The Pitta dosha is governed by fire and water, although the former is more pronounced. Pitta regulates metabolism, body temperature, digestion, and intelligence - all bodily functions related to transformation. It's responsible for the digestive fire or agnis of the body.
Pitta Dosha Characteristics
The qualities or characteristics of Pitta are hot, light, liquid, oily, sharp, and spreading or mobile. It is also subtle and clear. Those who are dominated by the Pitta dosha and have a Pitta constitution are more likely to possess the following features:- Hot - Warm temperature, passionate, quick to anger, and strong metabolism, appetite, and digestion
- Light - Alert, light colored eyes and thin, light hair
- Liquid - Excess bodily fluids, like urine and sweat, and looser stools.
- Oily - Vigor, oily skin and feces.
- Sharp - Sharp memory and intellect, intense eyes, and irritability
- Spreading or mobile - Active, goal-oriented, and prone to rash, acne, and inflammation
In general, Pitta types have a medium frame with a strong build, moderate prominence of veins, light hair, sharp eyes, soft nails and a sharp nose. When a Pitta type is balanced, they will generally have a smooth digestion and a healthy complexion. They will also sleep for a medium duration, generally uninterrupted. Pitta types are naturally filled with energy and will have a strong appetite, not just for food but for life in general. Pittas are ambitious, confident, courageous, intelligent, and passionate. They love to experience everything to its fullest. A healthy balanced Pitta will have no problem concentrating. They can easily make decisions and make natural teachers and leaders.
Pitta Imbalance
Pittas can become imbalanced when Pitta qualities (hot, light, liquid, oily, sharp, and spreading or mobile) accumulate and build up within the body and mind due to an incorrect diet and/or lifestyle. Some examples of Pitta aggravating activities include eating spicy foods, drinking coffee, getting too much sun, pushing yourself too hard and experiencing emotional stress.
When there is a Pitta imbalance, people may struggle with skin conditions such as acne, rashes or eczema. They may develop digestive issues like heartburn, acid indigestion, ulcers, diarrhea, gastritis or become extremely hot and prone to hot flashes and fevers. They can also experience early graying of the hair and eye conditions. Mentally and emotionally, Pitta imbalance can lead to anger or irrational outbursts. Pitta types may lose their 'filter' and speak out harshly or critically. They may experience irritation, impatience, frustration, aggression, hatred, judgement, criticism, and jealousy. Read more about the symptoms of a Pitta imbalance.
Pitta Cycles in Nature
According to Ayurveda, Pitta governs 10 AM to 2 PM and 10 PM to 2 AM. The former period of the day is a time of heightened productivity. The sun is highest in the sky, creating more heat in the natural world. This increases our digestive fires and influences our energy. If you're a Pitta type, it's important to be mindful of this time of day as it's more likely you will fall out of balance.
In addition, during Pitta season, which occurs in the summer months between late spring and early fall, Pitta types must be extra cautious of imbalances. The hot, bright and sharp qualities of summer can accumulate, leading to imbalances in both Pitta and non Pitta types.
Balancing Pitta Dosha
In Ayurveda, like increase like and opposites balance so the qualities or characteristics that balance Pitta include cool, heavy, dense, dry, slow, dull, and static. This means that you should make diet, exercise and lifestyle choices that align with these qualities.
Read our guide to balancing Pitta dosha, which includes tips for:
- Cleansing Pitta from the body
- What to eat to balance Pitta
- How to create a Pitta balancing routine
- Exercising to satisfy and soothe Pitta
- Meditation and Pranayama
- Lifestyle considerations
- Pitta remedies