The questions had three options for which the participant could choose the best-suited response referring to physical and psychological characteristics assigned to
Kapha (K) Vata (V) or Pitta (P).
We already know that digestive phlegm and bile are produced during digestion; therefore in terms of the five-fold typologies they must be "moistening phlegm" (kledaka
kapha) and "cooking bile" (pacaka pitta).
Kapha imbalances most often involve excess of fluids, such as conditions of the lymphatic system.
In determining the correct treatment for each person, Ayurvedic medicine analyses the human body in terms of earth, water, fire, air and ether as well as the three bodily humours: vata, pitta and
kapha. It relies on ailments, herbal medicine, diet and physiotherapy to cure illness and emphasises mental awareness and yoga as a means of prevention.
In Ayurvedic medicine it is known as vamana therapy, and is used to rid the body of excess mucus and water (that is known as
kapha) that collects on the lungs and "disturbs the mind and clouds the senses" (Frawley 2000).
People who need to balance pitta and
kapha generally need to eat more bitter and astringent foods according to Ayurveda.
"The basic principle of Ayurveda is that there are three energies in our body, Vata, Pitta and
Kapha, which are controlling all of our functions," explained Dr Asha Jones, an Ayurvedic Practitioner at the Dubai Herbal Treatment Centre (DHTC).
After assessing whether your skin is Pitta, Vata or
Kapha, the therapist uses the most suitable organic, Ayurvedic products from Subtle Energies (www.subtleenergies.com.
In Ayurveda these are quantified in the understanding of the Doshas: known as Vata, Pitta and
Kapha. These three energies control the formation and functions of the body on the physical and emotional levels.
According to Dr George, each human body comes under one of three categories: Vata, Pita and
Kapha, each with its unique character traits.