Ayurveda recognises the three primary life forces in the body, or biological humors (constitutions) called Vata, Pitta and Kapha.  When out of balance, these doshas are the causative forces that become disease or illness.
These 3 doshas correspond to air, fire and water in the body.  They all have different roles and govern different parts of the body. When we dicover which dosha is out of balance, we can begin to look at treating the problem in that region, usually looking at specific diet’s for that dosha, along with herbs and other supplements.

All three doshas are located in the stomach region.  It is a well documented fact in traditional medicine and western medicine that the majority of bacteria and illness within the body stems from the stomach or intestinal region, hence why digestion and inner health play a vital role in our general well being.

Below is where the primary dosha sites are and what areas they govern:

VATA - Is the air dosha.  Vata means ‘that which moves things’.  It is located in the Colon and relates to the nervous system.  It is responsible for all movements in the mind and body.  Both other doshas would be immobile without this dosha.  It governs the colon area, thighs, hips ears, bones and organ of touch.

PITTA - Is the fire dosha.  It means ‘that which digest things’.  Pita is responsible for all chemical and metabolic transformation in the body.  Pitta therefore relates to the endocrine metabolism system.  It governs our mental digestion, our capacity to perceive reality and understand things as they are.  This dosha is located in the small intestines and governs small intestines, stomach, sweat, sebaceous glands, blood, lymph and the organ of vision.

KAPHA - Is the water dosha.  It means ‘that which holds things together’.  Kapha dosha provides substance and gives support, and makes up the bodily tissue.  In other words it relates to the immune system.  It also provides our emotional support system and relates to positive emotional traits like love, compassion, modest, patience and forgiveness.  This dosha is primarily located in the stomach.  It governs the upper areas such as chest, throat, head, pancreas, sides, stomach, lymph, fat, nose and tongue.

Now that we have a basic analysis of how the doshas work within our body, it is essential that we keep them balanced.  If they become out of balance, we will notice signs of illness in one of the many areas listed above.  An example would be: Kapha relates to the immune system and is the water dosha, therefore when we get a chest infections or cold, it is usually this dosha (which governs the chest throat, immune system etc) that is out of balance or too strong in the body.  Following an anti-kapha diet along with correct herbs and spices will assist in balancing the dosha back to harmonization within the body.

Each person will also have a prevailing dosha type.  This means a dosha that is more prominent in your body.  By following a diet and lifestyle suitable for that dosha, it will help your body stay in harmony.

Find out what dosha type you are: Click here...
If you would like to talk with someone further about this please email enquiries@herbalink.com.au