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07_Ayurveda 1 Flashcards

Introduction

1
Q

What is Ayurveda?

A

The traditional healing system of India

Ayurveda is often referred to as the ‘Knowledge of Life’ in Sanskrit.

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2
Q

What do the terms ‘Ayur’ and ‘Veda’ mean?

A

‘Ayur’ means life and ‘Veda’ means knowledge

Together, they form the term Ayurveda, which translates to ‘Knowledge of Life’.

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3
Q

How old are the records of Ayurveda?

A

Around 4,000 years

The tradition is believed to be much older and was initially a verbal tradition.

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4
Q

What are the Vedas?

A

Sacred Indian scriptures that set out the central philosophies of Indian civilization

The Vedas include various texts that encompass different aspects of life and knowledge.

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5
Q

Which Veda focuses on health and is the basis of Ayurveda?

A

Atharva Veda

The Atharva Veda dates back to around 1000 BC and includes procedures for everyday life.

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6
Q

In what language are Ayurvedic terms primarily written?

A

Sanskrit

Sanskrit is the ancient language of India.

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7
Q

Name three ancient Ayurvedic texts.

A
  • Caraka Samhita
  • Sushurta Samhita
  • Ashtanga Hridayam

These texts are fundamental for students of Ayurveda in India.

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8
Q

What has recently overtaken Ayurveda in India?

A

Modern medicine

Despite this, Ayurveda still holds significant importance among traditional populations.

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9
Q

How is Ayurveda described in terms of its historical significance?

A

One of the great unbroken medicine traditions of the planet

Ayurveda has been practiced continuously for thousands of years.

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10
Q

What does Ayurveda encompass beyond herbal medicines?

A
  • Foods
  • Dietary practices
  • Minerals
  • Lifestyle practices
  • Exercises
  • Thoughts
  • Environmental influences

Ayurveda has a broad scope that seeks to enhance overall health and well-being.

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11
Q

According to Ayurveda, what does every element in the natural world possess?

A

Therapeutic potential

This reflects the holistic view of Ayurveda regarding health and healing.

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12
Q

True or False: Ayurveda is only focused on herbal remedies.

A

False

Ayurveda includes a wide range of therapeutic practices and lifestyle approaches.

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13
Q

Fill in the blank: Ayurveda is a complete way of life that seeks to enhance health and wellbeing by encouraging _______.

A

Physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual balance

This holistic approach is a core principle of Ayurvedic practice.

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14
Q

What are the five great elements according to Ayurveda?

A

Ether, Air, Fire, Water, Earth

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15
Q

What does Ether represent in Ayurveda?

A

The space in which things exist

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16
Q

How is Ether described in terms of visibility and measurement?

A

Difficult to define, cannot be seen or measured, has no substance

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17
Q

What are some manifestations of Ether in our existence?

A
  • Clear thoughts
  • Deep sleep
  • Silence
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18
Q

What is the lightest state of matter according to Ayurvedic principles?

A

Air

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19
Q

How does Air relate to the physical world?

A

Relates to wind, gaseous substances, rapid movements, lightness

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20
Q

What are some examples of the Air element in our diet?

A
  • Light meals
  • Dry foods
  • Fasting
  • Gas-forming legumes
  • Cooling bitter herbs
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21
Q

What is the principal of transformation in Ayurveda?

A

Fire

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22
Q

What aspects does Fire relate to?

A
  • Anything hot
  • Energetic
  • Emits light
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23
Q

What does Fire manifest in the body?

A
  • Body heat
  • Digestion
  • Metabolism
  • Enzymes
  • Hormones
  • Vital Force
  • Mental creativity
  • Passion
  • Inspiration
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24
Q

What are some foods that represent the Fire element?

