We speak of a Pitta Ayurveda type when the Pitta Dosha is predominant in a person. The very focused and pragmatic Pitta types stay healthy and cheerful when they abide by a few basic rules.
Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are the three life forces (Sanskrit: Dosha), which give each person a unique constitution. This so-called Ayurveda type is innate and does not change during one’s entire life. It is therefore of particular importance in Ayurvedic medicine.
In Ayurveda, the most basic building blocks of the material world are the five elements: ether (space), air, fire, water, and earth.
- Vata is characterized by the mobile nature of Wind (Air) energy.
- Pitta embodies the transformative nature of Fire energy.
- And Kapha reflects the binding nature of Water energy.
Each dosha has a unique personality determined by its particular combination of elements and qualities.
Each dosha naturally governs specific physiological functions:
- Pitta Primary Functions is Digestion and Transformation.
Pitta contains the properties of the fire and water element, but the former is more pronounced. Thus, Pitta regulates all metabolic processes in the body as well as body temperature and our hormonal balance. Hunger, thirst, and even intelligence are associated with Pitta.
Character of the Pitta Type
Pitta types can be well-structured, manage projects, and concentrate exceptionally well. They want to do something and are practically predisposed. They are a pleasure as teachers because their lessons are logically organized, and everyone can follow their clear manner of expression. The Pitta type spends money more systematically and prudently.
The Pitta person likes strong massages with cooling oils (e.g., with rose and sandalwood), enjoying the outdoors as well as a bright and well-ventilated workplace. An open-plan office or working at the stove would make life more difficult for him/her and for colleagues sharing the same space.
Pitta types love to exercise outdoors and enjoy measuring their skills with others in order to prove their fighting spirit. They prefer light, loose-fitting clothing made of natural materials in both summer and winter.
The Pitta dosha is said to be made up of the fire and water elements. Fire is more predominant, and those people with a Pitta nature have many of the qualities of fire within them. Pitta tends to be hot, sharp, and penetrating. It is also somewhat volatile and oily. The oily nature of Pitta is related to the secondary component of water. People with a Pitta nature reflect these qualities. They tend to be warm, have a somewhat oily skin, penetrating eyes, and sharp features. They tend to have a moderate weight and good musculature. When out of balance, they tend towards diarrhea, infections, skin rashes, and weakness in the liver, spleen, and blood.
These qualities are also reflected in the personality. Pitta people tend to be highly focused, competitive, capable, courageous, energetic and clear communicators who get right to the point. They like to solve problems and when under stress, they dig in their heels. However, they can also become overly intense and speak with a sharp tongue. They make great friends but feared enemies. Emotionally, they are challenged by the heated emotions of anger, resentment and jealousy.
In order to bring balance to Pitta, programs are designed to emphasize the opposing qualities of coolness, heaviness (nourishment) and dryness.
Cool spices like fennel, are recommended in the diet, along with foods such as raw vegetables, cooked rice, and wheat, as well as most beans. Sweet herbs like Shatavari are used to nourish the body, while bitters like dandelion root temper the fire. Cooling essential oils are also recommended. Peppermint, clary sage, lavender, and sandalwood may be beneficial to Pitta dosha.
Physical Characteristics of the Pitta Type
The first thing you notice with Pitta-dominant people is their clarity and radiance. They are of average stature, have medium-sized eyes and a piercing glance; they are muscular and have a thirst for action. Their skin is rather bright and sensitive, and the hair of European Pitta types is often reddish or blond. Their gums tend to bleed and their teeth are more yellowish than white. Their memory is precise.
Typical Pitta Disorders
If their fire gets the better of them, Pitta people can be inclined to have fits of anger or rage, especially when they’re hungry. After prolonged, concentrated work, the Pitta type has a difficult time relaxing, and sleep disorders can occur.
If the Pitta type derails, inflammation in the body may occur. For example, the following illnesses could develop: gastritis, stomach and intestinal ulcers, acne, eczema and other skin diseases such as furuncles and abscesses, as well as liver infections.
Health Tips for Pitta Types
For people with very pronounced Pitta, it is very important to avoid extremes. Exercise is good for the Pitta type to blow off steam, but the best activities are those of moderate exertion such as jogging, dancing, or cycling. The same applies to food; here, above all, very large portions should be avoided.
Otherwise, it helps to stay away from sources of heat and instead look for a cool, well-ventilated environment. Feelings should be expressed calmly. Deep massages with Bai 86 or Bai 386 oil (e.g. rolfing, rebalancing, shiatsu) and Osho meditations are all good.
The Best Diet for Pitta Types
The Pitta person can be soothed by a predominantly vegetarian diet, bitter vegetables are preferable. The food should not be too spicy, salty, or sour (rather cool in summer and hot in winter). Alcohol-free beverages (a beer from time to time) and the occasional use of stimulants like coffee and tea are recommended.
The Qualitative Nature of the Pitta Dosha
The dosha is characterized by a collection of qualities that support its particular energetic:
Pitta – Hot, Sharp, Light, Liquid, Spreading and Oily.
Pitta Food Supplements
Avoid:
Amino acids
Bee pollen
Royal jelly
Minerals: copper, iron
Vitamins: B2, B6, C, E, P (bioflavonoids), and Folic Acid
Favour:
Aloe vera juice
Barley green
Brewer’s yeast
Minerals: calcium, magnesium, zinc
Spirolina
Blue-green algae
Vitamins: A, B1, B12, D and K
Click here to see the Food Guidelines…
Disclaimer
The sole purpose of these articles is to provide information about the tradition of ayurveda. This information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention of any disease. If you have any serious acute or chronic health concern, please consult a trained health professional who can fully assess your needs and address them effectively. If you are seeking the medical advice of a trained ayurvedic expert, call or e-mail us for the number of a physician in your area. Check with your doctor before taking herbs or using essential oils when pregnant or nursing.
