AYUR VEDA – THE SCIENCE OF LIFE OR LONGIVITY

“Ayurveda is the science that indicates the appropriate and inappropriate, happy or sorrowful
conditions of living, what is auspicious or inauspicious for longevity, as well as the measure of life
itself”. CHARAKA SAMHITA 1.41
An Introduction:
Ayurveda is one of the oldest systems of medicine that is still continuously in practice in the world.
It is a science of life or longevity. It is a holistic system that takes care of all aspects of human health. It
is system for maintaining health and curing disease through adherence to natural rhythms and cycles.
It employs a variety of natural means to bring harmony to the physiology including diet, herbs,
minerals, exercise, mediation, yoga mental hygiene, sounds, smells and mechano-procedures to
eliminate toxic substances from the body.
Ayurveda and Yoga:
Ayurveda is an aspect of yoga and is most allied with Hata-yoga, the Yoga of physical body with
which it can be combined. While Hata-Yoga provides us the exercises for physical health, flexibility and
dissolution of tension, Ayurveda gives us the knowledge of how to care our body in terms of diet and
medicine. Both serve as means of harmonizing the physical body so that the power of our inner
consciousness can come into action through it.
Ayurveda - the Nature’s Medicine:
Ayurveda is the medicine of nature, the medicine of life. In this context it tries to present us the
principles and powers of nature herself. It teaches us to put into practice Nature’s greatest principles
of health and natural living. It employs the language of Nature; an energetic system of elements and
biological humors.

Ayurveda and Self healing:

Ayurveda is a form of Naturalistic Medicine or Naturopathy; it is nature herself that heals. We
should assist in this healing process by attuning ourselves to the natural movements. Ayurveda
emphasis the balance of the life-force with in us as the basis of all treatments.
It is important to know one’s own body constitution in the light of Ayurveda and adjust one’s diet
and life style to lead a healthy and peaceful life. Ayurveda states that what we eat and how we live
everyday is more significant in determining our health than what we do once in a while. It provides us
with a complete life-regime through an integrated science of life-style counseling that deals with body

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and mind, and with both the individual and society. Its goal is not to suppress our symptoms but to
give us the tools to understand our nature and live in harmony with it.
Ayurveda is most honest form of medicine and the one which does not take power over us. If we
begin to apply its tools in our own lives we will get great results but only if we do so in harmony with
nature and through the course of time with the appropriate adjustments to the rhythms of life.

DEFINITION OF HEALTH ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA

Ayur veda defines Health as;
Samadosha samagnischa sama dhatu malakriyaah|
Prasanna atmendriya kriyaah svasthya ityuchete ||
Sama dosha = having balanced Doshas.
Samagnischa = Having balanced Digestive Fire, (Good digestion) and absorption.
Sama dhathu = Balanced tissue building.
Mala kriyaah = having proper elimination of waste material from the body.
Prasannatmendriya manah = having perfect mind, sense organs without any psychological problem.
Healthy person is one who has balanced doshas, balanced digestive fires, balanced tissue buildup,
proper elimination of waste material from the body and who has perfect mind, sense organs without
any mental and psychological problems.

Main Principles of Ayur veda:

1. Ayur veda is developed on the basis of Five elements model.
2. It is based on Tri- dosha, sapta dhatu, tri malas, and six tasts of the food.
3. Any disease occur due to the increase or decrease of Dhatus, doshas , malas.
4. We can prevent the disease by maintaining harmony among them.

The Tri Doshas –The Three Biological Humors

According to Ayurveda, the human body is ruled by three fundamental life-forces: Vata, Pitta and
Kapha. These are often translated as Wind, Bile and Phlegm. Vata is also often called as biological air-
humor, Pitta the biological –fire-humor and Kapha the biological water-humor.
Note: 1. The tri- doshas are functional units of human beings, they are not structural units.
2. Wind, bile and Phlegm are only manifestations of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, there are only
expressions of Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
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 The humors are called Doshas in Sanskrit, meaning what spoils or causes decay, as they are not only
the forces which produce and sustain the body in their normal condition but those which when out of
balance, serve to destroy it. Death is inherent in life. Even our normal process of metabolism is not
only growing new cells but causing old cells to die and be discarded. Growing and life must eventually
turn into decay and death. Health in the body thus consists in the right balance of the creative and
destructive forces of the doshas.

The Theory of Three Doshas

The physiological and pathological principals of the entire Ayurveda are depending upon the theory
of these tri-doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha or Sleshma. These three are the main principles to protect
the body and maintain normal state. At the same time, when the 3 doshas are deranged or vitiated we
suffer from number of diseases.
According the Ayurveda, The Moon, the Sun and the Wind are maintaining the balance of the world
by energy generation, energy utilization and energy distribution. The same is the case with Kapha, Pitta
and Vata, in maintaining the structural and functional integrity of the body.
One of the three, the Vata plays a major role because the other two cannot move on their own and
only Vata has the capacity to move and also helps in the movement of other two Doshas. Pitta helps in
the metabolism specifically digestion and kapha or Sleshma helps in the maintenance and integrity of
the body tissues.

How The Doshas Behave:

The Doshas increase or decrease in their quantity depending upon many factors both externally and
internally. They are:-
I st part of life -- Childhood -- Kapha is predominant
II nd part of life -- Middle age -- Pitta is predominant
IIIrd part of life -- Olf age -- Vata is predominant
I st part of the day -- Morning -- Kapha is predominant
II nd part of the day -- Noon -- Pitta is predominant
IIIrd part of the day -- Evening -- Vata is predominant
I st part of the night -- Early night -- Kapha is predominant
II nd part of the night -- Midnight -- Pitta is predominant
IIIrd part of the nigh -- Last part of the night -- Vata is predominant
After the Food Intake:
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1st 2 hours of Food - Kapha is predominant
2nd 2 hours of Food - Pitta is Predominant
3rd 2 hours of Food - Vata is predominant
This is in one way indicating the pulsative nature of the doshas and at no time in the day or night
the quantity of vata, Pitta and kapha remain the same. Also there is domination of each Dosha
according to the Season.
Definition of Doshas
That which bear or sustain the integrity of the body and cause disease if vitiated or deranged.
Vata-Dosha: Vata means movement and pressure. So, we can understand that, what ever functions of
movement and pressure are there in the body, they are due to Vata.
General Place of Vata in our Body:
1. Pakvashaya - Large intestines.
2. Kati – Pelvic area
3. Sakthi – Lumber and thighs
4. Shrotra – Ears
5. Asthi – Bones
6. Sparshanendriyam – Skin

Properties of Vata:

1. Sukshma – Dryness
2. Laghu – Lightness
3. Sheetaa - Coldness
4. Khara - Roughness
5. Sukshma – Penetration
6. Chala – Movement

Functions of Vata
1. Utsahaa – Energy
2. Ucchvasa-nisvaasah – Process of respiration
3. Chesta – Movements
4. Samadhatu gathi - Maintenance and proper nourishment of body tissues.
5. Samo moksho - Contractions and relaxations of body structures.
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Major classifications of Vata

1. Prana Vata - it is situated in the head and moves in neck and thorax. It maintains Buddhi,
the intellect, sustains sense organs and mind.

2. Apana Vata - situated in the Pelvis, bladder, reproductive organs and thighs. It helps in the
excretion and elimination of Sukra, Artava, Pureesha, Mutra and Garbha. It helps in
downward movement of the body.

3. Udana vata – it is situated in the thorax and moves from nose to neck to umbilicus. It helps
in speech, energy respiration, strength, skin complexion and remembrance.
4. Samana vata- it is situated in the intenstine and helps in the blowing of agni. It collects,
digests, and separates and excretes the food from the stomach.

5. Vyana Vata – it is situated in Heart region and it has got a very high speed, it helps in body
functions like contractions, relaxations, opening and closing of lids.

What happens if Vaata is increased?

1. The person is emaciated.

2. His complexion is reduced.
3. Wishes to enjoy hot climates.
4. Tremors or shaking of the body occurs.
5. Sleeplessness occurs.
6. Loss of strength and vigor.
7. Excessive talk.
8. Weakness.

What happens if Vata is Reduced ?

1. Weakness of limbs and the body.

2. Unable to talk in loud voice.
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 3. Drowsiness and semi loss of consciousness.

PITTA DOSHA
Pitta is a substance , which maintains the prober body temperature and helps in digestion and
metabolism of the body. Without Pitta the food that we eat cannot be digested or metabolized.
Functions of Pitta
It helps in vision, digestion, body temperature, appetite, and thirst, smoothness of the body luster or
shining, brightness, and intellect.

General Places of Pitta in Our body

1. Nabhi – Umblical area
2. Amaashaya – Stomach
3. Sveda – Sweat
4. Lasikaa – Lymph
5. Rudhiram – Blood
6. Rasah – Rasa dhatu
7. Drk – eyes
8. Sparshana - Skin

Properties of Pitta
1. Sneha – oily
2. Tikshna – Piercing
3. Ushna – Hot
4. Laghu – Light
5. Visra - Smelling
6. Sara and Drava – Fluidity
Major Classifications of Pitta

1. Pachaka pitta :- it is situated between large intestine and stomach, i.e.,small intenstines and
predominant of Fire element. Digests the entire food. Separates into absorbable and waste
material.