A
  • Warm cooked food and drinks
  • Hot spices
  • Sour and fermented foods
  • Red meat
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25
What principle does Water represent?
Cohesion
26
What does Water relate to in the physical world?
* Anything fluid * Rainfall * Humidity * Oceans * Rivers * Plant juices
27
What are some manifestations of Water in the body?
* Body fluids (lymph, plasma, synovial fluids) * Mucous membranes * Hydrated tissues
28
What are some examples of the Water element in our diet?
* Soups * Broths * Juices * Teas * Fluids * High water content fruits and vegetables
29
What does Earth represent in Ayurveda?
The principle of structure
30
What does Earth relate to in the physical world?
* Substantial and solid things * Rocks * Minerals * Soil * Woody structures
31
What are some manifestations of Earth in the body?
* Bones * Firm muscles * Physical strength
32
What are some foods that represent the Earth element?
* Heavy meals * Baked foods * Thick stews * Root vegetables * Protein and nutrient-dense foods
33
True or False: Energetic practitioners learn to recognize the elements in diseases and treatments.
True
34
Fill in the blank: The five elements can be applied in practical ways by learning to perceive the _______.
[elements]
35
What is a unique aspect of perceiving the elements in Ayurveda for the modern Western mind?
It is a different way of thinking
36
What are the Twenty Attributes in Ayurveda?
Ten pairs of opposite adjectives used to describe all phenomena ## Footnote Known as Gunas in Sanskrit, they identify energetic similarities and differences.
37
What is the significance of the attributes in Ayurveda?
They allow for natural and intuitive diagnostic and therapeutic connections ## Footnote They focus on qualities rather than chemical constituents.
38
Which attributes are most important for practicing energetic medicine?
* Hot * Cold * Dry * Wet
39
What does the hot attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Fire element, associated with high temperatures, summer, and passion ## Footnote Includes hot food and drinks, spicy herbs.
40
What does the cold attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Air, water, and earth elements, associated with low temperatures and winter ## Footnote Includes cold water and raw food.
41
What does the wet attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Water element, associated with humidity and liquid foods ## Footnote Includes soups, juices, and mucilaginous herbs.
42
What does the dry attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Air and earth elements, associated with dry substances and windy weather ## Footnote Includes dry foods and herb powders.
43
What does the heavy attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Earth element, associated with physical heaviness and structure ## Footnote Includes heavy meals and proteins.
44
What does the light attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Air and ether elements, associated with physical lightness and adaptability ## Footnote Includes light meals and fasting.
45
What does the gross attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Earth element, associated with substantial and hard-to-digest substances ## Footnote Water becomes gross when frozen.
46
What does the subtle attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Air, ether, and fire elements, associated with insubstantial and easily absorbed substances ## Footnote Water is subtle when it becomes steam.
47
What does the dense attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Earth element, associated with solid and compact structures ## Footnote Includes muscles, bones, and root vegetables.
48
What does the flowing attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Fire and water elements, associated with smooth movements and liquid foods ## Footnote Includes oils and liquid substances.
49
What does the static attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Earth element, associated with lack of movement and physical stability ## Footnote Includes heavy foods and sweets.
50
What does the mobile attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Air element, associated with movement and flexibility ## Footnote Includes light food and running.
51
What does the dull attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Earth element, associated with poor sense perception and foggy mind ## Footnote Includes bland food and sedatives.
52
What does the sharp attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Fire element, associated with the ability to penetrate and digestive effectiveness ## Footnote Includes hot spices and sour foods.
53
What does the soft attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Water element, associated with flexibility and a soft touch ## Footnote Includes demulcent herbs and porridge.
54
