Characteristics Of The Pitta Dosha In Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda, India's traditional system of medicine, concerns itself with enhancing health via the balance of energies present in each person. According to Ayurvedic thought, each of us carries some combination of the three doshas, or constitutional types: vata, kapha and pitta. One dosha usually predominates. The doshas are roughly equivalent to the ectomorph, endomorph and mesomorph bodily types in Western thought, but Ayurveda goes further, attributing not just physical characteristics but mental, emotional and spiritual aspects to each dosha as well.

Physical Characteristics

Whereas Ayurveda considers vata dosha to be airy and brittle, and kapha heavy and moist, the distinguishing characteristic of the pitta dosh is heat. "Pitta derives from the elements of Fire and Water and translates as 'that which cooks,'" write Dr. Thomas Yarema and Daniel Rhoda, authors of the Ayurvedic cookbook "Eat. Taste. Heal." Pittas may be blessed with abundant energy and tend to be of medium size and muscular build -- athletes often display pitta characteristics. Pittas also tend to have bright eyes and light-colored hair, penetrating voices and a strong, brisk stride.

Emotional Characteristics

"There is saying that imbalanced pitta individuals don't go to hell; they simply create it wherever they go!" write Yarema and Rhoda. The internal heat characteristic of pitta people can serve them well or rage out of control. When "fired up" in a balanced way, they're apt to make things happen and can be funny, inventive, brave and determined. When out of balance and "overheated" however, they can have a tendency toward irritability, egocentricity and anger.

Challenges

Pitta's characteristic heat makes pitta-dominant people prone to inflammation in a variety of forms, according to Ayurvedic thought. They have sensitive skin that is prone to eruptions, rashes and psoriasis. Infections may be more severe in pitta types, and those whose digestive fire rages out of control can suffer from conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, heartburn and diarrhea. On an emotional and psychological level, pittas can suffer from an overly analytical and obsessive mind that creates problems where none may exist, contributing to difficulties in relationships.

Prevention

For pitta types, the key concepts for preventing physical and emotional problems that result from imbalance are to keep cool and slow down, keeping the fire under control. Pittas should avoid stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, participate in calming rituals such as yoga and meditation, wear cool colors and consume cooling foods such as watery fruits, bitter vegetables, legumes and dairy. Pittas should avoid hot spices and red meat and drink plenty of water to keep the fire under control. You may also find it beneficial to take a few moments for reflection before eating, to calm yourself enough to appreciate and incorporate the meal to come.