Abstract
Pitta dosha represents the principle of transformation and energy metabolism in the body. From a modern point of view, pitta dosha is the metabolic activity and energy production of the body. It includes the liver, pancreas, and digestive system as well as the endocrine system. A person with a balanced pitta dosha has a sharp intellect, good digestion, healthy skin, and good vision. When the Pitta dosha is out of balance, it can cause anger, irritability, inflammation, acidity, ulcers, skin rashes, and other health issues. Let’s discuss this in detail!
What is Pitta dosha?
It is one of three doshas that govern various physiological and psychological functions of the body along with Vata and Kapha. Pitta dosha is associated with fire and is in charge of digestion, metabolism, body temperature, and hormonal balance. It is also linked to intelligence, comprehension, and leadership abilities. People who have a dominant pitta dosha have a medium build with moderate muscle and fat. They have a strong appetite and good digestion, but they may sometimes experience acidity or a burning sensation in the chest region if they eat too much spicy or oily food. Their skin is usually oily and prone to rashes, acne, or inflammation and their hair is fine and straight.
In Ayurveda, there are five types of Pitta dosha, each with its own set of characteristics and effects on the body. These are:
1. Pachaka Pitta:
This Pitta type is found in the digestive system, specifically the small intestine, and governs digestion. Pachaka Pitta, when balanced, promotes healthy digestion, absorption, and elimination of waste. An imbalance in Pachaka Pitta on the other hand can cause digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, and constipation.
2. Ranjaka Pitta:
This Pitta type is located in the liver and spleen and is responsible for red blood cell production as well as blood purification. Ranjaka Pitta promotes healthy blood flow and liver function when it is balanced. An imbalance in Ranjaka Pitta on the other hand can result in blood disorders such as anemia and liver-related problems such as jaundice.
3. Alochaka Pitta:
This Pitta type governs vision and perception and is found in the eyes. Alochaka Pitta when balanced promotes clear vision and perception as well as a healthy eye structure. An imbalance in Alochaka Pitta can cause eye strain, sensitivity to light, and other vision issues.
4. Sadhaka Pitta:
This Pitta type is located in the heart and governs emotions and mental clarity. When this pitta is in a balanced state it promotes a calm and clear mind as well as balanced emotions. An imbalance in Sadhaka Pitta can lead to emotional instability, anxiety, and depression.
5. Bhrajaka Pitta:
This Pitta type is found in the skin and governs its complexion and overall health. When it is in a balanced state , it promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails. An imbalance in Bhrajaka Pitta can result in skin problems such as rashes, acne, and inflammation.
How to Maintain Pitta Dosha Balance?
- Follow a Pitta-pacifying diet : Consume cooling, non-spicy foods with sweet, bitter, and astringent flavours. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Avoid foods that are hot, spicy, oily or fried.
- Practice mindful eating : Sit down to eat, chew your food thoroughly and eat in a calm and relaxed environment. Avoid eating when you are stressed or emotional.
- Exercise regularly : Light to moderate activities such as walking, swimming and yoga helps in balancing pitta dosha in the body.
- Stay hydrated : Drink plenty of water and cool drinks like coconut water, cucumber juice and buttermilk.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques : Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help to reduce stress and balance pitta dosha.
- Avoid exposure to heat and sun : Stay inside during the hottest part of the day, wear loose, breathable clothing and avoid sun exposure.
Ayurvedic Home Remedies and Lifestyle Tips To Balance Pitta Dosha?
- Coconut water : Coconut water is a refreshing and hydrating drink that can help balance pitta dosha. It is high in electrolytes which can help regulate body temperature and reduce inflammation.
- Ghee : Ghee is a type of clarified butter that is considered cooling in Ayurveda. It can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and balance pitta dosha. Ghee can be consumed in small amounts with your meals or used in cooking.
- Aloe vera juice : Aloe vera is a soothing and cooling herb that can help reduce the levels of inflammation and acidity in the body. The juice of aloe vera can help balance pitta dosha and improve digestion.
- Coriander seeds : Coriander seeds are cooling and calming to the body. They can help in the reduction of inflammation and the improvement of digestion. Boil a teaspoon of coriander seeds in a cup of water, strain it and drinking this water can help in balancing pitta dosha in the body.
- Get enough sleep : Adequate sleep is essential for pitta dosha balance. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Practice mindfulness : Pitta Dosha is associated with the mind and emotions, so practising mindfulness can help you keep your mind calm and focused. Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can aid in pitta dosha balance.
- Stay cool : Pitta is associated with heat, so staying cool is essential for balancing pitta dosha. Avoid sun exposure during the hottest time of the day and instead engage in cooler activities such as swimming or yoga.
Some Classical Therapies To Balance Pitta Dosha:
- Virechan : Virechana is an ayurvedic therapeutic procedure used to balance Pitta dosha. A person is given herbal laxatives and purgatives during virechana therapy to eliminate excess Pitta from the body. The treatment is typically given for 3 to 7 days, depending on the severity of the Pitta imbalance.
- Abhyanga : This is a traditional warm oil ayurvedic massage. Massage with coconut or sesame oil can help to balance pitta dosha, calm the mind and promote relaxation.
- Shirodhara : This is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy in which a continuous stream of warm oil is poured over the forehead. Shirodhara can help in the balance of pitta dosha, the reduction of stress and anxiety and the promotion of relaxation.
- Pranayama : This is a yogic breathing technique that can help in pitta dosha balance by cooling and calming the body and mind. Sheetali and Sheetkari pranayama are especially beneficial for pitta balance.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, we can say Pitta plays a very important role in daily day-to-day activities. So we should always keep Pitta dosha in balance. For any further queries, please mail us on herbalremedies123@yahoo.com