Types of Ayurvedic doshas are primarily of three different types, `vata dosha`, `pitta dosha` and `kapha dosha`. It is believed that these doshas are the last components of human psychology. In Ayurveda, it is considered that this particular aspect of the body is really of vital importance as it is responsible for coordinating and directing of all the substances and structures of the body. Doshas is defined as the biological type, or the physical constitution of the human body, whose imbalance causes serious maladies. The study of such doshas is termed as the `tridosha theory`.
Vatta Dosha
Vata dosha is concerned with the mobilization of the various functions of the nervous system of the body. It is said that vata dosha is composed of the elements of air and earth. Actions involving blood circulation, respiration, touch, speech, hearing, sensation, sexual intercourses, formation of human foetus, and sensation of fear, anxiety or stress are controlled by this dosha. Vata is said to exist below the naval and the lower part of the body. It affects diseases rheumatism, gout, flatulence, etc. There are five types of vata dosha are prana dosha, udana dosha, samana dosha, apana dosha and vyana dosha.
Pitta Dosha
The elements of water and fire include the composition of pitta dosha. Physical issues like sexual vigour, digestion, heat regulation, softness and luster, hunger, thirst and other factors are regulated by this dosha. According to Asthanga Ayurveda, the site of existence of pitta is between the naval line and the `epigastrum` line. Pitta dosha is responsible for maintaining the metabolism of the human body. This dosha is secreted near the bowels and heat is its main quality. The five different forms of pitta dosha are: pachaka pitta, ranjaka pitta, alochaka pitta, sadhaka pitta and bhrajaka pitta.
Kapha Dosha
Kapha dosha is made up of earth and water. In the opinion of Ashtanga Ayurveda, kapha exists in the upper part of the body, above the `epigastrium` line, mainly investing the thoracic cavity, upper limbs and head. Kapha dosha controls sexual potency, heaviness, firmness, strength and forbearances. Kapha doshas are of five kinds. They are: Kledaka Kapha, Avalambaka Kapha, Tarpaka Kapha, Bodhaka Kapha and Sleshaka Kapha.
In Sanskrit dialect, dosha implies `doosyati iti doshah`, which in simpler terms means, `contaminating agents`. Therefore, doshas are considered pathogenic factors which cause ailments in human bodies. Experts advise that one should follow an ayurvedic diet which pacifies the specific doshas existent in one`s physical and mental conditions. Various doshas govern different elements in one`s bodies like the nervous system, physical metabolism and body fluids.