2. Ranjaka Pitta :- it is situated in the stomach and gives color to Rasadhatu to convert itsef as
Blood, i.e., it helps in the blood formation.

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 3. Sadhaka Pitta:- it is situated in heart and helps in achieving our goals by increasing Intellect,
Medha and Self – confidence.

4. Alochaka Pitta:- It is situated in the Eyes and helps in the process of vision.

5. Bhrajaka Pitta:- it is situated in the skin and gives luster and smoothness to the skin.

What Happens If Pitta is Increased?

Eyes and skin become yellow. Appetite is very high, the person suffers from severe thirst and loss of
luster.

What Happens If Pitta is decreased?

Loss of appetite, improper digestion, loss of temperature and loss of luster and shine.

KAPHA OR SLESHMA DOSHA

Kapha :- predominantly produced from water sources and is full of water or its major constituents is
water.
It helps in binding, joining, union of tissues, bones, cells, organs and other structures of the body.
Functions of Kapha

1. Sneha – gives lubrication to body tissues.

2. Bandha - Provides stability and binds.
3. Sthiratva - Fixes with other tissues.
4. Gaurava - hearing capacity
5. Vrshata - Sexual capacity
6. Balam - Immunity and strength.
7. Kshama - Capacity to perform difficult tasks.

Properties of Kapha
1. Snigdha - Oily and sticky
2. Sheetha - Cold
3. Gurutva - Heavyness
4. Manda - Slow
5. Slakshna – Soft
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 6. Sthira - Stable
General or common places of Kapha
1. Uras – Throax
2. Kantha - Neck
3. Vagola - Pancreas
4. Parvani – joints
5. Amaashaya - stomach
6. Rasah - rasadhatu
7. Medah - Fat stores of the body
8. Ghrana - Nose
9. Jihvaa - Tongue

Major classifications of Kapha

1. Avalambaka – it is situated in thorax. Helps in maintaining the body fluid and water
metabolism. It gives strength to other Kapha sources.
2. Kledha kapha - it is situated in the stomach. Helps in Bowl formation and moisturing of food.
3. Bodhaka kapha - it is situated in the tongue and helps in the taste perception.
4. Tarpaka kapha - it is situated in the head and give support to five sense organs.
5. Sleshaka kapha - it is situated in the bone joints and helps in their lubrication and proper
maintenance.

What happens when Kapha is increased?

Loss of appetite, watering of mouth, laziness, loss of body temperature, breathlessness, excess sleep,
cough and loss of strength.
What happens when Kapha is increased?
Vertigo, palpitation (feeling one’s own heart beat), pain and relaxation of joints and tissues.

TRIMALAS - the three Malas

The root meaning of Mala is that which sustain the body.
Trimalas are also important components in our body. They constitute the body and helps normal
functioning. They are:-
1. Pureesha – Stools and Feces
2. Mutra - Urine
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 3. Sweda - sweat
NOTE: Stools, Urine and sweat are only functional units of the “trimalas,” not structural units. They
are the vehicles to which excess of Vata, pitta and Kapha are eliminated.

Functions of Mala
1. Mala – avastambhah purishasya:- Pureesha sustains the body by maintaining the water levels
and fat levels also by sustaining Agni, the digestive fire and helping the proper digestion.
If it is increased, dysfunctions, sounds, laziness and pain will occur.
If it is decrease, severe pain in the abdomen will occur.
NOTE : Mala or Purisha is a vehicle through which the excess of Toxin part of Vayu and Agni is
eliminated.
2. Mutra - Mutrasya kleda vaahanam:- Mutra helps in maintaining and carrying out the fluid
levels of the body.
if it is increased, there will be pain in the lower abdomen and the person feels to pass urine
frequently.
If it is decreased, the quantity of urine will be less and one may passes blood with urine.
NOTE : Mutra is a vehicle through which “MalarupaKapha,” the excess of Toxin part of Kapha is
eliminated.

3. Sveda – svedasya kleda vidhrtih :- Sweda maintains the moisture content of the skin and helps
in maintaining the hair follicles (a spherical group of cells containing a cavity).
if it is increased, itching and smell of the skin will occur.
If it is decreased, loss of hair follicles and cracks in the skin will occur.

NOTE : Sweat is a vehicle through which the excess of Toxin part of Pitta is eliminated.

THE THEORY OF SAPTA DHATU- SEVEN TISSUES

The root derivation of dhatu: – Du-Dhhai- Dharana poshanayoh, which means the component
which help in maintenance, enrichment, sustenance and nourishment of the human body.
The Dhatus are Seven in Number.
1. Rasa Dhatu (Plasma Tissue): its function is Prinana- to nourish and supply nutrients to
other tissues. If it is increased, loss of appetite, drowsiness, laziness, and heaviness occur. If

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 it is decreased, body becomes rough, one will be easily tired, loss of body weight, irritability
will occur.
2. Rakta Dhatu (Blood): its function is Jivana - to give life or sustenance to our body. If it is
decreased or vitiated one will suffer from different skin diseases, Jaundice, drowsiness and
reddishness of eyes will occur. If it is decreased, one will be dry, rough and one’s blood
vessels become brittle.
3. Mamsa Dhatu(Muscle tissue): This is muscle tissue. Its function is Lepa- to cover the body
and give it a shape. If it is increased, there will be excessive tissue development. If it is
decreased bone pain and sensory tiredness will occur.
4. Medha Dhatu (Fat and adipose Tissue) : it is a Fat and adipose tissue. Its function is Sneha-
to provide oil and fat resources to the body to keep the skin moisture intact.
If it is increased, breathlessness and irregular growth of the body occur.
If it is decreased, body is emaciated and one’s liver and spleen are increased in size.
5. Asthi Dhatu (Bone-Tissue): It is a bone tissue. It’s function is Dharana- to give a shape to the
body and structure in entire organs.
If it is increased, excessive bone growth will occur. If it is decreased, pains in the bone and
loss of hair, teeth and nails will occur.
6. Majja Dhatu(Bone marrow tissue): it is Bone Marrow, its function is Purana – to fill the
bones. If it is increased heavy secretions from eyes will occur, body becomes heavy, joints
enlarge in size. If it is decreased, bones become porous and hallow and he suffers from
Vertigo.
7. Sukra Dhatu (Reproductive tissues): it is seminal fluid. Its function is reproduction. If it is
increased, it causes stone formation in the reproductive tissues and sexual urge. If it is
decreased, one is not able to transfer reproductive fluids or there will be bleeding and pain
while transferring seminal fluids.

OJAS- THE ESSENCE OF SEVEN DHATUS

1. Ojas is the essence or subtle form of Seven Dhatus.
2. It is situated in the heart and helps in providing immunity to the body.
3. It is decreased when nutrition is not proper or if the person is suffering from mental
ailments like irrational fears and Anger etc.
NOTE :
1. Tri – Doshas have relationships with Seven Dhatus.
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 2. Doshas and Dhatus must be qualitatively and quantitatively normal to achieve good
health.

THE THEORY OF SHADRASAS – THE SIX TASTS

Rasa is perception of taste by the tongue. We can perceive the taste when certain thing comes
in contact with our tongue. Different substances have different physical and chemical
combinations. So, different tastes are present in the universe. Ayurveda explains the reasons of
different tastes, depending upon the composition of Pancha Maha Bhutas- the Five Great
Eliments- Space,Wind,
Fire, Water and Earth. To form a Rasa, the water element and Earth element play a major role
and the other three help.

There are six Rasas according to Charaka:

1.Madhura Rasa – Sweat taste: it helps in tissue build up, useful for all. Good for the mind and
tissues and nourishing. Helps in increasing body weight. Useful in growth of the body, senses and
hair. Helps in proper voice and extends our life span. If it is taken in excessive, one suffers from
Meda (fat) and Kapha diseases like obesity, diabetics, excessive sleep, impaired digestion, urinary
disturbances and respiratory distresses.
At mental level – it will cause greed and possessiveness.
2. Amla Rasa – Sour taste: - it helps in digestion and increase of appetite. Increases taste
perception, causes secretions, lightness of the body.
If taken excessively, Kapha, Pitta and Rakta diseases will occur and one suffers from Vertigo, Loss
of sensory functions and tissue loss will occur. Excessive Amla also causes liquefaction of Kapha,
burning sensation, blood related skin diseases, acidity, sleeplessness, acid-peptic syndrome. At
mental level it causes excessively anchoring, mental thirst, and jealousy.
3. Lavana Rasa – Salty taste: it relives rigidity, and allows movements and increase taste
perception and digestion. It produces retention of fluids and reduces Vayu and increase Kapha
and Pitta. Increases mucus secretions. Increases sweat. Helps in absorption. If taken in excess,
skin is bolded and hair becomes grayish. Loss of strength and skin diseases will occur. It also
causes loss of hair (alopecia), impotency, , fatigue, irritability, bleeding diseases and life span is
reduced. At mental level it causes emotional weakness and irritability.

