09_Ayurveda 3 Flashcards
Treatment Strategies for Vata, Pitta and Kapha
1
Q
What is the unifying cause of pathology in Ayurveda?
A
Aggravation of Vata, Pitta, or Kapha
This concept is referred to as the ‘unity of disease.’
2
Q
What is the first step in the basic order of treatment in Ayurveda?
A
Identify imbalance based on the qualities
This involves determining whether Vata, Pitta, Kapha, or a combination is imbalanced.
3
Q
What should be done after identifying the cause of imbalance?
A
Change diet and lifestyle to restore and maintain energetic balance
This may include using herbs and other therapeutic protocols.
4
Q
What is meant by balancing Agni?
A
Balancing digestive fire to prevent toxicity
Weak digestive fire leads to the accumulation of Ama.
5
Q
What is Ama in Ayurveda?
A
Undigested food toxins
Often linked to low Agni and can be a cause of various pathologies.
6
Q
What does an anti-Ama diet emphasize?
A
Increase bitter herbs, pungent spices, and leafy greens; eliminate sweet fruits and dairy
This diet is aimed at fast-tracking detoxification.
7
Q
What role does Karma play in Ayurveda?
A
It reflects the law of cause and effect, linking our choices to health outcomes
Healthy choices lead to vitality, while poor choices can lead to disease.
8
Q
True or False: In Ayurveda, being diseased or healthy is entirely out of our control.
A
False
It is often considered a choice influenced by our actions and decisions.
9
Q
What is Prajnaparadha?
A
Crime against wisdom
Ignoring good sense in lifestyle choices can lead to poor health.
10
Q
What diagnostic tools are used to identify energetic imbalance?
A
Visual assessment, detailed questioning, tongue and pulse diagnostics
These tools help reveal the precise energetic state.
11
Q
Fill in the blank: The presentation of a patient often shows a mixture of _______.
A
Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
12
Q
What dietary changes are recommended for cold damp Kapha problems?
A
Remove mucous-producing dairy and replace with warm, dry, spicy foods
This helps to balance the aggravated Kapha.
13
Q
List some herbs that can help balance Agni for Pitta.
A
- Coriander
- Fennel
- Cumin
14
Q
What is recommended for supporting Agni through good eating hygiene?
A
Don’t eat unless hungry, eat slowly, and avoid cold water at meals
These practices help maintain a strong digestive fire.
15
Q
What is a key factor in removing Ama from the body?
A
Balancing Doshas and strengthening digestive fire
Improving liver and bowel elimination is also important.
16
Q
What should be increased in an anti-Ama diet?
A
- Bitter herbs
- Pungent spices
- Leafy greens
- Sour fruits
17
Q
What constitutes a healthy balance in lifestyle choices according to Ayurveda?
A
85% perfect to 15% imperfect
This allows for enjoyment of life while maintaining health.
18
Q
What should be avoided to support strong digestive fire?
A
Eating when stressed or not hungry
This is considered an enemy of strong Agni.
19
Q
What are the Six Tastes in Ayurveda?
A
Sweet, Sour, Salty, Pungent, Bitter, Astringent
Each taste has specific properties and effects on the Doshas.
20
Q
What is the effect of too much or too little of any taste?
A
Causes aggravation of either Vata, Pitta, or Kapha.
21
Q
Why do we need all the tastes in our diet?
A
For balance and health, with particular emphasis on certain tastes depending on constitution and present state of imbalance.
22
Q
What is the sweet taste characterized by?
A
Moist, cool, and heavy.
23
Q
What does the sweet taste increase and reduce?
A
Increases Kapha (K+), reduces Vata and Pitta (VP-).
24
Q
What are the effects of the sweet taste?
A
- Tonic
- Nourishing
- Immune-supporting
- Anti-inflammatory
- Supports mucous membranes, skin healing, mucous expectoration, bowel elimination
- Brings contentment.
25
What is a consequence of excess sweet taste?
Obesity, heaviness, loss of appetite, diabetes, increased mucus secretions (Kapha problems).
26
Which foods are considered sweet?
* Liquorice
* Marshmallow
* Root vegetables
* Grains.
27
What is the sour taste characterized by?
Moist, hot, and light.
28
What does the sour taste increase and reduce?
Increases Pitta and Kapha (PK+), reduces Vata (V-).
29
What are the effects of the sour taste?
