pitta dosha explained
Pitta consists of the two elements fire & water. The dominant energy of the fire element makes them strong, irritable, tenacious & intense energetically. It’s commonly described as hot, light, sharp, oily, liquid, and mobile. The common translation of pitta is “that which digests things.” Pitta regulates all metabolic processes in the body as well as body temperature and our hormonal balance.
They usually are physically a medium build with a powerful stature, strong muscles, athletic and have high endurance. Their complexion often reddens in the sun, during exercise, blushing etc and they can be very strong willed and competitive in nature.
They can be judgemental and impatient with others but they are natural leaders, highly motivated & goal oriented and can become ‘hangry’ (irritable due to hunger) very quickly so don’t miss a meal with them! To maintain balance pittas need to manage their ‘fiery’ nature.
It is common for them to suffer from health conditions such as inflammation, rashes, acne, and loose stool.
strengths include
- intelligent
- learns quickly
- natural leaders
- determined
- quick metabolism
- good circulation
things to look out for
- impatient
- prone to conflict
- hungry often
- mood swings when hungry
- prone to acne and inflammation
- sensitive to hot temperatures
actions of pitta in the body
- intelligence
- understanding
- hunger & thirst
- digestion
- heat
- small intestine function
- skin health
signs of imbalanced pitta
- sunburns easily
- heartburn
- nausea or diarrhea
- agitation or anger
- burning sensation
- excess sweat
- acne or skin rashes
- smelly or sour smell
- self critical
- jealous
- inflammation
- burnout
Foods that could help keep pitta balanced are generally sweet, bitter & astringent in taste. Ayurveda says that these tasted are cooling, calming and drying qualities for pitta.
They are said to suit a predominantly vegetarian diet (you can let me know about whether that’s true for you or not?!) and the food should not be too spicy, salty, or sour and the occasional use of stimulants like coffee and tea are recommended.
A list of some food ideas that fit this; apples, avocados, coconuts, figs, melons, oranges, pears, plums, pomegranates, and mangos, asparagus, cabbage, broccoli, cucumber, kale, cauliflower, celery, green beans, lettuce, peas, parsley, potatoes, zucchini, sprouts, cress, chicory, lentils, chickpeas, honey, mushroom, barley, oats (cooked), basmati or white rice, wheat, no spices (sorry!) except for cilantro, cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, fennel, and some black pepper.