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 4. Katu Rasa – Pungent (Spicy)Taste : it relives throat and skin diseases, helps in digestion, works as
anti-inflammatory, cures wounds and ulcers, absorbs food, reduces fat and mucus secretion.
Increases taste perception. Reduces Kapha and increases vata and pitta. If taken in excess, Bala
and Sukra are reduced(Degenerative). One suffers from tremors and pain and cramps in the legs
occur. The person is emaciated and weakened. At mental level excitement and irritability will
occur.
5. Tikta Rasa – Bitter taste: though it is a unpleasant taste, it relives bad taste and increases taste
perception. Kills worms, relives toxins, and helps in drying off or absorption of body fluids-
reduces Kapha, meda, Majja, Pureesha and Mutra. If taken in excess, Vata diseases and loss
weight will occur.
6. Kashaya Rasa - Astringent taste: it decreases Pitta and Kapha, purifies blood, heals ulcers, has a
cooling effect, reduces Meda, and absorbs secretions, very good for healthy skin. If taken
excessively, one suffers from dysfunction of abdomen, heart pain, obstruction of secretions,
severe thirst, loss of potency and body chemicals are narrowed. Stiffness of joints, depletion,
circulatory diseases will occur. At mental level – anxiety, fear and insecurity is felt.

CONSTITUTIONAL TYPES
According to AyurVeda, each individual is having unique combination and proportion of the biological
humors.
Basic Classification:
I. People of Vata Predominant – their features:
Physical Features
1. Unusually tall or short and enlarged face.
2. Body is thin, lean and bony with predominant veins.
3. Having poor tissue development.
4. Dull complexion/ lacking brightness in the body.
5. Brown or dark complexion.
6. Dry and cracked skin.
7. Possess variable appetites.
8. Tend towards constipation or hard stool.
9. Having scanty sweat or urination.
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 10. Intolerant of cold and wind.
11. Though having immediate energy, have low endurance, and stamina.
12. Less hair on the head and in the body.
13. Adipose tissues will be less.
14. Eyes will be turbid and shrunken.
15. Ears: big, long prominent.
16. Eyes: turbid, shrunken and without luster.
17. Teeth: uneven; Nails: crooked and improperly grown;
18. Legs: long; fingers: lengthy and elongated.

Psychological Features
1. Nervous, hyperactive, excitable and suffer from restlessness.
2. May suffer from insomnia or disturbed sleep.
3. Sleep less, (4-5 hours only but with disturbances).
4. Changeable, curious and adaptable.
5. Sensitive and quick minded personality.
6. Reflexes are often talkative and absent minded.
7. Tend towards insecurity feelings.
8. Exhibit fear and anxiety when emotionally out of balance.
9. Can be easily disturbed and prone to worry.
10. Live in one’s imaginary world, even if somebody interferes for some time, again they come back
to their own imaginary world.
11. MEMORY : They quickly understand everything but immediately forget.
12. FINANCIAL STATUS: They earn a lot but cannot save and spend it quickly.

VATA people tend towards the following diseases

1. Nervous system disorders/ neurological disorders.
2. Anxiety attacks, insomnia, arthritis and constipation.
3. Most diseases of old age are Vata in nature, like ostio -arthritis etc.,.
4. Vata has the greatest number of diseases because, as it is the most fundamental constituent
of tri-doshas, its imbalance can have greater consequences.

RECOMMENDED DIET FOR VATA PEOPLE

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 1. Tasts: Salty, sour and sweet
2. Mangoes, nuts, hot foods, wheat and wheat products.
3. Onion and garlic, coriander, asafetida.
4. Pomegranates, sesame seeds and sesame oil.
5. Almonds, jiggery, milk and yogurt.
6. Warm water.

II. PEOPLE OF PITTA PREDOMINENT :

Physical Features:-
1. Moderate in body built and height with good muscules.
2. They have good circulation, warm and oily skin.
3. Ruddy complexion with possible redness of face and eyes.
4. Have delicate, and pale hair, develop premature grey hair or baldness.
5. Have sharp appetite and thirst and sweat easily.
6. They tend towards loose elimination of bowls and profuse urination and commonly have yellow
discoloration of the stool and urine.
7. They are intolerant of heat and sun and may bleed easily.
8. They sleep 6 – 7 hours but with disturbances.

PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES
1. Aggressive, dominating with leadership potentials.
2. Good speakers and works.
3. They are critical, perceptive, intelligent and have sharp memories.
4. They tend towards irritability and anger when emotionally out of balance.
5. Prone to conflict and argument.
6. See light related phenomena in dreams.

PITTA PEOPLE TEND TOWARDS THE FOLLOWING DESEASES

1. Fever, infection and inflammatory diseases.
2. Hyper acidity, ulcers and skin rashes.
3. Bleeding disorders and liver problems.

RECOMMENDED DIET FOR PITTA PEOPLE

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 1. Should take more bitter, sweet and cool foods.
2. Barli and wheat items.
3. Watermelon, asparagus, pumpkin, grapes ,bananas, goose berry and pineapple.
4. Coconuts(good diet for acidity, hyper activity of pitta) , Clarified butter and milk.
5. Turmeric, sesame oil.

III. PEOPLE OF KAPHA PREDOMINENT

Physical Features:
1. Well body built with good tissue development. Tend towards over weight.
2. They have white, pale and moist skin.
3. Abundant and thick hair with less hair loss.
4. They have constant appetite and slow metabolism.
5. They have abundant bodily secretions and often have too much mucus secretions in their
system.
6. They are intolerant of cold and damp atmospheres.
7. Slow in movement and find it difficult to get going but possess good endurance.
8. Generally have strong immune system.
9. They have good sleep- if allowed, they can sleep many hours.
10. They are fond of spicy foods.
11. Body: bulk and heavy; Legs: flat and …….; Ears: small and heavy; Eyes: white.
12. Teeth: well built and uniform; Fingers: puffy ; Nails: well defined. Face: round.
Psychological Features :
1. Calm, stable, devoted, loyal with slow but steady minds and memory.
2. May suffer from lethargy, lack of motivation or excess sleep.
3. Their emotional imbalances are towards greed, attachment, and depression.
4. They can be possessive or sentimental.
5. MEMORY: long term memory is more (it takes some time for them to understand things but
they remember for a long time)
6. FINANCIAL STATUS: Earning is slow by but spend very little.

KAPHA TEND TOWARDS THE FOLLOWING DIS-ORDERS

1. Cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, Senile Dementia and like.

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 2. Colds, flues, bronchitis, Pneumonia and disease of edema (Swelling from excessive
accumulation of serous fluid in tissue) and excessive water in the body.
NOTE: Though each type may get any disease, but each tends more towards diseases of its same
quality.

Recommended diet for Kapha People:

1. Pungent, bitter and astringent foods.
2. Hot foods and Barli.
3. Horse gram (reduces L.D.L, Tri-glisarides and increases high density lepo-proteins)
4. Honey (reduces weight)
5. Pomegranate.
6. Warm water.

SIX TASTES AND TRI DOSHAS

Ayurveda recognized six tastes in food and herbs.
1. Sweet, salty, sour, pungent, bitter and Astringent.
2. Three tastes increase and Three tastes decrease each of the Doshas.
3. These six tastes influence the five elements, which are manifested in the form of tri doshas.

DOSHAS INCREASED BY THESE TASTES DECREASED BY THESE TASTES

Vata Bitter, astringent and pungent Sweet, salty, and sour

Pitta Pungent, Sour and Salt Bitter, Astringent and Sweet
Kapha Sweet, salty, and sour Bitter, astringent and pungent

If Vata is more in a person, he must take – sweet, sour and salt foods more.
If Kapha is more in a person, he must take – Pungent, bitter and astringent foods more.
It Pitta is more in a person, he must take – Astringent, bitter and sweet food more.

