A Step-by-Step Guide to Naturally Balancing Pitta Dosha in Hot Weather
In summer, when the external environment is hot, pitta dosha can become aggravated due to the increase in the fire element. This can lead to symptoms such as irritability, inflammation, skin rashes, acid reflux, and excessive sweating.
Pitta dosha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of fire and water. It governs metabolism, digestion, and energy production in the body.
Ayurvedic medicine is rooted in the concept that the universe comprises five elements – space, water, earth, fire, and air. When these elements combine, they form three touches of humour or doshas – vata, kapha, and pitta, which are believed to influence a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Each individual has a distinctive blend of these doshas, with one typically being more dominant than the others. By consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner, one can determine their dosha composition, which in turn shapes their Ayurvedic constitution and guides them towards attaining peak health. Book Your Appointment to know your dosha (body type)
Also Read: Discover Your Unique Dosha and Achieve Balance with Ayurveda
What is Pitta Dosha?
Pitta Dosha is a term derived from the Sanskrit word ‘tapa’, meaning ‘to heat’. In the body, Pitta consists of elements of heat (fire/agni) and moisture (water/jala), giving it a fluid and mobile nature. According to the Ayurvedic text Ashtanga Hrdayam: Sutrasthana, Pitta is described by seven qualities:
- Slightly oily (sa-sneha)
- Penetrating or Sharp (Tikshna)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Light (Laghu)
- Odorous (Vista-gandha)
- Free-flowing (Sara)
- Liquid (Drava)
Pitta is bodily heat energy that governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism, body temperature, skin complexion, lustre of the eyes, intelligence and understanding. Psychologically, Pitta triggers anger, fear, hate, jealousy and so on.
Physical appearance:
A person having Pitta as the governing Dosha has a moderate body with a warm and lustrous complexion. The fire within keeps them shining and they have an average power to also work constantly. Nails and hair are rather oily and flexible as also are his joints and the body. The appetite is good and constant, digestion works well and if not given food at the right time a Pitta person gets easily irritated, angry or even suffers from headaches. His elimination is regular but might tend to suffer loose motions at times.
He takes cooling foods like sweet fruits or milk to cool down. His body feels soft and warm and acne or acidity would be his first companions (or premature graying or losing of hair).
On a mental level:
Pittas are sharp and intelligent. He has insight and analyses things logically down to the root. His ability to grasp things is immense but in the long term he might forget things but not completely so they can be retrieved. He needs average sleeping time and his dreams are colourful and intense. Jealousy is on his cards sometimes.
On an emotional level:
Emotions are strong and “hot-blooded” due to the fire qualities. He is as committed and as detached according to the need of the hour and generally loyal towards his associates
Pitta is responsible for metabolism, digestion, body temperature regulation, visual perception, skin complexion, intellect, and emotions.
If pitta dosha is aggravated in the body what are the pitta dosha symptoms?
An imbalance in the pitta dosha can lead to unhealthy physical and emotional symptoms, such as:
- Increased hunger and thirst
- Infections
- Hair issues
- Hormonal imbalances
- Migraines
- Hot flashes
- Bad breath
- Sore throat
- Insomnia
On a behavioural level, it can manifest as:
- Impatience
- Frustration
- Ego issues
- Jealousy
- Perfectionism
When the pitta dosha is balanced, it can enhance focus, problem-solving skills, and confidence in pursuing goals.
What Causes Imbalance in Pitta Dosha?
Reasons for an imbalance in pitta dosha includes:
- Consuming foods that aggravate pitta, such as pungent and spicy foods, as well as caffeine, alcohol, and other stimulants
- Excessive sun exposure
- Emotional stress
- Overworking without proper rest
What are the Effects of an imbalance in Pitta dosha on Your Health?
