Ayurvedic treatment relies on the functioning of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha which are commonly referred to as the Tridoshas. These doshas represent the physiological functions of the body. Majumdar states that “all matter we observe around us is made on the basis of the fine ‘Building Blocks of Existence’, the Panchabhuta, but only the living matter has the Tridosha, the vital principles regulating all biological processes” (20). These doshas are considered the energies of the body and according to Lad (2003), “Just as everyone has a unique fingerprint, each person has a particular pattern of energy-an individual combination of physical, mental, and emotional characteristics-which compromises their own constitution” (1). Just as a disrupt in the balance of the gunas is manifested in the personality, a disruption in the doshas is manifested in the physiological state, and results in illness or disease. Furthermore, each dosha corresponds to one of the basic elements of nature (air, fire, and water) and are commonly referred to as Bhutas (Majumdar 1998, 21). To further understand the development of disease, one needs to have a clear understanding of the separate functioning of the doshas.
Vata
Vata is the most important of the three doshas and represents the energy of movement and is also “responsible for all the sensation and activities in the body” (Majumdar 1998, 22). Lad further adds that that “Vata is composed of Space and Air. It governs breathing, blinking, muscle and tissue movement, pulsation of the heart and all movements in the cytoplasm and cell membranes. In balance, vata promotes creativity and flexibility. Out of balance, vata produces fear and anxiety.” (1) Because of its role in the initiation of movement, vata is also responsible for the initiation of all biologic reactions within the body.
In terms of its physiological location, vata is located throughout the entire body, but is specifically located in the lower regions of the body (legs, intestines, etc.) and is regulated by the hypothalamus (Majumdar 1998, 29). Vata can be attributed to rough skin, lean body type, restlessness, and an overall dryness (Majumdar 1998, 24). An excess of any of these exposures is subject to an imbalance in overall health. These exposures may include; traveling by airplane, loud noises, and alcohol (Lad 2003, 2). To decrease vata it is suggested to eat three to four small, well-cooked meals a day consisting of oats, rice, and cooked vegetables, with snacks in between. Furthermore, it is advised to avoid raw apples, cranberries and other drying fruits (Lad 2003, 2).
An individual described as a vata type is characterized as having few friends, is unhappy, has rough nails, is dishonest, jealous, lives a short life, and resembles a number of animals such as jackals and rats (Mujumbad 24).
Pitta
Pitta represents the energy of metabolism and digestion and essentially “turns chyle into blood, keeps up memory, and preserves heat of the body” (Majumdar 1998, 21). Additionally, pitta is composed of Fire and it promotes creativity when in balance. Out of balance yields anger and jealousy (Lad 2003, 2). Ironically, while associated with fire, people classified as a pita type are typically warm bodied, sharp, short-tempered, and they enjoy spicy foods (Lad 2003, 3). Lad also points out that diseases experienced by pitta people include fevers, jaundice, and skin rashes (3).
Kapha
Kapha represents the energy that forms structures and “helps in the formation and preservation of the body by cooling all nutritive digested food material and separating waste material in the building process of the body tissues” (Majumdar 1998, 21). This dosha takes on the forms of Earth and Water and is responsible for the lubrication of joints and moisturizing of skin (Lad 2003, 2). Kapha is involved in the cooling and healing process (helps to control the heat from pitta), as well as, assists with flexibility and stability of the body. Without this system, there would be no structure to hold up the other aspects of the doshas such as fire and wind (Majumdar 1998, 23).
Kapha individuals are characterized as having a blush complexion, unselfish, prosperous, curly hair, generous, and are often compared to animals such as lions, horses, and swans (Majumdar 1998, 25). This system is also related to slow metabolism, a resistance to exercise, deep sleep, and an attraction to sweet and salty tastes (Lad 2003, 4). Because of the slow metabolism and lack of exercise, kapha people are prone to obesity, diabetes, and water retention. Kapha is located in the head and neck, which further supports its value in mental strength and endurance (Majumdar 1998, 23).
It is suggested that kapha people “actually need foods that will invigorate their minds while limiting their overall consumption of food” (Lad 2003, 4). Therefore, they should avoid fatty foods, fried foods, and dairy, and should focus on consuming roasted greens, leafy greens, and raw vegetables (Lad 2003, 5).
An individual is considered healthy when their doshas are in equilibrium. However, “they are always in disequilibrium state, causing a malfunctioning of body functions or causing disease” (Majumdar 1998, 21). To prevent this disequilibrium from occurring, one can stress and focus on the importance of balance through “right thinking, diet, lifestyle and the use of herbs” (Lad 2003, 1).