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 KNOW YOUR CONSTITUTIOIN - The Constitutional Examination
(Determining your Unique mind-Body Type)
The constitutional approach is the essence of Ayurveda. It gives Ayurveda a broad powers for
disease prevention, health maintenance and longevity enhancement, as well as for the treatment of
disease. Through it, we prescribe a life plan for each individual to optimize our human and creative
potential. It also allows us to apply Ayurveda along non-medical lines as a form of health education
and life-style counseling.
In this regard, the first step in the treatment of Ayurveda is to ascertain the natural constitution of
the individual according to the predominant dosha as Vata, Pitta or Kapha. The predominant dosha, in
turn, reflects the main energies and qualities within the individual and their tendencies to either
health or disease.
Each one of us possesses all three doshas in our physical makeup. Vata governs our energies and
activities, giving us our air. Pitta gives us our warmth and capacity to transform substances in the
body, our fire. Kapha makes up our flesh and our secretions, the water in our body. We each replicate
the great cosmic forces and through them our own psychology. However, the proportion of the doshas
varies according to the individual. One dosha will usually predominate and place its mark upon us in
terms of our appearance and disposition.
Some individuals are strongly predominant in one dosha or another. These can be said as the
following types -
1. PURE VATA (pure Air)
2. PURE PITTA (pure fire)
3. PURE KAPHA (pure water)
However, mixed types also exist, when two or more doshas stand in relatively equal proportion.
Therefore, THREE different dual types exist as-
1. VATA - PITTA (air-fire)
2. VATA – KAPHA (air-water)
3. PITTA – KAPHA (fire-water )
An even type or VPK type is also found , that is -
1. VATA –PITTA- KAPHA ( air- fire- water)
Hence, there are seven Major types in all.
The other way of checking the constitutional type is by giving number to represent the
proportion of Vata, Pitta and Kapha in the body or in the disease process. Like-

17
 Vata 4, Pitta 2, Kapha – 1, showing a high Vata state.
NOTE:-
1. Mixed types do not necessarily indicate better or worse health.
2. However, they do serve, to complicate treatment.
 Efforts to balance one dosha may aggravate another. Therefore, for dual types, it is often
better to try to raise the third dosha, the one that is too low. For example –
1. Vata- Pitta (air-fire) types should try to increase Kapha (Water)
2. Pitta- kapha (fire- water) typers should try to increase Vata (air)
3. Vata-Kapha (air-water) types should aim at developing Pitta (fire)
In this way it will be easier to understand which quality need to be balanced.

BODILY STRUCTURE AND APPEARANCE

VATA PITTA KAPHA
Unusually toll or short, thin, Medium built, Stout, stocky, short, big
BODY BUILT poorly developed physique moderately developed and well developed
physique physique
Low, hard to hold weight, Moderate , good Heavy, tends towards
WEIGHT
prominent veins and bones muscles obesity
Dull, brown, darkish Red, ruddy, flushed, White, pale
COMPLEXION
glowing
SKIN TEXTURE Thin, dry, cold, rough, cracked, Warm, moist, pink, with Thick, white, moist,
AND prominent veins moles, freckles, acne cold, soft, smooth
TEMPERATURE
Scanty, coarse, dry, brown, Moderate, fine, soft, Abundant, oily, thick,
HAIR
slightly wavy early gray or bald very wavy, lustrous
HEAD Small, thin, long, unsteady moderate Large, stocky, steady
FOREHEAD Small, wrinkled Moderate, with folds Large, broad
Thin, small, long, wrinkled, Moderate, ruddy, sharp Large, round, fat, white
FACE
dusky, dull contours or pale, soft contours
NECK Thin, long medium Large, thick
Small, thin, unsteady Moderate, fine Think, bushy, many
EYEBROWS
hairs
EYELASHES Small, dry, firm Small, thin, fine Large, thick, oily, firm
Small, dry, thin, brown, dull, Medium, thin, red Wide, prominent, thick,
EYES unsteady (inflamed easily) green, oily, white, attractive
piercing
NOSE Thin, small, long, dry, crooked medium Thick, big, firm, oily
LIPS Thin, small, darkish, dry, Medium, soft, red Thick, large, oily,

18
 unsteady smooth, firm
TEETH AND Thin,dry, small, rough, Medium, soft, pink, Large, thick, soft, pink,
GUMS crooked, receding gums gums bleed easily oily
SHOULDERS Thin, small, flat, hunched medium Broad, thick, firm, oily
Thin, small, narrow, poorly medium Broad, large, well or
CHEST
developed overly developed
Thin, overly small or long, medium Large, thick, round, well
ARMS
poorly developed developed
Small, thin, cold, rough, Medium, warm, pink Large, thick, oily, cool,
HANDS
fissured, unsteady firm
Thin, narrow medium Well-developed, rount,
THIGHS
fat
Thin, excessively large or short medium Large, stocky
LEGS
,prominent knees
CALVES Small, hard, tight Loose, soft Large, think, hard, firm
Small, thin, long, dry, rough, Medium, soft, pink Large, thick, hard, firm
FEET
fissured, unsteady.
Small, thin, dry, unsteady, Medium, soft, loose Large, thick, well built
JOINTS
cracking
Small, thin, dry, rough, Medium, soft, pink Large, thick, smooth,
NAILS
fissured, cracked, darkish white, firm, oily.

WASTE MATERIAL/ METABOLISM

VATA PITTA KAPHA
Scanty, difficult, colorless Profuse, yellow, red Moderate, whitish,
URINE
burning milky
Scanty, dry, hard, difficult Abundant, loose, Moderate, solid,
FECES or painful ,gas, yellowish, diarrhea, sometimes pale in color
constipation with burning sensation mucus in stool
Scanty, no smell Profuse, hot, strong Moderate, cold,
SWEAT/BODY ODOR
smell pleasant smell
APPETITE Variable, erratic Strong, sharp Constant, low
Prefers sweet, bitter, or Prefers pungent, bitter
Prefers sweet, sour or
astringent food, raw, or astringent food,
TASTE PERCEPTION salty food, cooked with oil
lightly cooked without cooked with spices but
and spiced
spices not oil
Good, warm, slow,
CIRCULATION Poor, variable, erratic Good, warm
steady

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
19
 VATA PITTA KAPHA
ACTIVITY Quick, fast, unsteady, Medium, motivated, Slow, steady, strong,
erratic, hyperactive purposeful, goal good
seeking
STRENGTH/ Low, poor endurance, starts Medium, intolerant of Endurance but slow
ENDURANCE and stops quickly heat in starting

SEXUAL NATURE Variable, erratic, deviant, Moderate, Low but constant

strong desire but low energy passionate, sexual desire, good
dominating energy, devoted
SENSITIVITY Fear of cold, wind, sensitive Fear of heat, dislike Fear of cold, damp,
to dryness or sun, fire likes wind and sun
RESISTENCE TO Poor, variable, weak immune Medium, prone to Good, prone to
DISEASE system infections congestive disorders

DISEASE TENDENCY Nervous system diseases, Fevers, infections, Respiratory system

pain, arthritis, mental inflammatory diseases, mucus,
disorders diseases edema
REACTION TO Quick, low dosage needed, Slow, high dosage
Medium , average
MEDICATIONS unexpected side effects or required, effects slow
dosage
nervous reactions to manifest.
PULSE Deep, slow, steady,
Thready, rapid, superficial, Wiry, bounding,
rolling, slippery/ like a
irregular, weak/ like a snake moderate/ like a frog
swan

MENTAL FACTORS AND EXPRESSIONS

VATA PITTA KAPHA
VOICE Low, weak, hoarse High pitch, sharp, Pleasant, deep, good
moderate, good tone
SPEECH Quick, inconsistent, Moderate, Slow, definite, not
erratic, talkative argumentative, talkative
convincing
MENTAL NATURE Quick, adaptable, Intelligent, critical Slow, steady, dull
indecisive,
MEMORY Poor, easily understands Sharp, clear Slow in understanding
but quickly forgets but remembers for a
long.
FINANCES Earns and spends Spends on specific Holds on to what one
quickly, erratically goals, causes or earns, particularly
projects property, less spending
EMOTIONAL Fearful, anxious, nervous Angry, irritable, Calm, content, attached,
TENDENCIES contentious sentimental

20
 NEUROTIC Hysteria, trembling, Extreme temper, rage, Depressive,
TENDENCES anxiety attacks tantrums unresponsiveness,
sorrow
FAITH Erratic, changeable, Determined, fanatical, Constant, loyal,
rebel leader conservative
SLEEP Light, tends towards Moderate, may wake Heavy, difficult in
insomnia (5-6 hrs of up but will fall asleep waking up (7-8 hrs of
disturbed sleep) again (6-7 hrs of sleep good sleep)
with less disturbance)
DREAMS Flying, moving, restless, Colorful, passionate, Romantic, sentimental,
nightmares conflict watery, few dreams
HABITS Likes speed, travelling, Likes competitive Likes water, sailing,
parks, plays, jokes, sports, debates, flowers, cosmetics,
stories, trivia, artistic politics, hunting, business ventures,
activities, dancing research cooking.

TOTAL (50) V------------------------ P------------------------ K------------------------

***************************

GUNA TYPES AND DISEASE POTENTIALS

All the mental moods of all the people of all times can be classified in to three, they are:-
1. Satva: pure, light, clear, calming, harmonizing, opens the mind and promotes wakefulness.
2. Rajas: cloudy, agitated, turbulent, energizing and disturbs the emotions.
3. Tamas: dark, heavy, dulling and promotes lethargy. It contracts and closes the mind.

SATTIVC TYPES have the greatest freedom from disease. Their nature is harmonious and
adaptable. They strive towards balance and have peace of mind that cuts the psychological root
of disease. They are considerate of others and take care of themselves and their bodies. They
see all life as a learning experience and try to see good in all things, including disease.
RAJASIC TYPES have good, or even excess, energy but can burn themselves out through
excessive activity. Their disease symptoms are frequently acute and recovery is possible with
the right remedial measure. They are impatient and inconsistent in dealing with disease and do
not always take the time or responsibility to get well. They often blame others for their
condition, which post pones healing.
TAMASIC TYPES are prone to chronic diseases and low vitality. Their energy and emotions
tend to be stagnant or blocked. Their diseases are deep seated, obstinate and difficult to treat.