-
- Inflammation
- Pus formation
- Swelling in the body
- Acidity and Heartburn
- Sunburns, Eczema, Acne, rashes on the skin, excessive pigmentation
- Increased sweating
- Fearful nightmares of monsters, bloodshed, etc
- Hair loss or premature greying of hair
- Loose motions and extreme smell of excrement
- Burning sensation locally or in urine/stool
-
- Peptic ulcers
- Fever
- Blood clots
- Strokes
- Kidney infections
- Hyperthyroidism
- Jaundice
- Diarrhea
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Poor vision or blindness
- Autoimmune disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Depression
How To Cure Pitta Dosha Naturally Or How To Reduce Pitta Dosha Naturally?
Generally, if there is an excess of intense pitta in your system, it is advisable to counterbalance it by incorporating cooling foods and activities. Ayushakti Ayurved, suggests that introducing spontaneity and relaxation can be beneficial for balancing the intensity and drive of a pitta individual.
- Avoid overcommitting yourself
- Ensure that you include periods of rest in your schedule
- It is recommended to spend time in natural surroundings and keep fresh flowers and plants in your living and work spaces
- Surround yourself with calming colours
- Choose sweet, cooling scents such as rose, mint, jasmine, and chamomile
- A daily massage can aid in calming heightened pitta levels
The most effective way to balance your pitta dosha is to consult with your Ayurvedic practitioner to identify the underlying cause of its aggravation. It is crucial to address this root cause, as individuals with a combination of dosha may experience a variety of symptoms. Attempting to self-diagnose could potentially jeopardize your health. We recommend scheduling an appointment with Ayushakti Ayurved for personalized guidance.
Ayurvedic Home Remedies for Pitta Dosha
Removing Excess Pitta (15 seconds):
Normally, during the night, some Aam or Pitta are accumulated in the mouth, especially at the root of the tongue. If you remove it daily, instead of swallowing it, you will prevent the accumulation of toxins in your body.
Open the mouth and stretch the tongue out. With the index finger, reach the epiglottis and press it slightly. The epiglottis is actually at the root of the tongue. If you press it hard it will stimulate vomiting. So just press it enough to cough lightly. You will instantly have the urge to clear your throat and some mucus will come out. Spit this out.
Remedies to Balance Pitta:
1. Soak twenty black raisins in water; crush them and filter. Drink the mixture.
2. Take one teaspoon of ghee in the morning on an empty stomach
Discover more remedies to balance pitta dosha. Read: 8 Ayurvedic Home Remedies to Calm Your Pitta Dosha
7 Super Herbs for pitta dosha
Ayurvedic herbs play a crucial role in balancing the doshas, especially when it comes to cooling the heat of pitta. These herbs have been used for centuries in Ayurveda to promote balance in the body and mind.
1. Amla is a popular choice for cleansing the digestive system and reducing pitta.
2. Neem is known for its bitter taste and ability to help alleviate pitta imbalances.
3. Triphala formulation offers various benefits, including natural ways to pacify pitta dosha.
4. Hand-churned cow’s milk ghee can help lower body heat and is a great home remedy for pitta.
5. Kalyanaka Ghritham is a medicated ghee containing Triphala, pomegranate, and Indian madder, known for promoting pitta balance.
6. Drinking lukewarm water with cumin powder after lunch can help reduce pitta.
7. Elaichi, or cardamom, is a popular spice in India that has been shown to reduce pitta levels.
Ayurvedic food for pitta dosha
Here are some easy diet tips to help balance Pitta:
- Include pitta-pacifying foods in your diet such as ghee, milk, leafy greens, cucumber, capsicum, and asparagus.
- Opt for grains like rice, and oats to reduce pitta.
- Legumes like lentils, black beans, and split peas can also help balance pitta.
- Nuts and seeds like sunflower seeds, almonds, and pumpkin seeds are beneficial for Pitta.
- Use spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander to aid in balancing Pitta.
- Avoid foods like white sugar, honey, beef, salmon, chicken, cashews, urad dal, bananas, pineapple, beets, garlic, and tomatoes.
- Eat fruits at least an hour before meals for better digestion.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Choose light, easily digestible foods over heavy ones to avoid overburdening your digestive system.
