The Three Doshas (three humors) in Human Body

Doshas are the manifestations of the elemental forces in human body. Ayurveda says that there are three kinds of Doshas (Tridosha) - Vata, Pitta and Kapha, and the imbalance(Vikruti) of these Doshas (or Dosas) is the root cause of most of our physical and mental problems. Dominance of a Dosha determines body type or "Prakriti" of an individual. Vata type: Vata is identified with "Marut" or air and "Byoma" or space, thus maintaining mobility. Pitta type: Pitta is identified with "Agni" or fire and controls digestion and assimilation. Kapha type: Kapha is identified with "Apa" or water and "Kshiti" or earth and maintain formation or body structure. Characteristics of Vata type people: They are generally thin in structure. They perform any activity quickly. They have irregular hunger and digestion. They can grasp any information quickly and quickly forget them. They have tendency toward constipation. They have light and interrupted sleep and generally suffer from insomnia. Their moods change frequently. They become tired easily. Their mental and physical energy comes in bursts. Common physical ailments: Vata types are prone to insomnia, chronic constipation, anxiety and depression, muscular spasm, chronic pain, high blood pressure and arthrarhitis.Characteristics of Pitta type people:They are generally medium built. They have medium strength and endurance. They have sharp intelligence. They have sharp hunger and thirst, strong digestive capacity. They easily become irritated and angry under stress. They have aversion to sun and hot weather. They have precise, articulate speech. They cannot skip meals. Common physical ailments: Pitta type is prone to rashes, acne, heartburns, ulcers, premature balding, poor eyesight and premature gray hair.Characteristics of Kapha type people: They are generally solid; powerfully build with great physical strength and endurance. They have steady energy, slow and graceful in action. They are slow to anger. They have good memory. They are affectionate, tolerant and forgiving. They have slow digestion and mild hunger. They are generally possessive and complacent. Common physical ailments: Kapha type is prone to obesity, congested sinuses, chest colds, painful joints, asthma, diabetes and high cholesterol.