21
They do not seek proper treatment and usually have poor hygiene. They will accept their
disease as fate and will not take advantage of the methods that may cure them. They are often
caught in bad habits, addictions and attachments that they are unable to questions.

THE THREE MENTAL TYPES AND THE THREE DOSHAS

An important method of balancing the three doshas is to move from their tamaisc and rajasic
sides to their sattvic (Spiritual) side. It is usually not possible to transcend ones predominant
dosha, but one can move to it higher level of functioning. For example, a Kapha type can move
from greed, a tamasic emotion, to devotion, a sattvic emotions; this transforms a negative
emotional disease tendency to a power of health and enlightenment.
All of us contain various degrees of these three mental qualities, just as we all have the three
doshas. The right balance of all qualities is also sattva, which means balance.
Gunas and doshas
Any of the three doshas can correspond to any of the three gunas. We should examine our
mental constitution according to the proportions of sattva, rajas and tamas that we find in
ourselves. This will give us a better idea how to improve our minds and balance our disease
tendency through yoga and the cultivation of character.
Combinining Three Gunas and Three Doshas
When we combine the three qualities and the three doshas the following picture of mental
development in human beings emerge. Each dosha is divided according to the three qualities.
We can observe that no dosha is necessarily better than another in terms of mental nature.
Their temperaments vary, but higher and lower spiritual levels exist within each type.
Hence,
1. All of us should examine these mental traits and see which most fit our nature.
2. We should reduce qualities that are negative, such as disease causing habits, by appropriate
remedial measures.
3. These remedial measures include meditation, mantra, yoga, various form of self
examination, spending time in nature, a pro-satvic diet, and life regimen in harmony with
ones constitution.
4. Certain cultures as a whole today are very rajasic. Therefore, some rajasic traits may be
more due to circumstances that indicative of our own disposition.
5. Ayurveda encourages us to try to develop sattva whatever we may do.

22
VATA (Airy) MENTAL NATURE
SATTVIC Energetic, adaptable, flexible, quick in comprehension, good in communication,
(Harmonious) strong sense of human unity, strong healing energy, true enthusiasm, positive
spirit, able to initiate things, good capacity for positive change and movement.
RAJASIC Indecisive, unreliable, hyperactive, agitated, restless, disturbed, nervous,
(Disturbed) anxious, overly talkative, superficial, noisy, disruptive, false enthusiasm

TAMASIC Fearful, servile, dishonest, secretive, depressed, self-destructive, drug addict,

(DULL) prone to sexual perversions, mentally disturbed, suicidal

PITTA (fiery) MENTAL NATURE

SATTVIC Intelligent, clear, perceptive, enlightened, discriminating, good will
(Harmonious) independent, warm, friendly, courageous, good guide and leader.
RAJASIC Willful, impulsive, ambitious, aggressive, controlling, critical, dominating,
(Disturbed) manipulating, angry wrathful, reckless, proud vain.

TAMASIC Hateful, vile, vindictive, destructive, psychopath, criminal, drug dealer,

(DULL) underworld figure.

KAPHA (Watery) MENTAL NATURE

SATTVIC Calm, peaceful, content, stable, consistent, loyal, loving, compassionate,
(Harmonious) forgiving, patient, devoted, receptive, nurturing, supportive, strong faith.
RAJASIC Controlling, attached, greedy, materialistic, sentimental, needing security,
(Disturbed) seeking comfort and luxury

TAMASIC Dull, gross, lethargic, apathetic, slothful, coarse, slow comprehension,

(DULL) insensitive.

********************

SYMPTOMS OF AGGRIVATED DOSHAS

The following list gives, in a comprehensive way, the disease symptoms, common to each of the
three doshas. These can be added to the factors of constitutional examination for greater
23
clarity. Examination of pulse, tongue and abdomen, as well as questioning the patient, are
important.
VATA PITTA KAPHA
COLOR (as in Black, brown, blue black, Red, purple, yellow, White, pale
complexion ,discharges) blue, pink, decrease or green, block,
absence of normal color. smokey
PAIN Most severe; throbbing, Medium, burning, Least, heavy, dull,
biting, churning, beating, steaming. constant.
tearing, variable,
migratory, intermittent
FEVER Moderate Highest Low- grade fever,
temperament; variable temperature, dullness, heaviness,
or irregular fever, thirst, burning sensation, constant elevated
anxiety, restlessness thirst, sweating, temperature.
irritability, delirium
DISCHARGES Gas, sound(discharge of Bleeding, pus Mucus, salivation
gas, cracking of joints,
etc)
MOUTH Astringent taste, dry Bitter or pungent Sweet or salty taste,
taste, increased profuse salivation,
salivation mucoid discharge
THROAT Dry, rough, pain and Sore throat, Swelling, dilation,
constriction of inflammation, edema(Swelling from
excessive accumulation of
esophagus(The passage burning sensation serous fluid in tissue)
between the pharynx and the

stomach)

STOMACH Decreased secretions, Excessive appetite, Slow digestion,

irregular appetite, sour or pungent sweet or mucoid
frequent eructation, burning eructation
eructation(belching, sensation, ulcers
hiccup, burping), sense
of constriction
LIVER AND GALL Dry, rough, scanty, Soft, excessive bile Enlarged, heavy,
BALDDER secretions, irregular production, gall firm, scanty bile,
activity stones, decreased activity
inflammation,
abscesses, increased
activity.
INTESTINES Dry, peristalsis (The process of Profuse secretions, quick Mucus coating, slow
wave-like muscle contractions of the peristalsis, inflammation,
alimentary tract that moves food peristalsis,
ulceration, abscesses(
along) disorders, distention, gas,
Symptom consisting of a obstruction,
constipation localized collection of pus distention, edema,
surrounded by inflamed tissue),

24
 increased activity
tumors
FECES Constipation, painful Diarrhea, watery Solid, decreased
and difficult bowel stools, quick or frequency, large
movement, dry, small in uncontrollable amount, containing
quantity. evacuation, burning mucus, with itching
sensation, increased
frequency,
moderate amount
URINE Scanty, difficult to Profuse, with Profuse, decreased
discharge, increased burning sensation, frequency, mucoid,
frequency or absence of increased white or pale.
urination, colorless frequency, yellow,
turbid, brown or red
in color
SWEAT Scanty, irregular Profuse, hot Moderate, constant
MIND AND SENSES Delusion, fear, apathy, Weakness of senses, Slow perception,
sorrow, insomnia, loss of intoxication, lack of desire,
consciousness, liking of restlessness, violent lethargy, stupor,
hot and disliking of cold emotions, delirium, excessive sleeping,
things. loss of sleep, desire for hot
dizziness, fainting, things.
desire for cold
things
ONSET OF DISEASE Rapid, variable, irregular Medium, with fever Slow, constant
TIME OF DAY WHEN Dawn, dusk Noon, midnight Mid-morning,
AGGRIVATED Mid-evening
SEASON WHEN Fall, early winter Summer, late spring Late winter, early
AGGRIVATED spring
EXOGENOUS Wind, cold, dryness Heat, sun, fire, Dampness, cold
(externally)AGGRIVATING humidity
FACTORS

DIETS FOR THE THREE DOSHAS

Dietary Therapy:- Right Diet is the main factor in the treatment of the physical body that is
built up by food. without changing our diet we cannot expect the body, which is its product to

25
change fundamentally whatever else we may attempt. Wrong diet is the main physical cause of
the disease. By correcting the diet, we eliminate the fundamental causes of disease.
Ayurveda is concerned primarily with the energetic of food as a means of balancing the
Doshas. It is not concerned with the specific nutritional requirements, the actual mineral,
vitamin and chemical content of food. From its view there is no standard diet for every one, or
any minimum daily requirement. Its concern is that the food we take in, and the manner in
which we take it, is harmony with our nature. Its primary classification of food is according to
the Doshas.
********************

Ayurvedic Principles of Dietetics:- While care should be taken about the nature of food, other
factors of food intake should be considered as well these include:-
1. Right preparation of the food.
2. Right combination, right combination, right amount, right frequency, right time and place of
eating.
3. Right emotional or mental state is necessary, good food taken in a bad mood or ill dosha
can cause disease.
SEASONS:- The diet should be adjustable for climate and seasonal variations.
1. An anti –Vata diet should be given emphasis in the fall.
2. An anti- Pitta diet should be followed more in the summer and late spring.
3. An anti – Kapha diet should be followed more in the winter and in early spring.
4. A dual -Vata – Pitta type should follow an anti-vata diet more in the fall and winter and anti-
Pitta in the spring and summer.
5. A dual Vata-Kapha type should follow an anti-vata diet in the summer and fall and anti-
Kapha in the winter and spring.
6. A dual Pitta-Kapha types should follow an anti-Pitta diet in the summer and fall and anti-
kapha in winter and spring.

