Significance of Doshas

According to Ayurveda there are three vital principles, which regulate and control the biological functions of the body. They are known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. They are the subtle forms of the three bhutas -air, fire and water. Doshas play a vital role in the basic foundation of Ayurveda. They are responsible foe coordinating and directing all the substances and structures of the body. Doshas are referred to as 'dynamic energies' and 'vata dosha' are kinetic energy. Vata doshas initiate all forms of activity and motion in the body. It acts as a network of communication from tissue to tissue and cell to cell. It is responsible for perception, assimilation and reaction. Vata doshas is the basis of all communication process in the body. All motions, transportation and electromagnetic activities are controlled by vata. 'Pitta dosha' is responsible for all types of transformations in the body. Pitta controls digestion of food as well as conversion of light rays that fall on the retina to electric impulses. It is mainly associated with the chemical reaction and changes taking place in the body. Pitta controls emotion like anger, fear and boldness. Pitta controls digestion of food, it is responsible for hunger, appetite and thirst. The functions of pitta are more physical compare to vata. There are mainly five types of pitta dosha. The quality of Pitta dosha' is most predominant during youth and adulthood. 'Pitta' reflects the dynamics of youth. Kapah dosha is the third important part of dosha. It is the cohesive energy in the body, it smoothes out problems, lubricates and provides support when needed. If 'vata' is kinetic energy then 'kapha' is potential energy. Kapha is the principle of water and earth is heavy and moist. It is said that carbohydrates and fats can increase 'kapha' There are five types of kapha dosha, based on both anatomy and body function. 'Kapha' abnormalities lead to respiratory disease, feeble mindedness, weakness and lethargy.

It is seen that the dead body and the other inanimate objects have none of the three doshas. Which proves that all the three doshas are invariably connected with life. Each of them has it's own significance and qualities, which are contrary to each other so as to maintain the equilibrium.