The ancient science of Ayurveda divides bodily compositions into three tendencies or dosha, namely, Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each of these are attuned to the rhythms of nature and the five elements of earth, water, fire, space and air such that imbalances in the body are often categorised in Ayurveda as fluctuations in the levels of these elements within internal bodily systems.
One of the most common imbalances that occurs in the body, particularly when the weather turns too warm or humid is excess of Pitta dosha, or the increase in body heat. Since Ayurveda is a science invested in going to the root of a disease rather than simply treating its symptoms, restoring the balance of the three doshas leads to eliminating the ailments the body experiences. Normally, excessive acid reflux, indigestion, increased anger and anxiety, constipation, rashes and hot flashes can be attributed to an increase in Pitta dosha. This means that body heat or the fire element overpowers the elements of Vata and Kapha.
There are some home remedies which can help to combat the rising levels of Pitta and restore physical and mental health. Ayurvedic medicinal science advocates adding sweet, bitter and astringent foods to your diet to lower the inflammation caused due to the Pitta dosha. Salty and pungent foods are to be avoided to reduce body heat and cool the inner temperatures. Read on below for some food groups that can help to restore Pitta levels:
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats like ghee and sesame oil are natural lubricators. If you are suffering from constipation due to excessive Pitta, have a spoonful of ghee, which acts as a coolant, and wash it down with lukewarm water. Additionally, you can also have a spoonful of raw oil which can help to ease pain in the joints and reduce stiffness.
Herbal Infusions
Avoid drinking too much tea, coffee or any other caffeinated beverage. This can increase body heat and cause a rapid uptick in anxiety levels. Instead, go for herbal infusions or spiced teas to reduce inflammation. Cinnamon and water or turmeric and warm water are good alternatives to reduce body heat and smoothen digestive processes.
Water
One of the easiest ways to inhibit the effects of imbalance in Pitta levels in the body is to drink water and stay hydrated. However, have lukewarm water or room temperature water because cold or iced water can tend to increase the heat in the body. Filtered water helps to quench digestive fire and acts as a coolant that slowly reduces Pitta.
Vegetables
Adding vegetables rich in dietary fibre like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and sprouts or green beans to your diet can help to soothe digestive fire. This is because the high fibre content engages the stomach's digestive juices and helps to gradually cool down the body. If you are experiencing stomach trouble, the fibre-rich foods will also help to deal with constipation.
Pitta-Inhibiting Spices
Pair your vegetables with spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander and cardamom which are spices that help to balance out the Pitta dosha. Instead of making your food too spicy and increasing the risk of further stomach trouble, add these cooling spices in moderate proportions to curries and subzis. Turmeric also has anti-inflammatory properties which boost the immune system and fight off infection.
Grains
Start your day with grains like oats and quinoa and have a bit of rice at lunch to balance out the Pitta dosha. These grains can be easy on the digestive system and provide adequate nourishment and energy. They can promote good digestion, reducing acid reflux and diarrhoea. The wholesome rice or oats recipes also satiate the mind and have a calming and relaxing effect that reduces levels of anxiety.
Cooling Drinks
Along with water, add other cooling drinks to your diet like a cup of cold milk to ward off acidity. You can also drink coconut water to pump your body up with electrolytes that will help to maintain pH balance in the body and act as a coolant to soothe the digestive fire. Be sure to have coconut water before noon for maximum benefits.
Refreshing Mukhwas
Chew on some roasted fennel or any mukhwas of your choice after a meal to boost digestion. As the digestive system is restored, so too the raging stomach fire will cool down and Pitta levels will experience a drop. Fennel seeds or saunf mixed with saliva can help to produce enzymes that boost gut health.