CLIMATE:-
 An anti-Vata diet is more appropriate to cold, dry, windy climates, like the high desert or
high plains regions.
 An anti-Pitta diet is more suitable for hot climates including the south United States and
the lower desert of the south west.
 An anti-kapha diet is more appropriate in damp and cold regions like the Midwest, most
of the east and northeast, and Pacific northwerst.
 Just like dual constitutions, dual climates also exist. The hot desert is a Pitta-Vata
climate, while the southeast is largely a Pitta-kapha climate.

********************
ANTI – VATA DIET (Diet for Decreasing VATA)
General considerations:

26
 Vata types are most likely to suffer from emaciation, malnourishment or wasting away of
tissues. There fore dietary therapy, improving food quality and quantity, is one of the most
important treatments for all vata disorders. Vata types should generally try to eat more food
and eat more frequently. They require a calming, grounding, nourishing diet. Food should be
war, heavy, moistening and strengthening.

DIETETICS : Meals should be small and frequent but regular. Food should be taken warm or
cooked. Fast food, instant food and junk food should be avoided. Not too many different food
types should be combined in the same meal. Mild spices and salt can be used.
{ The best food for each dosha are indicated as “in high degree” in decrease column. The worst
foods are indicated as “in high degree” in increase column.
The food that is indicated as “in low degree” in increase column may be taken occasionally, or
easily antidote. On the other hand, a food marked as “in high degree” in increase column
should be generally avoided.
NOTE:- Our predominant diet is what matters; we have some latitude within that field, except
when we are very ill. Often the qualities of foods can be balanced by using the appropriate
spices and condiments, particularly when their dosha aggravating affects the low.}
FRUITS
IN HIGH DEGREE IN LOW DEGREE
DECREASE Bananas, dates (raw or soaked) figs (raw or Apples (cooked), apricots, blueberries, cherries,
soaked) grapes, grapefruit, lemons, limes, peaches pears persimmons, plums pomegranate,
mango, oranges, papayas, pineapple, raspberries, strawberries
prunes (soaked or raw)
INCREASE Dry fruits generally Melons, cranberries apple (Uncooked)

VEGITABLES
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREASE Avocado, chilies, onion(cooked), radish, Beets, carrots, cilantro corn, green bean, mustard
sweet potatoes, yams. green, onions (cooked), parsley, peas(fresh),
seaweed, squash, turnips watercress.
INCREASE Alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, brussel sprouts, Artichoke, asparagus, bell pepper, cauliflower,
cabbage. celery, chard.
GRAINS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREASE Brown rice, khus khus, oats, wheat Basmati rice, quinoa
INCREASE Granola and dried grains Barely, buckwheat, corn, millet rye.

BEANS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREASE Mung tofu
INCREASE Fava beans, pinto, soy beans Aduki, chick peas, kidney beans, peanuts,
lima beans, split peas, urad dal

NUTS AND SEEdS

27
 HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREASE Almonds, brazil nuts, cashews, Coconut, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds,
filberts, pecans, pine nuts, sesame
seeds, pistachio, walnuts.
DAIRY PRODUCTS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREASE Butter, cottage cheese, farmeris Butter milk, cheese, cream, goat milk, rice
cheese (paneer) ghee, kefir, milk, milk,
sour cream, yogurt
INCREASE Ice cream Soy milk
OILS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREASE Almond, butter, ghee, olive, sesame Avocado, coconut, flaxseed, mustard,
peanut
INCREASE Margarine, Canola, corn, safflower, soy
SWEATENERS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Fruit sugars, jiggery, maple syrup, Honey
E molasses, raw sugar
INCREASE White sugar
SPICES
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Asafetida, basil, ,bay leaves, cardamom, Black pepper, cayenne, dill, horseradish,
E cloves, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, mint, mustard, paprika, rosemary, sea
fennel, fenugreek, garlic, ginger, rock salt, soy sauce, turmeric.
salt, saffron, sage, tamarind,
INCREASE

BEVEREAGES
1. VATA types need to take adequate fluids. Water itself, however, in not nourishing enough.
2. Diary is preferable if problems in digesting do not exist.
3. Herbal teas are excellent, particularly spicy teas like cinnamon, and ginger taken with milk and
natural sweetener.
4. Tonic herbs are also excellent.
5. Sour fruit juices are good or water with lemon or lime.

MINERALS
1. VATAS do well with oily vitamins like A, D and E. Sour vitamins like Vitamin C are also
excellent.
2. Minerals like Zink, and Calcium are good but should be taken with spices.
ANTI - PITTA DIET
(Diet for lowering the Pitta)
28
 General Considerations
PITTA types require a diet that is cool, slightly dry and a little heavy. They usually possess
the best appetites and strongest digestions and can get away with excessive eating or with bad
food combinations. The effects of wrong diet may manifest more through toxic blood and
infectious diseases than through simple digestive upsets.

DIETETICS : PITTA types should take food cool, raw, not heavily, spiced and not cooked with a
lot of oil. They should avoid fried and overly cooked food, and be careful not to clog the liver by a
too rich diet. Eating late at night should be avoided.

FRUITS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Apples, cranberry, dates, figs, grapes Blue berry, limes, mangoes, oranges
E melons, pears, persimmon, pineapple (sweet), plums, raspberries.
pomegranate, prunes
INCREASE Cherries, grapefruits, Apricots, bananas, lemons, papaya,
peaches, straw berries.
VEGITABLES
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Alfalfa sprouts, artichokes, asparagus, bitter Bell peppers, corn(fresh), eggplant, parsley,
melon, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, potatoes, squash.
E
cabbage, celery, cilantro, cucumber, green beans,
kale, lettuce, mushrooms, okra, peas (fresh),
sunflower sprouts
INCREASE Chilies, onions (raw), tomatoes. Avocado, beets, carrots, chard, onions(well
cooked), radishes, seaweeds, spinach, sweet
potatoes, turnips, watercress yams,
GRAINS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Barley, basmati rice, khus khus, granola, oats, Blue corn, brown rice,(long grain)millet,
quinoa, wheat.
E
INCREASE Buck wheat, corn, rye.

BEANS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Aduki, lima, mung, tofu, Chick peas, kidney beans, soy, split beas,
E
INCREASE Lentils, Peanuts

NUTS AND SEEDS

HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Coconuts, sunflower
E
INCREASE Almonds, brazil nuts, cashews, filbert, pecans, Pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame,
walnuts.
OILS
29
 HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Butter, coconut, ghee, almond Sunflower, soy, canola
E
INCREASE Sesame, mustard peanut Corn, flaxseed, olive, margarine, safflower,

DAIRY PRODUCTS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Cottage cheese, cream, farmeris cheese(panner) Cheese(unsalted),
milk, rice milk, soy milk
E
INCREASE Cheese(salted), sour cream, kefir, yogurt Butter milk, ice cream,

SWEETNERS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Fruit sugar, maple sugar, raw sugar, Honey (frush), raw sugar, jaggary,
E
INCREASE Honey(old) molasses, white sugar

SPICES
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Cilantro, coriander, fennel, saffron, Cardamom, cloves, cumin, dill, mint, rosemary,
turmeric
E
INCREASE Asafetida, black pepper, cayenne, garlic, Basil, bay leaves, cinnamon, fenugreek, ginger,
horseradish, oregano, mustard, paprika, nutmeg, rock salt, sage, sea salt, soy sauce,
tamarind

BEVERAGES
1. Pitta need adequate fluid intake.
2. Cool spring water is good.
3. Tea can be taken (black or green), but not coffee.
4. Astringent herbal teas are good such as alfalfa, raspberry leaf, hibiscus, dandelion and
comfrey, but not too many spice teas except a little mint.
5. Dairy is good especially milk.
6. Pomegranate, pineapple or cranberry fruit juices are excellent or vegetable juices such as
celery and other green vegetable drinks.
7. Avoid alcohol, beer and wine.

VITAMINES AND MINARALS

1. PITTA does well with B vitamins. Vitamin K also is good for stopping bleeding.
2. Vitamin A is for eyes, which are often sensitive to light.
3. Minerals like calcium and iron are important.
4. Pitta types can usually digest raw vegetables well enough to extract most of what they
need.
5. They can also handle large mineral supplements without weakening the digestive fire,
which tends to occur with the other doshas.
30
 ______________________________________________________________________

ANTI- KAPHA DIET

(Diet for decreasing Kapha)

General Considerations
KAPHA types do best with a diet that is warm, light and dry. They should avoid food that is
cold, heavy and oily. Accumulation of mucus in the system is a sigh of taking too much Kapha-
promoting foods. As most food is sweet in taste, kapha types should take less food. Their main
dietary therapy is in eating less and taking more herbs.

