of Six Tastes: Sour

Taste: Sour (Earth + Fire)

Property Heating

Yogurt, vinegar, Cheese, sour cream, Green

Grapes, Lemon (and other Citrus fruits), Hibiscus,
Source/
Rose Hips, Tamarind, Pickles, Miso (fermented
Example
soybean paste) and in herbs such as Caraway,
Coriander, and Cloves.

Effect on Increases
Decreases Vata Increases Pitta
Tridosha Kapha

Creates a feeling of adventurousness. Adds

deliciousness to food. Stimulates Appetite &
Sharpens the mind. Strengthens the sense organs.
Actions
Causes secretions & salivation. Is Light, Hot &
Unctuous. Good for the heart, digestion and
assimilation. Helps dispel gas.

Disorders Increases thirst, Sensitivity of teeth, Closure of

eyes, Liquefaction of kapha, Toxicosis of blood,
Edema, Ulceration, Heartburn & Acidity. You
become weak and giddy. It also may cause itching

35
 and irritation, thirst, and blood toxicity.

Effect of Six Tastes: Salty

Taste: Salty (saline) (Water + Fire)

Property Heating

Source/
Table salt, Sea Salt, Rock Salt, Kelp, sea weeds.
Example

Effect on Increases
Decreases Vata Increases Pitta
Tridosha Kapha

A basic unit of electricity, salt helps retain moisture

in vata. Helps digestion. Acts as an Anti-spasmodic
Actions & Laxative. Promotes Salivation, Nullifies the Effect
of All Other Tastes. Retains Water. Heavy.
Unctuous, Hot.

Excess salt can aggravate skin conditions, weaken

the system, cause wrinkling of the skin and graying
and failing out of hair. It promotes inflammatory skin
Disorders
diseases, gout, and other Pitta disorders. Disturbs
Blood, Causes fainting & heating of the body.
Causes peptic ulcer, rash, pimples & hypertension.

Effect of Six Tastes: Bitter

Taste: Bitter (Air + Ether)

Property Cooling

Dandelion Root, Holy Thistle, Yellow Dock,

Source/ Rhubarb, bitter melon, greens such as Romaine
Example lettuce, spinach, and chard, Fresh Turmeric Root,
Fenugreek, Gentian Root.

Effect on Increases Decreases

Decreases Pitta
Tridosha Vata Kapha

Actions Considered to be one of the most healing tastes for

many kind of imbalances in the mind-body. Bitter

36
 foods and herbs are drying and cooling and create
lightness. Promotes other tastes. Acts as an
Antitoxic & Germicidal. Is an antidote for Fainting,
Itching & Burning Sensations in the body. Relieves
thirst. Good for reducing fevers. Promotes
digestion. Cleansing to the blood and helps remove
ama in system.

Too much bitterness can cause dehydration. It can

also Increase roughness, emaciation, dryness.
Disorders
Reduces bone marrow & semen. Can cause
dizziness & Eventual unconsciousness

Effect of Six Tastes: Pungent

Taste: Pungent (Fire + Air)

Property Heating

Source/ Onion, Radish, Chili, Ginger, Garlic, Asafoetida,

Example Cayenne Pepper, black pepper, mustard.

Effect on Decreases
Increases Vata Increases Pitta
Tridosha Kapha

Actions Stimulates appetite and improves digestion. Like

salt and sour, pungent improves the taste of food.
Gives mental clarity. Helps cure Kapha disorders
such as obesity, sluggish digestion, excess water in
the body. Improves circulation. Is germicidal, stops
itching, facilitates sweating and elimination of ama
(toxic accumulations). Keeps the mouth clean.
Purifies the blood, cures skin disease, helps to
eliminate blood clots, cleanses the body. Light, Hot,

37
 Unctuous.

Too much pungent taste can cause weakness,

feeling of weariness, impurities, burning sensations
Disorders
in the body. Increases Heat, sweating, can cause a
peptic ulcer, dizziness & unconsciousness.

Effect of Six Tastes: Astringent

Taste: Astringent (Air+ Earth)

Property Cooling

Unripe Banana, Cranberries, Pomegranate, Myrrh,

Source/
Goldenseal, Turmeric, Okra, Beans, Mace, Parsley,
Example
Saffron, Basil, and Alum.

Effect on Decreases
Increases Vata Decreases Kapha
Tridosha Pitta

Astringent foods and herbs squeeze out water.

Drying and firming, astringent taste stops diarrhea,
reduces sweating, and slows or stops bleeding.
Actions (Causes constriction of blood vessels, Coagulation
of blood.) Anti-inflammatory. Promotes healing. Has
a sedative action, but is constipative, Is Dry, Rough,
Cold.