What does the hard attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Earth element, associated with rigidity and inflexibility ## Footnote Includes nuts and seeds.
55
What does the smooth attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Water and fire elements, associated with a smooth touch and relaxation ## Footnote Includes oils and liquids.
56
What does the rough attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Air element, associated with a rough texture and dryness ## Footnote Includes rough textured foods and astringent herbs.
57
What does the cloudy attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Water and earth elements, associated with obscuring and soothing effects ## Footnote Includes cloudy liquids and foggy weather.
58
What does the clear attribute represent in Ayurveda?
Air, water, and ether elements, associated with clarity and cleansing effects ## Footnote Includes pure water and clean air.
59
Fill in the blank: The attribute that represents high temperatures and summer is _______.
Hot
60
Fill in the blank: The attribute that represents low temperatures and winter is _______.
Cold
61
True or False: The soft attribute in Ayurveda is associated with hard, rigid structures.
False
62
True or False: The mobile attribute is linked to flexibility and speed.
True
63
What are the three Doshas in Ayurveda?
Vata, Pitta, Kapha ## Footnote Dosha means ‘stain, fault, or something that can go wrong’.
64
What do the Doshas govern?
Metabolic, biological, mental functions, and maintain homeostasis.
65
What causes diseases according to the Dosha theory?
Aggravated (excessive) Doshas.
66
What factors can increase Doshas?
Diet, lifestyle, thought patterns, emotions, climates, environments, times of the day, seasons, life stages.
67
What does Vata govern?
Movement.
68
What are the elements that compose Vata?
Air and ether.
69
List some attributes of Vata.
* Cold * Dry * Light * Subtle * Mobile * Sharp * Hard * Rough * Clear
70
What are the main functions of Vata?
* Movement * Nerve impulses * Physiological activities * Mental activities * Sensory activities * Breathing * Peristalsis * Rapid adaptable thinking * Flexibility * Natural urges
71
What is the main 'home' of Vata?
The colon.
72
What are the first signs of Vata aggravation?
Increased levels of gas, lower abdominal cramps, bloating, constipation.
73
What are some other signs of Vata aggravation?
* Anxiety * Restlessness * Tremors * Spasms * Weight loss * Fatigue * Dizziness * Insomnia * Dry skin
74
What aggravates Vata?
* Too much movement * Cold * Dry foods * Dehydration * Autumn season * Senior years
75
What herbs can be used for Vata issues?
* Demulcent herbs (e.g., marshmallow, flaxseeds) * Carminative herbs (e.g., fennel seeds) * Aromatic spices (e.g., fresh ginger) * Calming herbs (e.g., chamomile, ashwagandha)
76
What are the five subtypes of Vata?
* Prana * Udana * Vyana * Samana * Apana
77
What does Prana govern?
Inwards movement (e.g., inhaling, swallowing).
78
What does Udana govern?
Upward movement (e.g., exhaling, speaking).
79
What does Vyana govern?
Circulating movement (e.g., blood circulation).
80
What does Samana promote?
Digestion and peristalsis movements.
81
What does Apana govern?
Downward movements (e.g., defecation, urination).
82
What does Pitta govern?
Digestion and transformation.
83
What are the elements that compose Pitta?
Fire and water.
84
List some attributes of Pitta.
* Hot * Moist * Light * Subtle * Flowing * Sharp * Smooth * Clear
85
What are the main functions of Pitta?
* Breakdown of food * Metabolism * Assimilation of food * Regulation of body temperature * Hunger and thirst * Intelligence and creativity
86
What is the main 'home' of Pitta?
The small intestine.
87
What are the first signs of Pitta aggravation?
Diarrhoea and burning digestive problems.
88
What are some other signs of Pitta aggravation?
* Fever * Redness * Irritability * Burning sensations * Inflammation
89
What aggravates Pitta?
* Too much heat * Spicy foods * Stress * Summer season
90
What herbs can be used for Pitta issues?
* Detoxifying herbs (e.g., yellow dock) * Chologogue herbs (e.g., dandelion root) * Mucilaginous herbs (e.g., aloe vera)
91
What are the five subtypes of Pitta?
* Sadhaka * Alochaka * Bhrajaka * Ranjaka * Pachaka
92
What does Sadhaka govern?
Consciousness and intellectual goals.
93
What does Alochaka govern?
Visual perception.
94
What does Kapha govern?
Stability and lubrication.
95
What are the elements that compose Kapha?
Earth and water.
96
List some attributes of Kapha.
* Cool * Moist * Heavy * Static * Soft * Smooth * Cloudy
97
What are the main functions of Kapha?
* Building physical mass * Developing structure * Lubricating joints * Providing endurance
98
What is the main 'home' of Kapha?
The stomach and lungs.
99
What are the first signs of Kapha aggravation?
Mucus build-up.
100
What are some other signs of Kapha aggravation?
* Fluid retention * Lethargy * Weight gain * Depression