DIETETICS : KAPHA types need to eat less in quantity and less frequently. They should have
three meals a day with the main meal at noon, the other two light in nature. They also should take
less time in eating. It is better for them not to eat in the evening, particularly heavy foods. They
should not sleep after eating.
FRUITS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Dry fruits(generally) Apple, cranberry, pomegranate
E
INCREASE Bananas, cherries dates, figs, grapes, mango, Blueberry, grapefruit, lemon, lime, papaya,
melons, oranges, persimmons, pineapple, plums, pears, peaches, pomegranate, prunes, raspberry,
strawberry
VEGITABLES
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Alfalfa sprouts, asparagus, broccoli, Brussels Artichokes, beets, bell peppers bitter melon,
sprouts, cabbage, celery, chard, chilies, cilantro, carrots, cauliflower, peas, potatoes,
E
eggplant, green beans, kale, lettuce, mushrooms,
mustard greens, parsley, radish, spinach,
sunflower sprouts, turnips, watercress
INCREASE Cucumber, sweet potatoes, Avocado, corn(fresh),okra, seaweeds, squash,
tomatoes, yams
GRAINS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Barley, corn, dry or popped grains generally, rye Buckwheat, millet, quinoa
E
INCREASE Khus khus, oats, wheat, white rice Basmati rice, brown rice,

BEANS
HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Aduki, lima, lentils, soy Kidney beans, mung, peanut, split peas tofu
E
INCREASE Chick peas

NUTS AND SEEDS

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 HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE
DECREAS Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds
E
INCREASE Almond, brazil nuts, cashew, coconut, filbert,
pecan, pine nut, sesame, salnut
OILS

HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE

DECREAS Canola, flaxseed, mustard, safflower, sunflower, Corn, soy
E
INCREASE Almond, avocado, butter, sesame Ghee, margarine, olive, peanut,

DAIRY PRODUCTS

HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE

DECREAS Goat milk, soy milk Butter milk
E
INCREASE Cheese, cow’s milk, cream, ice cream, kefir, sour Cottage cheese, rice milk,
cream, yogurt.
SWEENERS

HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE

DECREAS Honey(old)
E
INCREASE Brown sugar, fruit sugar, boney (raw), maple Jiggery, molasses, white sugar.
syrup, white sugar
SPICES

HIGH DEGREE LOW DEGREE

DECREAS Asafetida, basil, bay leaves, black pepper, Cilantro, coriander, cumin, dill, fennel, parsley,
cardamom, cayenne, cinnamon, cloves, rosemary, saffron, soy sauce,
E
fenugreek, garlic, ginger, horseradish, mustard,
nutmeg, oregano, paprika, sage, turmeric.
INCREASE Sea salt, Sea salt, tamarind.

BEVERAGES

1. Kappa types need to drink less water and should avoid all ice and cold water.
2. They can take regular tea, herbal teas, spice teas like ginger and cinnamon, and astringent
teas like alfalfa, dandelion, root or chicory root.
3. Teas can be taken with honey but sugar and milk should not be used frequently.
4. Coffee is alright if taken occasionally.

VITAMINES AND MINERALS

1. Kapha types need less vitamins and minerals and more spices and enzymatic agents.
2. Usually ‘B’ vitamins are good for them but oily vitamins (A,D and E) should not be taken in
excess.

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 3. Heavy mineral supplements can also weaken digestive power further because of their heavy
nature.
_______________________________________________

SATTVIC OR YOGIC DIET FOR IMPROVING THE MIND

The Satvic diet was originally devised for the practice of yoga and the development of the mind.
Sattvic diet consists of pure foods that are light in nature and mildly cooling in energy that do not
disturb the mind.
Sattvic diet and the six tastes
 Of the six tastes only sweet taste is considered generally Sattvic. By this is meant naturally
sweet taste as in fruit. It is pleasant, harmonizing and nourishing and reflects the energy
of love.
 Pungent, sour and salty tastes are Rajasic. They are stimulating and potentially irritating.
 Bitter and astringent tastes are Tamasic. Their long-term affects is to cause rigidity.
1. Pungent taste irritates the nerves by its dispersing property.
2. Sour and salt aggravate the emotions through heating the blood.
3. Bitter and astringent have a constricting affect that can hold in toxins or weaken our
energy.
{NOTE:- This Classification of the six tastes is general and mainly in terms of food value. The
effects of the tastes vary as to quantity and usage of the tastes.}
Points to Note: 1. Too much sweet food become tamasic or dulling.
2. This is particularly true of old or artificially prepared sweets.
3. Some bitter herbs, like gotu kola, are sattvic because bitter taste being composed of air
and ether elements opens the mind.
4. Some spices with sweet fragrances, like ginger, or cardamom, are sattvic.
5. excessive eating is tamasic, while light eating is sattivic. A satvic diet is bland and even in
taste, not going to any extremes.
FRUITS : Fruits are Sattvic (Pure) in nature. They are sweet, light and promotes contentment. All fruits
are generally good for Yogic diet or improving the mind. They harmonize the stomach, relieves thirst,
calms the heart and improves perception. They body cleanse and nourish body fluids.

VEGITABLES: Most Vegetables are good for a Sattvic diet, though not as much as fruits. This is because
vegetables contain a greater amount of bitter and astringent tastes than fruits. Mushrooms are
regarded as tamasic because they are allied with decay.

Pungent vegetables like – garlic, onions, radishes and chillies – are Rajasic and Tamasic and can
stimulate the sexual nerves. Excess of cabbage family plants - Cabbage, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and
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mustard, and cauliflower – are Rajasic or gas forming. Potatoes and sweet potatoes can be a little
heavy or mucus forming in excess. Otherwise fresh or steamed vegetables or vegetable juices are
quite Sattvic,. Celery is particularly good for the brain.

GRAINS :- Grains, like fruits are Sattvic in nature, especially rice. Wheat and oats also good. Grains are
usually the main staple food in a Sattvic diet because they allow for an even release of energy over a
long period of time that allows the mind to stay clear, grounded and focused.

BEANS: Beans are usually Rajasic in nature, as they are irritating, gas forming and heavy. Exceptions
are Mung beans, Aduki beans and Tofu, which go well with Sattvic diet. Equal parts of splitMung beans
and rice (KICHIDI) is the basic yogic staple diet and the main simple food for purification or fro
convalescence in Ayurveda.

NUTS AND SEEDS: Seeds and Nuts are Sattivc in nature. They should be taken fresh or lightly roasted,
not heavily roasted and salted, which reduces their value. Almonds, pine nuts, pecans and Walnuts are
particularly good. As nuts are a little heavy, they should not be taken in large quantities. Nuts and
Seeds go Tamasic easily.

DAITY: Dairy products are naturally Sattvic in nature. Pasteurized, however, they lose much of this
quality. A milk fast, or butter milk fast, is an important part of a yogic diet and helps revitalize the skin
and plasma. Cheese is generally heavy an so not recommended on a regular basis.

OILS:- Most oils are heavy and not recommended in large amounts. Ghee or clarified butter is Sattvic,
promotes intelligence and perception and can be freely used. It can be added to grains or to cooked
vegetables. Sesame oil is Sattvic, as is coconut. Olive oil is also good but not with garlic.

SWEETNERS: - Sweet taste in moderation is Sattvic, but refined sugars are tamasic. Yogic diet takes
raw sugars, particularly jaggary. It is said that sweet feeds Shakti (po0wer of awareness)

SPICES:- Most spices are Rajasic but a number of exceptions exist. Sattvic spices include Ginger,
cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, basil, fennel and coriander. They help in balancing the effect of too
much fruit, dairy or other dampness forming foods. Black pepper or pippali helps in drying excess
mucus and keep the channels open. Here Rajas is used to counter Tamas, thus, producing Sattva
indirectly. Such strategic variations should be kept in mind.

Salt should be avoided except in the summer or in hot climates. Then it is best combined with lime.

BEVERAGES: Pure spring water is good, as are Sattvic, herb teas like ginger, or milk. Coffee and other
stimulants should be avoided. Green or black tea (in moderation), however, is fine and is thought to
improve mental functioning.

HERBS :- Most tonic herbs such as ASWAGANDHA, SHATAVARI, AMALAKI, GINSENG, ASTRAGALUS OR
COMFREY ROOT are Sattvic and can be an important energy supplement to a Sattvic diet. CHYAVANA
PRASHA, BRAHMA RASAYANA and such Ayurvedic jellies are very Sattivc.

Many herbs for the mind are useful in Sattvic diet. Gotu kola(brahmi) gives clarity, calm and
coolness to the mind. Calamus is particularly good for clearing the channels, promoting perception and

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improving speech. Other good Sattvic herbs for the mind are JATAMAMSI, SHANKHA PUSHPI, LOTUS,
AND BHRINGARAJ. Good Western and Chinese herbs for the mind that are sattvic in nature include
SKULLCAP, SAGE, ZIZYPHUS, and BIOTA SEEDS.

