Pitta dosha is the principle of transformation. Pitta describes the functions of fire and water elements, which governs all bodily metabolic processes, from our gut to our cells. We can identify pitta through its qualities of being hot, sharp, oily, light, fleshy-smelling, spreading, and liquid.
When we boil water, it becomes vapor, changing form. Similarly, Pitta transforms everything we take in: from the food we consume, to the information and experiences we process. Pitta transforms food into the cells of our body, information into intelligence, and experience into wisdom.
The functions of pitta include:
- transformation
- metabolism
- digestion
- absorption
- assimilation
- maintenance of body temperature
- appetite
- thirst
- coloration
- visual perception
If there’s a disturbance in any of these bodily functions, pitta is out of balance.
Pitta-predominant individuals tend to have a medium body frame or an athletic build, with fine or thin hair and penetrating eyes. They generally have a sharp intellect and are very achievement-oriented. They tend to be athletes, academics, teachers, doctors, lawyers, or politicians. They can sometimes become overly competitive and tend toward perfectionism, criticism, and judgement.
Because of its fiery qualities, pitta dosha often expresses itself through fiery emotions such as anger, irritablity, aggression, rage, and competitiveness.
Common causes of pitta imbalance include:
- hot, spicy food
- sour or fermented food
- prolonged fasting
- aggression
- anger
- hate
- competitiveness
- judgement or criticism, of both self and others
- perfectionism
- summer heat
How do you know when pitta is out of balance? The following signs and symptoms are indications of pitta imbalance:
- heartburn
- acid indigestion
- inflammation
- infection
- ulceration
- bleeding disorders
- fever
- diarrhea
- vomiting or nausea
- anemia
How do you manage pitta? The following tips will help you keep pitta cool and calm.
- Avoid excessive heat and steam.
- Avoid fried food and excessive oil in the diet.
- Limit salt intake.
- Favor cooling foods, such as cilantro, leafy greens, and cucumber.
- Avoid heating spices, especially chilis.
- Exercise during cooler temperatures.
- Bring awareness to pitta emotions and manage pitta tendencies, such as excessive competitiveness or judgement/criticism.