101
What aggravates Kapha?
* Cold * Dampness * Lack of activity * Winter season
102
What herbs can be used for Kapha issues?
* Warming herbs (e.g., dry ginger) * Expectorants (e.g., aniseed) * Astringent herbs (e.g., green tea)
103
What are the five subtypes of Kapha?
* Tarpaka * Bodhaka * Kledaka * Sleshaka * Avalambaka
104
What does Tarpaka govern?
Nourishment of the brain and spine.
105
SQ: What foods and influences cause Vata aggravation? How might this show?
106
SQ: Discuss TWO herbal and TWO dietary strategies for balancing Vata.
107
SQ: What foods and influences cause Pitta aggravation? How might this show?
108
SQ: Discuss TWO herbal and TWO dietary strategies for balancing Pitta.
109
SQ: What foods and influences cause Kapha aggravation? How might this show?
110
SQ: Discuss TWO herbal & TWO dietary strategies for balancing Kapha
111
What are the characteristics referred to as our constitution?
Physical shape, mental type, emotional type, personality type, specific disease risks ## Footnote These characteristics develop as we grow and can change based on various factors.
112
What factors can alter energetics in individuals?
Age, environment, season, lifestyle ## Footnote Despite these changes, a dominant constitution often remains throughout life.
113
What are the three primary Ayurvedic constitutions?
Vata, Pitta, Kapha ## Footnote A person may also have a mixed constitution.
114
Why is recognizing constitution important in Ayurveda?
It allows for accurate assumptions about physical and mental health ## Footnote This recognition helps identify beneficial and detrimental aspects of diet and lifestyle.
115
What does a Vata constitution primarily consist of?
Air and ether ## Footnote This constitution is characterized by specific attributes.
116
List the attributes of a Vata constitution.
* Cold * Dry * Light * Subtle * Mobile * Sharp * Rough * Clear ## Footnote These attributes influence physical and mental characteristics.
117
What physical traits are associated with a Vata constitution?
Thin frame, unsymmetrical appearance, prominent joints ## Footnote Individuals may also have difficulty holding onto weight.
118
What mental and emotional characteristics are common in Vata constitutions?
Quick, adaptable, indecisive, anxiety, nervousness, insomnia ## Footnote These traits can lead to various health risks.
119
What health risks are associated with an aggravated Vata constitution?
* Gas * Spasm * Stiffness * Constipation * Nervous disorders * Tremors * Dry skin * Weakness * Debility ## Footnote These risks highlight the importance of balancing Vata.
120
What dietary recommendations are suggested for Vata constitutions?
Warm, hydrating, nourishing mildly spiced soups, stews, broths, herbal teas ## Footnote Such foods help mitigate the effects of Vata.
121
What does a Pitta constitution primarily consist of?
Fire and water ## Footnote This constitution has distinct attributes and characteristics.
122
List the attributes of a Pitta constitution.
* Hot * Oily/wet * Light * Subtle * Flowing * Sharp * Soft * Smooth * Clear ## Footnote These attributes influence both physical traits and personality.
123
What physical traits are associated with a Pitta constitution?
Medium frame, developed muscles, good circulation, red/flushed skin ## Footnote Individuals may also experience early greying or baldness.
124
What mental and emotional characteristics are common in Pitta constitutions?
Intelligent, creative, goal-driven, irritable, perfectionist, competitive ## Footnote These traits can lead to specific health risks.
125
What health risks are associated with an aggravated Pitta constitution?
* Stress * Inflammation * Infection * High blood pressure * Diarrhoea * Fever * Ulcers * Anger issues ## Footnote Understanding these risks can guide treatment.
126
What dietary recommendations are suggested for Pitta constitutions?
Cool, raw vegetables, cool water, fresh fruit, smoothies, fasting, detoxification ## Footnote These foods help balance Pitta energy.
127
What does a Kapha constitution primarily consist of?
Earth and water ## Footnote This constitution is characterized by specific attributes.
128
List the attributes of a Kapha constitution.
* Cool * Wet * Heavy * Gross * Dense * Static * Dull * Soft * Smooth * Cloudy ## Footnote These attributes influence both physical traits and personality.
129
What physical traits are associated with a Kapha constitution?
Large, stocky frame, well-developed physique, pale moist skin ## Footnote Individuals may also have thick hair and rounded facial features.
130
What mental and emotional characteristics are common in Kapha constitutions?
Steady, calm, contented, excellent memory, slow thought processes ## Footnote These traits can lead to specific health risks.
131
What health risks are associated with an aggravated Kapha constitution?