RAJASIC AND TAMASIC DIETS

Rajasic and Tamasic foods disturb or dull the mind and produce disease. Rajasic goods aggravate Vata and
Pitta. Tamasic foods increase Kapha and Ama(toxins) Rajasic foods cause hyperactivity, restlessness,
irritability, and insomnia, increase toxins in the blood, cause bleeding and promote hypertension. Tamasic
foods cause hyperactivity, lethargy, apathy, excess sleep, and accumulation of Phlegm and waster
material.

Rajasic food includes most overly tasty food. It is excessively spicy, salty and sour – Chillis, Garlic, Onions,
Wines, Pickels, excess Salt, Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, and vinegar.

Non-Vegitation food is Highly Rajasic and Tamasic there fore completely avoided by a spiritual seeker.

Food too hot in temperature is Rajasic. Most fried food or roasted and Salted food is Rajasic.

TAMASIC FOOD is Stale(unfresh), old, recooked, rancid (Used of decomposing oils or fats), artificial, greasy
or heavy. It includes all “DEAD ”food, all meat and fish, are Tamasic. Most canned food is tamasic as well.
Poor quality dairy products are at least in part tamasic, particularly those produced by factory farms.
Excessive intake of fats, oils, sugars and pastries is tamasic. White sugar and white flour have a long-term
tamasic effect. Food that is too cold is also tamasic.

SATVIC DIET AND DIETS FOR THE DOSHAS

Sattvic Vata Diet: Vata people are prone to Rajasic or Agitation. Their diet, therefore, includes food
articles that are Sattvic or Tamasic (except non vegetation food) in order to counter this. For a Sattvic Diet,
tamasic items should be eliminated including garlic and onion, and non-vegetation foods. Rajasic spices,
which are sometimes used for Vata like cayenne, black pepper, mustard, and asafetida, should be used
with discretion. Salt should not be used in excess.

Sattvic Pitta Diet: Pitta types tend towards Rajas, but not as much as Vata. They can easily follow a Sattvic
Diet. The regular anti-pitta diet is predominately Sattvic. Pittas only need to remove a few Rajasic items
from their diet. Such are mainly beans (other than Mung, Aduki and Tofu) and meat, which should not be
takes. Excess of sugar and overeating are also contrary to this approach.

Sattvic Kapha Diet: Kapha people incline to Tamas, as they easily develop heaviness, inertia, congestion
and stagnation. Generally, many Rajasic foods and spices are recommended for them to counter this. A
Sattvic Kapha diet, therefore, more restrictive than the usual anti-Kapha diet. It requires, in addition to the

35
regular Kapha diet, reducing hot spices, avoiding beans (except Mung, Aduki and tofu) and strictly avoiding
non-vegetation foods. Sattvic spices are freely used, particularly ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom, and
whole grains like corn or millet for strength.

Digestive Fire, Diseases and Treatment

The food is digested by the Digestive Fire, therefore it is important that not only we feed ourselves
properly, the digestive fire must also be cared for so that it has the power to adequately extract our
nourishment.
Most diseases arise from poor or wrong functioning of the digestive system. The digestive fire,
Jatharagni is central to the health. It is not only responsible for absorbing nutrients in food, but it also
destroys any pathogens and renders the food acceptable to our system. Undigested food becomes like
a pathogen in the body, breeding toxins and upsetting the immune system.
When the digestive fire is normal there is good digestion, circulation, and complexion; pleasant
breath and body odor; adequate energy and strong resistance to disease.
When Agni is abnormal there poor digestion, poor circulation, bad complexion, offensive body odor,
intestinal gas, constipation: low energy and poor resistance to disease.
Therefore, treating the digestive system- regulating Digestive Fire- is a radial (root) treatment of
most diseases.

FOUR STATES OF DIGESTIVE FIRE (AGNI)

Agni has for states in Ayurveda.

1. High. 2. Low. 3. Variable. 4.Balanced.
1. HIg Agni:- Agni is usually high in Pitta types, with excessive appetite. Circulation is strong,
but toxins in the blood and bleeding are more common. Resistance to disease is generally
good, but when they do occur, disease are apt to be sudden and severe(like febrile
disorders or heart attacks.)
2. Low Agni:- Agni is usually low in Kapha types, with poor appetite, low metabolism and
tendency to gain weight even without excess food consumption. There will be excesss
mucus and congestion .circulation is poor and colds and flu are more common, but diseases
are often not severe.
3. Variable Agni:- Agni is variable in Vata types with periods of strong appetite, even extreme
hunger, alternating with loss of appetite and forgetting to eat. Gas, distention and
constipation are usually signs of variable Agni. Circulation is also variable, as is resistance to
disease. More debilitating diseases and long term derangement of the nervous system are
more likely.

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 4. Balanced Agni:- signs of balanced Agni are a normal and regular appetite that is constant
and easily satisfied with natural, not strongly spiced foods. Bowel movement will be regular
and there will be little production of gas or bloating. Sensory acuity and mental clarity will
also usually be strong.

MAINTAINING AND PROTECTING THE DIGESTIVE FIRE

1. Agni is increased by Pungent, sour and salty tastes and decreased by sweet, astringent, and
bitter, though bitter taste in small amount before meals can also increase Agni.
2. Spices are usually the best thing for increasing Agni. The digestive fire has the same nature as
spicy taste.
3. Hence, the right intake of spices is a major aid in the treatment of most diseases of the
digestive system.

 When one’s Agni is high, spices should be avoided but digestive bitters – aloe, barberry and
gentian – can be taken (typically such formulas in Ayurveda as Tikta or Mahasudarshana
churna.) these lower the digestive fire without increasing the toxins.
 When Agni is low hot spices can be taken - cayenne, ginger, black pepper (typically the Trikutu
formula) - but all spices are good.
 When Agni is variable, spices and salts should be taken – asafetida, ginger, cumin, rock salt
 When Agni is normal mild sattvic (harmonizing) spices – cardamom, turmeric, coriander and
fennel – can be take to maintain the balance.

Digestive Tonics

As a general formula for maintaining the digestive fire, particularly in low or variable states,
Ayurvedic digestive tonic (an improved form of Trikatu) or Trikatu can be take, 1 gram or ¼
teaspoon an half hour before meal. Vata types can take it with warm water, Kapha with honey,
Pitta with cool water or aloe gel as a vehicle.

Digestive Fire and Yoga – Pranayama - Meidtation

Agni can also be increased by exercise, including Yoga Postures (Asanas), by deep breathing
(Pranayama), Meditation, by fasting or light eating and by sleeping less. Staring at ghee lamp is also
helpful.
Decreasing of Digestive Fire:
It is decreased by most damp, heavy, oily and sweet foods with the exception of ghee (clarified
butter), which in small amounts increases it. Sedentary life-style, excessive sleep or too much sex are
additional factors which weaken the digestive system.

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Some Important Ayurvedic Herbs
Ayurveda has many important herbs including special powerful tonics, rejuvenative and restoratives to the
immune system. Some important are –

Amalaki :- (Emblica officinalis)Tonic, rejuvenative, laxative(stimulates Stimulating evacuation of feces),

builds the blood, and good for all types.

Aloe :- (Aloe vera) Tonic to the liver and spleen, laxative, detoxifying, and excellent for pitta.

Ashwagandha:- a good tonic for the brain, reproductive systems and bones; analgesic (Capable of
relieving pain) and sedative without depressant effect. Excellent for Vata.

Bala :- Tonic to the lungs and reproductive system. Gives strength; good for Pitta and Vata.

Bibhitaki:- tonic, stimulant, anti rhumatic and good for Kapha and the lungs.

Calamus:- expectorant, stimulant, stomachic, excellent for improving intelligence and speech, good for
Kapha and Vata.

Castrol oil:- Purgative, good for nervous and arthritic disorders.

Coriander:- Digestive stimulant, anti allergy, best spices of Pitta. Expectorant (loosening Phlegm)

Gotu kola:- Tonic to the brain and liver, sedative, alterative(curative), diuretic, and haemostatic(stops
bleeding), improves intelligence, and good for meditation.

Guduchi:- tonic, antipyretic(anti fever), alterative (healing),good for chronic infectious diseases, weak
immune system and lingering fevers.

Guggul :- Expectorant, analgesic(pain killer), and alterative; excellent medicine for arthritis, gout, diabetes,
and obesity.
Haritaki :- Tonic to the brain and colon; laxative and excellent for Vata people.

Jatamansi: - tonic and calmative.

Kapikacchu:- tonic and rejuvenative, excellent for Vata types.

Bhumyamalaki:- Liver tonic, alterative,. Good for Pitta and Vata types.

Saffron:- stimulant, aphrodisiac, good for heart, liver, spleen and female reproductive.

Shanka pushpin:- Nervine tonic.

Shatavari:- Good tonic for lymph, blood and female reproductive system.; nourishing to the heart. Good
for Pitta and Vata.

Shilajit:- tonic, rejuvenative, diuretic( increase the flow of urine), excellent for diabetics, strengthen
kidneys; excellent for Kapha.

Turmeric:- stimulant, alterative, antioxidant, astringent, antitumor, and antibiotic; good for the skin and for
complexion: promotes healing; best general spice.
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