Excess astringent is weakening and causes

premature aging. Its drying effect causes
constipation and retention of gas. Promotes dry
Disorders
mouth. Promotes Vata disorders such as paralysis
and spasms. Obstruction of speech. Too much
astringent taste can adversely affect the heart.

How The Six Tastes Affect The Doshas

Tastes That Increases Tastes That Decreases

Dosha
Dosha Dosha

Pungent Sweet
Vata Bitter Sour
Astringent Salty

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 Pungent Sweet
Pitta Sour Bitter
Salty Astringent

Sweet Pungent
Kapha Sour Bitter
Salty Astringent

The table above, summarizing how the six tastes affect the doshas, is
very useful in coming up with proper diet in case of imbalances in our
doshas or vikruti. For example, a woman who is a few days away from
her monthly period, will feel bloated from fluid retention. This is also
accompanied by mood change and depression (we call this PMS).
Ayurvedically speaking, these all mean that the Kapha is out of whack,
an excess of Kapha in the system prior to menstruation period.

Looking at the table above we can see that in order to reduce Kapha,
we need to eat Pungent (onions, radishes, garlic, ginger, cumin etc.),
Bitter (green leafy vegetables such as spinach, bitter greens , turmeric)
and astringent foods (such as lentils, broccoli, cabbage etc.). Most of
the people tend to eat sweet foods (candy bar) or salty food (such as
potato chips, salted nuts etc.). This obviously will make things worse.

Similarly, for a person who feels very angry or irritated (signs of Pitta
imbalance), foods that are sweet, bitter or astringent will be helpful.
Herbs can also be used instead of food. Refer to the table for the
appropriate herbs.

How To Use the Information on The Six Tastes To Improve Health

Dr. James Brooks, author of "Ayurvedic Secrets to Longevity and Total Health"
suggested that Ayurvedic principles of six tastes can be used to analyze what is
wrong with the Western diet and why we get into so many problems. Dr. Brooks
notes that the average fast food diet includes only three tastes, sweet, salty and
sour. (The average fast food of a hamburger, French fries, coke and ketchup
have only these three tastes. The meat, bread, and coke are sweet; the fries are
salty; the vinegar in the ketchup is sour.) They are all Vata pacifying. Vata
imbalance is very common in the western society due to the fast pace of life and
the emotional problems such as insecurity, anxiety and emptiness, so common in
our lifestyle. These tastes are attractive to most westerners because being vata
pacifying, they tend to help with these problems. This is why the fast food is so
appealing.

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The problem is that the fast food is not a healthy diet. It has generally too much
fat. It is difficult to digest. It does not contain all the ingredients the body needs
because it is short of three tastes. Such a diet tend to imbalance Kapha,
characterized by lethargy, overweight, depression, mental dullness, and
greediness.

Dr. Brooks also suggests that nutritional imbalance can lead to addictive
behavior of all kinds. The mind/body system feels dissatisfied and is craving for
something. The person does not know what is missing. This, left untreated, can
result in addiction (not necessarily just in food). Addiction may be in tobacco,
alcohol, drugs, sex, excitement, shopping, etc. The answer to this is to eat a
balanced diet incorporating all the six tastes. This tend to balance our tridoshas
and we feel mentally and physically satisfied.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Excessive Sleep

For most of us, the problem is not getting enough sleep. However, for
some it is too much sleep. Some people want to sleep 9, 10, or more
hours every night. In spite of this, they still feel heavy and sleepy when
they get up in the morning and show all signs of lack of sleep such as:
yawn all day long, feel like taking a nap in the afternoon, etc.

Excessive sleep is caused by an aggravated Kapha. Kapha dosha is

heavy and dull, and an excess of it in our system makes us feel slow
and lazy.

The solution to excess sleep is simply to follow a Kapha- pacifying diet and daily
routine.

Eat a diet that is lighter.

Cut down on sweets, dairy, pasta and other wheat products, and
meat.
Eat warm food that is as free as possible of oils, dairy, and sugar.
Spicy food, such as Indian or Mexican, is good for you. But stay away
from deep-fried or cheese-laden choices.
Small salads are good. It will help curb your appetite.
Start each meal with half a teaspoon of grated ginger mixed with
lemon juice and a very little salt.
Don't eat any rich, creamy desserts.
Get some vigorous exercise for at least half an hour every day during
the Kapha period of the morning, between 6:00 and 10:00 A.M.
Ginger tea in the morning and late afternoon is good for combating
drowsiness.

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