* Weight gain * Fluid retention * Laziness * Mucus congestion * Lethargy * Depression ## Footnote Awareness of these risks is important for managing health.
132
What dietary recommendations are suggested for Kapha constitutions?
Lighter meals, hot spices (e.g., black pepper, ginger), vigorous exercise ## Footnote These recommendations help counteract Kapha's heavier qualities.
133
How can one discover their constitution in Ayurveda?
By completing a constitution analysis quiz provided in learning materials ## Footnote This quiz helps identify dominant traits and guide therapeutic strategies.
134
What should you do at the end of the constitution analysis quiz?
Add up the number of ticks for each column ## Footnote This will indicate your dominant constitution, which can guide therapeutic focus.
135
True or False: Most people have a single, clear constitution.
False ## Footnote Many individuals have a mixed constitution, with one often dominating.
136
What are the three Doshas in Ayurvedic medicine?
Vata, Pitta, Kapha ## Footnote These are the fundamental energies that govern physiological and psychological processes in the body.
137
What natural cycles do the Doshas build up and subside with?
Daily cycle, Seasonal cycle, Life cycle ## Footnote Each cycle influences the dominance of the Doshas and their associated qualities.
138
What defines the daily cycle in Ayurveda?
The rising and falling sun ## Footnote This cycle influences the energetic qualities of Kapha, Pitta, and Vata at different times of the day.
139
During which time of day does Kapha dominate?
Night time, morning ## Footnote Associated signs include lethargy, mucus production, and sleepiness.
140
What are the signs of Pitta dominance during the day?
Heat, activity, energy; signs include stress and irritability ## Footnote Pitta is predominant during midday and midnight.
141
When does Vata energy dominate in the daily cycle?
Dawn, late afternoon, dusk ## Footnote Characteristic signs include nervousness and anxiety.
142
What is the primary quality of Kapha during the seasonal cycle?
Coldness, moisture ## Footnote This is particularly noted in winter and early spring.
143
What signs are associated with Pitta during summer?
Irritability, inflammation ## Footnote Pitta dominates in late spring and summer.
144
What signs indicate Vata dominance in autumn?
Dry skin, stiff joints ## Footnote Autumn is characterized by dryness and wind.
145
In which life stage does Kapha dominate?
Childhood ## Footnote Associated signs include mucus, allergies, and tears.
146
What are the signs of Pitta dominance during puberty to midlife?
Inflammation, stress ## Footnote Pitta represents energy and activity during this life stage.
147
What characterizes Vata dominance in older years?
Dryness, wisdom; signs include wrinkles and less energy ## Footnote Vata reflects the transition into senior years.
148
What should Kapha constitutions do to avoid aggravation?
Protect themselves from excess cold and dampness ## Footnote This is particularly important at night, in the morning, during winter, and in childhood.
149
What should Pitta constitutions protect themselves from?
Excess heat ## Footnote This applies during noon, midnight, summer, and from puberty through adulthood.
150
What do Vata constitutions need to protect themselves from?
Excess cold, wind, and dryness ## Footnote This is crucial at dawn, dusk, during autumn, and in senior years.
151
What is 'Prakriti'?
The constitution we are born with ## Footnote It establishes our basic style of functioning and character.
152
How can one identify their Prakriti?
By observing how we were as small children ## Footnote Different childhood temperaments can indicate different Dosha constitutions.
153
What characterizes a Vata child?
Shy, underweight ## Footnote Vata children may display anxiety and nervousness.
154
What characterizes a Pitta child?
Angry, inflamed ## Footnote Pitta children may exhibit high energy and irritability.
155
What characterizes a Kapha child?
Calm, chubby ## Footnote Kapha children tend to be more stable and relaxed.
156
What does 'Vikriti' refer to?
The state that covers our constitution ## Footnote It is influenced by diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
157
What can cause a Kapha constitution to develop Pitta problems?
High stress, spicy diet, hot climate ## Footnote These factors can obscure the original constitution.
158
What can lead a Pitta constitution to develop Vata problems?
Insecure job, vegan diet, cold, windy climate ## Footnote Environmental stressors can affect the balance of Doshas.
159
What leads to disease according to Ayurveda?
Wrong lifestyle, dietary and environmental choices ## Footnote Susceptibility due to constitution plays a role in disease development.
160
What does energetics educate us about?
Factors that cause problems and must be avoided ## Footnote It also indicates what choices can restore balance.
161
What are the qualities to focus on for balancing Vata?
