The Pitta-Kapha Type in Ayurveda
Best Tips for Everyday Life, Nutrition, Yoga & Meditation
With the Pitta-Kapha Ayurveda type, the Doshas (life forces) Pitta and Kapha are both equally strong in a person. The combination is characterized by solid health, however, some tips should be considered.
What Does Pitta-Kapha Mean?
The relationship between Vata, Pitta, and Kapha determines our constitution: physically, mentally, and emotionally. The so-called Ayurveda type is therefore the starting point for all Ayurvedic health recommendations.
In the Pitta-Kapha type, Pitta—which constantly wants to prove itself in competitions and goes through life with strong willpower—unites with the more sedate and very grounded Kapha—which cannot be flustered and also enjoys putting the feet up and relaxing.
Depending on whether Pitta or Kapha is somewhat more pronounced in the individual, one speaks of the Pitta-Kapha or Kapha-Pitta type. However, the following recommendations apply equally to both.
Character of the Pitta-Kapha Type
The Pitta-Kapha type is the strong one among the constitutional types—very robust and resilient. This strength allows such people to assume leadership roles and assert themselves well. Additionally, their perseverance provides enough energy to promote and support long-term projects.
The Pitta-Kapha type is a born CEO, provided that his/her education is suitable for such a position.
Physical Characteristics of the Pitta-Kapha Type
The Dosha combination of the Pitta-Kapha Ayurveda type is basically a very healthy variant; the fiery aspect of Pitta works with the grounded Kapha, which (ideally) maintains the balance.
Generally speaking, the Pitta-Kapha or Kapha-Pitta constitution—at least until around the age of 50—has the right degree of Agni (digestive fire) and can tolerate virtually everything up to this point. Yet (or perhaps precisely because of this), there is a tendency toward an unhealthy lifestyle: too little exercise, too much food, a bit too much indulgence. Accordingly, this type frequently tends to be overweight.
Typical Pitta-Kapha Disorders
Pitta-Kapha and Kapha-Pitta people, due to the unhealthy lifestyle tendency described above, are prone to impurities, obesity, skin diseases, and foul-smelling perspiration. Furthermore, as the Kapha type likes to cling to things, toxins are absorbed and retained by the body.
Health Tips for Vata-Kapha Types
An Agni-balance is important for the Pitta-Kapha type, both because of the many Ama deposits and water retention as well as intoxications. Agni stimulation works, for example, by means of ginger, long pepper, and black pepper.
Boerhaavia diffusa or Cyavanprash (Bai 203), the Amla fruit jam, can serve (primarily preventively because this Dosha combination generally enjoys good health) as Rasayana (rejuvenation agents).
A regular, powerful, and dynamic fitness program, dynamic meditation, challenges at work, and regular trips to the sauna are also recommended.
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Health Tips for Pitta-Kapha Types
Pitta-Kapha types should utilize the nutrition tips for both Doshas. However, contradictions may occur.
The basic rule is that the somewhat more pronounced Dosha should take precedence. Furthermore, the more active Dosha in the respective season should be pacified: Kapha is more present from February to May, Pitta from June to September.
Generally, warm, well-seasoned food and drinks are suitable, as well as oils and ice-cold drinks from time to time. The diet should be well balanced and include all elements, so that the already existing balance can be maintained.
Pitta
Sweet fruits like: apples, avocados, coconuts, figs, melons, oranges, pears, plums, pomegranates, and mangos. Dried fruit is to be avoided.
Kapha
Apple, berries, cherries, mangos, peaches, pears, and raisins are recommended. Dried figs and plums are good, but other dried fruits should be avoided if possible.
The following general rule applies to fruit consumption: at least one hour before or after meals, but not in the evening.
Pitta
Sweet and bitter: asparagus, cabbage, cucumber, cauliflower, celery, green beans, lettuce, peas, parsley, potatoes, zucchini, sprouts, cress, chicory, and mushrooms.
Kapha
Spicy and bitter: red beets, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, eggplant, garlic, lettuce, mushrooms, onions, parsley, peas, radish, spinach, sprouts, fennel, and Brussels sprouts.
Pitta
Barley, oats (cooked), basmati or white rice, and wheat.
Kapha
Barley, corn, millet, oats, basmati rice (small quantities).
Pitta
Eggs are fine. Other animal products are best to avoid.
Kapha
Eggs (scrambled eggs, no fried eggs), chicken, turkey, and rabbit.
Pitta
All legumes, except for lentils.
Kapha
All legumes except for white beans and black lentils. Azuki and black beans are good.
Pitta
Brown sugar, honey (not older than six months).
Kapha
Only organic honey and jaggery.
Pitta
No spices except for cilantro, cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, fennel, and some black pepper.
Kapha
All spices.
Pitta
Butter (unsalted), ghee, goat milk, cow milk, pans, and cheese. Soy milk and tofu as a vegan substitute.
Kapha
Reduced-fat milk in small quantities; avoid fatty cheeses and curd (quark). Soy milk is preferable in general.
Pitta
Coconut oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, and soy oil.
Kapha
Walnut and corn oil, but just a little.
Pitta
Ghee, cold water, and milk.
Kapha
Organic honey as carrier substance for herbs.
All Ayurveda Types
Vata, Pitta, or Kapha? The combination of your Doshas is essential for your health. When you know what constitution you have, you better understand why you are the way you are at times. You discover what nutrition is suitable for you and how you can stay healthy, fit, and happy with yoga, exercise, and meditation.
With the free Ayurveda Test from Euroved, you’ll find out what Ayurveda type you are. Simply answer a few questions about your physical, mental, and emotional aspects to get free health and nutrition tips for your personal constitution.
