| Term | Pitta |
| Alternate Terms | Pitta dosha; Fire dosha; Bile humor; |
| Definition | Pitta is one of the three fundamental doshas in Ayurvedic medicine, embodying the principles of transformation, metabolism, and digestion. It is primarily composed of the elements fire and water, influencing processes such as enzymatic activity, body heat, and the breakdown of food into energy. Balanced Pitta promotes vitality and clarity, while excess can manifest as irritability, inflammation, or hyperacidity. |
| Category | Ayurvedic Dosha |
| Context | In Ayurvedic tradition, Pitta governs the summer season, midday, and the south direction, with its primary site in the small intestine and liver. Imbalances are addressed through cooling foods, bitter and sweet tastes, and calming practices like moon gazing or swimming. In traditional Chinese medicine, Pitta-like qualities align with the Fire element and Yang energy, managed via herbs like Huang Lian for heat-clearing. Naturopathic approaches may parallel Pitta with liver support and anti-inflammatory botanicals, while conventional medicine recognizes these as metabolic and inflammatory pathways treatable with antacids or anti-inflammatories. |
| Etymology | From Sanskrit; 'pitta,' meaning 'bile;' or 'that which digests things;,' referring to its role in digestive secretions; and transformative fire;. |
| Examples | Aloe vera; Brahmi; Coriander; Fennel; Mint; Rose; Sandalwood; |
| Related Terms | Vata; Kapha; Dosha; Agni; Prakriti; Ojas; Dhatus; Fire element; Water element |
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