Warm, moist, heavy, and smooth qualities ## Footnote These qualities apply to foods, herbs, lifestyles, and environmental influences.
162
List some dietary recommendations to balance Vata.
* Warm food * Soups * Stews * Root vegetables * Whole grains * Herbal teas * Juicy fruits
163
What lifestyle practices can help balance Vata?
* Slow * Regular * Steady life * Relaxation * Being still * Warm baths * Oiling/moisturizing
164
What environmental conditions are recommended for balancing Vata?
* Warm environments * Warm humid climates * Spring and early summer
165
What types of herbs are beneficial for balancing Vata?
* Warm spices * Demulcent herbs (e.g., flaxseeds, liquorice) * Nervine herbs (e.g., chamomile)
166
What qualities should be avoided to prevent Vata aggravation?
Cold, dry, light, mobile, and rough qualities ## Footnote These qualities also apply to foods, herbs, lifestyles, and environmental influences.
167
List some practices to avoid aggravating Vata.
* Cold windy weather * Too much travel * Hectic schedule * Dry foods * Astringent herbs
168
What is crucial for maintaining healthy function of Vata organs?
Keeping warm and hydrated at Vata times ## Footnote Vata times include dawn, dusk, autumn, and senior years.
169
What qualities should be focused on to balance Pitta?
Cool, slow, dull, heavy qualities ## Footnote These qualities apply to foods, herbs, lifestyles, and environmental influences.
170
List some dietary recommendations to balance Pitta.
* Cold raw food * Cool water * Fruits and vegetables * Smoothies * Salads
171
What lifestyle practices can help balance Pitta?
* Slow * Calm * Non-competitive sports * Relaxation * Cool showers
172
What environmental conditions are recommended for balancing Pitta?
* Cool environments * Fresh air * Winter season
173
What types of herbs are beneficial for balancing Pitta?
* Cold bitter herbs * Detoxifying herbs * Cooling nervines (e.g., skullcap, vervain)
174
What qualities should be avoided to prevent Pitta aggravation?
Hot, sharp, intense, and oily qualities ## Footnote These qualities also apply to foods, herbs, lifestyles, and environmental influences.
175
List some practices to avoid aggravating Pitta.
* Hot humid weather * Competitive situations * Arguments * Spices * Sour foods * Fried foods * Stimulants
176
What is crucial for maintaining healthy function of Pitta organs?
Keeping cool and calm at Pitta times ## Footnote Pitta times include noon, midnight, summer, and middle age.
177
What qualities should be focused on to balance Kapha?
Hot, dry, light, sharp qualities ## Footnote These qualities apply to foods, herbs, lifestyles, and environmental influences.
178
List some dietary recommendations to balance Kapha.
* Hot spicy foods * Light dry curries * Hot teas * Stimulants in small amounts * Fasting
179
What lifestyle practices can help balance Kapha?
* Vigorous exercise * Competitive sports * Excitement * Saunas * Stimulation
180
What environmental conditions are recommended for balancing Kapha?
* Warm dry environments * Summer season
181
What types of herbs are beneficial for balancing Kapha?
* Hot dry spices (e.g., dry ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, chili)
182
What qualities should be avoided to prevent Kapha aggravation?
Cold, damp, heavy, and dull qualities ## Footnote These qualities also apply to foods, herbs, lifestyles, and environmental influences.
183
List some practices to avoid aggravating Kapha.
* Cold damp weather * Sedentary life * Cold food * Dairy * Gluten * Processed food * Overeating
184
What is crucial for maintaining healthy function of Kapha organs?
Keeping warm and dry at Kapha times ## Footnote Kapha times include morning, winter/spring, and childhood.
185
What effect does dampness plus heat have on Kapha?
Liquifies Kapha, causing negative effects to manifest
186
SQ: What advice would help maintain balance during the autumn and through older age?
187
SQ: What advice would help maintain balance during the summer months and through middle age?
188
SQ: What advice would help maintain balance during the winter and through childhood years?
189
SQ: Name TWO herbs and foods for Vata constitutions to avoid, plus TWO herbs and foods to increase.
190
SQ: Name TWO herbs and foods for Pitta constitutions to avoid, plus TWO herbs and foods to increase.
191
SQ: Name TWO herbs and foods for Kapha constitutions to avoid, plus TWO herbs and foods to increase.
192
What is Agni?
Agni is ‘the power to digest, transform, absorb, assimilate’ ## Footnote It applies to the breakdown and assimilation of food, as well as the digestion of sense perceptions, thoughts, and experiences.
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What is the most important type of Agni?
Jatharagni — the digestive fire ## Footnote It is crucial for digestion and overall metabolic functions.
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What influences the power of Agni?
