Pitta Dosha is the energetic force in the body that is made of both the Fire (Agni) and Water (Apas) elements. Pitta stems from the root word Tapas, which can be translated as heat or as austerity. It is said to be the principle of transformation, whether it is turning food into absorbable nutrients or processing thoughts into feelings and emotions. Born of the elements Fire and Water, the qualities this energy possess include hot, sharp, spreading, oily, light and liquid. Therefore, a person of a predominately Pitta constitution or prakrtti will also show attributes of these qualities, both mentally and physically.

Pitta types are typically seen as driven, ambitious and extremely focused individuals. They tend to be presidents, CEOs or other high positions and can become power driven if they are not cautious. These fiery beings are quite organized, goal driven and perfectionists at times. They will rarely let anything get in their way. In a physical sense, Pitta individuals tend to be of medium height and build. They are often fair skinned with freckles and tend to burn easily in the sun. They may have red or blondish hair and hazel or green eyes.

Pitta types tend to have a fairly strong constitution but have to beware of burning themselves out over time. Their hot and sharp nature makes them hot and sharp emotionally as well. This may manifest as anger, “hot temper,” judgment, criticism, resentment or jealousy. They may even be quite judgmental of themselves. Pitta folks enjoy the company of those who will agree with them often, as they don’t like to hear they are wrong.

In terms of digestion, a Pitta individual tends to have a very strong digestive fire, as that is their nature. However, when this fire becomes too strong, issues can arise, such as heartburn, hyperacidity, hypoglycemia, loose stools or diarrhea. If a Pitta type has waited too long between meals, hunger will be sharp and crankiness will arise. Although Pitta types are able to digest a wide array of food, a cooling and soothing diet will work best. This means healthy dairy, healthy sweets, bitter greens, alkaline foods, lime, cilantro, coconut oil, ghee and other cooling foods should be favored. Heating substances such as nightshades (peppers, eggplant, tomatoes), hot spices (ginger, black pepper, cinnamon), onions, garlic, fermented foods, acidic fruits, drugs, alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine should be avoided.

Common Signs of a Pitta Imbalance

• Excessive anger, hate, criticism or jealousy
• Egotism
• Heartburn
• Acid Indigestion
• Inflammation
• Infection
• Ulceration
• Bleeding disorders
• Perspiration
• Sour, acidic or metallic taste in the mouth
• Tenderness
• Photophobia
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Anemia
• Nausea
• Fever