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Detailed Exploration of Pitta Dosha: Elements, Location, Effects, Symptoms

 

Pitta dosha is made up of two elements 'fire' and 'water'. The word Pitta is derived from the Sanskrit word Tapa which means that the element which produces heat in the body is Pitta. It controls the enzymes and hormones produced in the body. If we understand this in common language, then bile does the work of converting whatever we eat, drink or the air we inhale into blood, bone, marrow, faeces, urine etc. Apart from this, mental functions like intelligence, courage, happiness etc. are also conducted through bile.

 

Deficiency in Pitta means deficiency in your digestive fire. If Pitta Dosha in the body is not in proper condition then it directly means that there is a disturbance in your digestive system.


Location of bile in the body:


The main place of bile in the body is the stomach and small intestine. Apart from this, the middle part of the chest and navel, sweat, lymph, blood, digestive system and urinary system are also the residence of bile.

 

Effect of bile on your body and health:

 

Like Vata, Pitta Dosha also affects the health and nature of the body. The main quality of bile is fire. Due to the balance of Pitta, all the activities related to the stomach and intestine function properly.

 

Inability to tolerate heat, body becoming soft and clean, brown spots on the skin, early graying of hair etc. are the symptoms of Pitta. One of its properties is fluid, due to which symptoms like looseness in muscles and bone joints, sweating, loose stools.

 

Pitta Dosha is responsible for:

  • Transformation and metabolism: Pitta Dosha governs the processes of digestion, absorption, assimilation, and conversion of food into energy and tissues. It also regulates the body temperature, the production of hormones, and the functioning of the liver and spleen.
  • Perception and intelligence: Pitta Dosha enables the senses of sight, taste, and smell, and the ability to comprehend, analyze, and discriminate. It also influences the emotions of courage, confidence, joy, and enthusiasm.
  • Colour and complexion: Pitta Dosha determines the color and quality of the skin, hair, eyes, nails, and blood. It also affects the appearance of freckles, moles, acne, and inflammation.

 

Pitta Dosha has five subtypes, each with a specific location and function in the body. They are:

  • Pachaka Pitta: Located in the stomach and small intestine, it is responsible for the digestion and assimilation of food.
  • Ranjaka Pitta: Located in the liver, spleen, and red blood cells, it is responsible for the formation and purification of blood.
  • Sadhaka Pitta: Located in the heart and brain, it is responsible for the mental functions of memory, intelligence, and emotions.
  • Alochaka Pitta: Located in the eyes, it is responsible for the sense of sight and the perception of colours.
  • Bhrajaka Pitta: Located in the skin, it is responsible for the complexion, temperature, and glow of the skin.

 

Pitta Dosha can be balanced or imbalanced, depending on the lifestyle, diet, environment, and season. When Pitta Dosha is balanced, it manifests as:

  • Good digestion and metabolism
  • Clear and sharp mind
  • Bright and radiant skin
  • Warm and friendly personality
  • Courage and leadership skills

When Pitta Dosha is imbalanced, it manifests as:

  • Acid reflux, ulcers, diarrhea, or constipation
  • Irritability, anger, jealousy, or resentment
  • Skin rashes, acne, or inflammation
  • Premature graying, hair loss, or baldness
  • Excessive sweating, body odor, or fever

To balance Pitta Dosha, one should follow a Pitta-pacifying diet and lifestyle, which includes:

  • Eating cooling, sweet, bitter, and astringent foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and herbs
  • Avoiding spicy, sour, salty, and pungent foods, such as chili, vinegar, pickles, and alcohol
  • Drinking plenty of water, coconut water, or herbal teas
  • Practicing moderation, relaxation, and compassion
  • Avoiding excessive heat, sun, or fire exposure
  • Engaging in calming and cooling activities, such as swimming, walking, or meditation.