Foods to include to balance pitta dosha:
Sweet fruits like coconuts, figs, apples, sweet black grapes, melons, sweet oranges, pomegranates, resins, etc. sweet and bitter tasting vegetables like cauliflower, french beans, peas, potatoes, all squashes and pumpkins like Ridge gourd, Bottle gourd, snake gourd, red and white pumpkin, barley, rice and wheat, corn, white meat, egg white, etc. You can consume shrimp in a small amount. All legumes, all nuts except peanuts and cashew nuts, pumpkin seeds, unrefined sugar, sugar, Glucose and Fructose, oil, spinach and leafy green vegetables can be consumed in moderation.
What food to avoid in pitta dosha?
Pitta aggravating: Fermented food like pickles, yoghurt, idlis, dosas, etc. sour fruits like lemons, oranges, pineapples, plums, sour grapes, papayas, grapefruits, peaches, strawberries, etc. pungent vegetables like brinjals, chillies, capsicums, radishes, tomatoes, millet, beef, eggs, red meat, seafood, Sesame oil, black pepper, Asafoetida (Hing), peanut, cashew nuts and honey.
To balance pitta dosha during summer, it is recommended to stay cool, avoid spicy and hot foods, stay hydrated, and practice calming activities like yoga and meditation.
Best Time For Pitta Dosha
Pitta dosha Time is from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Pitta dosha rises at this point. Because your digestive fire is at its peak in the middle of the day, this is the ideal time to eat your largest meal.
Additionally, it is the most productive time of day. Follow your Pitta sign’s strong propensity to manage, organize, and solve problems, so plan accordingly.
4 Easy Yoga Poses to Balance Pitta Dosha
When it comes to maintaining a balanced dosha, incorporating yoga and exercise into your lifestyle can be highly beneficial. Specific yoga poses can help the body naturally regulate Pitta levels and promote overall well-being.
4 yoga poses that serve as effective home remedies for Pitta imbalance:
1. Child’s Pose (Balasana) – This pose applies gentle pressure to the abdominal area while also stimulating the kidneys and bladder.
2. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) – By balancing the Ayurvedic doshas, this pose benefits the spleen, stomach, heart, and small intestine.
3. Cat Stretch Pose (Marjaryasana) – Working on the solar plexus (Manipura Chakra), this pose strengthens the core and enhances spinal flexibility.
4. Revolved Abdomen Twist Pose (Jathara Parivartanasana) – This pose aids in stimulating the kidneys and bladder, promoting relaxation of both the body and mind.
It is advisable to practice yoga poses during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, as they can generate heat within the body.
FAQs
Is ginger good for pitta dosha?
It is advisable to include ginger in your diet as it aids in balancing the pitta dosha. However, dry ginger tends to be more heating and may be too intense for those with a pitta dosha. Dry ginger balances excess Kapha and enhances digestive fire (Agni). Other beneficial spices for pitta dosha include basil, black pepper, coriander, fennel, mint, and cinnamon
How to get instant relief from Pitta symptoms?
Consider changing your diet to include more cooling foods and beverages to reduce Pitta and body heat.
Is coconut oil good for pitta dosha?
Coconut oil is known for its cooling and soothing properties, making it an ideal option for those with a predominant Pitta constitution. It aids in balancing the heat and intensity often linked to Pitta. Coconut oil is especially advantageous in summer or in warm and humid environments.
What are some effective home remedies for pitta headaches?
One remedy is to massage warm coconut oil onto your scalp and the soles of your feet.
Is honey good for pitta dosha?
Pitta types or individuals with a Pitta imbalance should steer clear of honey. While the sweet taste may be seen as cooling in Ayurveda, honey has a heating effect. Therefore, it is recommended that those with Pitta characteristics or imbalances such as hyperacidity, eczema, psoriasis, rash, etc. refrain from consuming honey, especially in large quantities or regularly.
Keep in mind that Ayurveda stresses personalized approaches, so consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner for tailored advice is crucial.
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Blog Author: Dr Ashwini Borate
Expert Review: Dr Smita Pankaj Naram
Co-Founder, Ayushakti Ayurved Pvt Ltd
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before trying or consuming any medicines, home remedies or treatments mentioned in this blog. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.