Vata, Pitta, and Kapha ## Footnote These doshas increase or decrease Agni's power and keep it in balance.
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What happens when Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are balanced?
Agni is balanced ## Footnote This leads to proper digestion and assimilation.
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What are symptoms of excess Vata affecting Agni?
* Erratic appetite * Bloating * Gas * Constipation * Cramps * Food anxiety * Food intolerances ## Footnote Excess Vata makes the digestive fire 'variable' and inconsistent.
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How can excess Vata be balanced?
With warm spices in moist form ## Footnote Examples include slices of fresh ginger, ginger tea, mildly spiced soups, and stews.
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What are symptoms of excess Pitta affecting Agni?
* Burning sensations * Acid reflux * Gastritis * Ulcers * Diarrhoea * Irritability * Migraines ## Footnote Excess Pitta makes digestive fire too 'hot' and 'acidic'.
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How can excess Pitta be balanced?
With cooling moistening herbs ## Footnote Examples include aloe vera gel, marshmallow, flaxseeds, cool water, and raw fruits.
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What are symptoms of excess Kapha affecting Agni?
* Low energy * Slow food transit * Constant but low level of hunger * Slow metabolism * Weight gain * Poor circulation * Mucus ## Footnote Excess Kapha makes digestive fire slow and inefficient.
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How can excess Kapha be balanced?
With hot dry spices ## Footnote Examples include dry ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and cloves.
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What indicates balanced Agni?
* Strong appetite * Clean digestion * No pain, spasm, gas * Regular formed bowel motion * Good energy levels * Clear senses ## Footnote Balanced doshas lead to balanced digestive fire.
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What spices are recommended for Pitta constitution?
* Coriander * Fennel * Cumin ## Footnote These spices help maintain healthy digestive fire.
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What are specific rules for healthy digestive fire?
* Don’t eat unless hungry * Take correct spice blends before meals * Don’t overeat * Eat slowly and chew well ## Footnote Additional rules include leaving 3-4 hours between meals and avoiding snacking.
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What types of food encourage strong Agni?
* Light * Warm * High-quality foods ## Footnote Aromatic spices are also essential for good nutrition and energy.
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What is Ama in Ayurveda?
Ama is undigested food that cannot be absorbed, assimilated, or eliminated ## Footnote It is considered the root cause of disease.
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What are signs of Ama?
* Thick tongue coating * Poor digestion * Loss of taste and appetite * Joint and muscle pains * Fatigue ## Footnote Other signs include constipation and foul-smelling excretions.
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How can Ama be removed?
* Stimulating digestive fire * Balancing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha ## Footnote Strong digestive fire helps prevent and 'burn off' Ama.
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What can stimulate the removal of Ama from the body?
* Bitter detoxifying herbs * Fasting ## Footnote Hot foods and applications can also help 'melt' Ama for easier removal.
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What is Mental Ama?
Mental Ama arises from unprocessed experiences leading to confusion and emotional distress ## Footnote It can lead to physical diseases if not resolved.
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SQ: How would you support variable Agni in a Vata constitution?
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SQ: How would you support excessive Agni in a Pitta constitution?
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SQ: Name FOUR spices that increase Agni
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SQ: Describe FIVE rules of eating to support strong Agni
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SQ: What types of food strengthen Agni, and what types of food weaken Agni?
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SQ: What is the link between Agni and Ama?
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SQ: Name FOUR signs that indicate the presence of Ama
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SQ: Discuss TWO herbal and TWO dietary strategies for removing Ama from the system

Herbal Medicine (11 decks)

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