* Stimulates digestion (Agni)
* Promotes circulation
* Relieves thirst
* Strengthens and moistens the body
* Increases bile flow and fat digestion
* Brings alertness.
30
What is a consequence of excess sour taste?
Acidity, ulcers, fevers, aggravation of inflammatory skin diseases, envy (Pitta problems).
31
Which foods are considered sour?
* Citrus fruit
* Fermented foods
* Apple cider vinegar.
32
What is the salty taste characterized by?
Moist, hot, and heavy.
33
What does the salty taste increase and reduce?
Increases Pitta and Kapha (PK+), reduces Vata (V-).
34
What are the effects of the salty taste?
* Stimulates digestion (Agni)
* Mildly laxative
* Softens tumours and phlegm
* Grounds the nerves
* Reduces stiffness
* Brings strength and stability.
35
What is a consequence of excess salty taste?
Thirst, skin diseases, burning sensations, hypertension, irritability (Pitta problems), fluid retention (Kapha problem).
36
Which foods are considered salty?
* Himalayan Salt
* Rock salt
* Garlic
* Seaweeds
* Celery seed.
37
What is the pungent taste characterized by?
Dry, hot, and light.
38
What does the pungent taste increase and reduce?
Increases Pitta and Vata (PV+), reduces Kapha (K-).
39
What are the effects of the pungent taste?
* Stimulates digestion (best taste for Agni)
* Improves circulation
* Invigorates the system
* Relieves nerve pain and muscle tension
* Clears mucus, dampness, and stagnation
* Promotes sweating.
40
What is a consequence of excess pungent taste?
Emaciation, burning sensations, fever, thirst, skin diseases, anger, and frustration (Pitta problems).
41
Which foods are considered pungent?
* Ginger
* Black pepper
* Chilli
* Cloves
* Cumin.
42
What is the bitter taste characterized by?
Dry, cool, and light.
43
What does the bitter taste increase and reduce?
Increases Vata (V+), reduces Pitta and Kapha.
44
What are the effects of the bitter taste?
* Anti-inflammatory
* Detoxifying
* Antibacterial
* Strengthens digestion (in small amounts)
* Clears fluid retention
* Lowers blood sugar
* Supports liver function and bile production
* Helps digest fat.
45
What is a consequence of excess bitter taste?
Coldness, weakness, disorientation, anaemia, nervous problems, stiffness, muscle spasm, anxiety, fear (Vata problems).
46
Which foods are considered bitter?
* Gentian
* Chicory
* Many leafy greens.
47
What is the astringent taste characterized by?
Dry, cool, and heavy.
48
What does the astringent taste increase and reduce?
Increases Vata (V+), reduces Pitta and Kapha (PK-).
49
What are the effects of the astringent taste?
* Reduces bleeding
* Diarrhoea
* Sweating
* Dries mucus
* Promotes healing of skin and mucous membranes
* Contracts tissues
* Raises prolapsed organs
* Brings mental firmness.
50
What is a consequence of excess astringent taste?
Dries tissues, causes constipation, cramps, bloating, emaciation, thirst, and nervous disorders as it obstructs flow of prana / Vital Force (Vata problems).
51
Which foods are considered astringent?
* Green tea
* Witch hazel
* Unripe bananas.
52
What elements compose Vata?
Air and ether
## Footnote
Vata is characterized by qualities such as cold, dry, rough, and light.
53
What are the causes of Vata aggravation?
Factors with cold, dry, light, rough qualities
## Footnote
This includes foods, lifestyles, mental habits, or environmental influences.
54
Name three types of foods to avoid for Vata aggravation.
* Cold foods
* Dry foods
* Light meals
## Footnote
Examples include crunchy raw food, unsoaked nuts, and undercooked grains.
55
Which types of herbs and foods should be reduced to avoid aggravating Vata?
* Bitter
* Pungent
* Astringent
## Footnote
These have qualities that aggravate Vata.
56
What lifestyle patterns should be avoided to prevent Vata aggravation?
* Irregular eating patterns
* Excessive movement
* Unpredictable lifestyle
## Footnote
A stable routine helps maintain Vata balance.
57
What feelings may arise from Vata aggravation?
* Fear
* Anxiety
* Ungroundedness
## Footnote
These emotional states are associated with Vata disturbances.
58
What are classic signs of Vata aggravation related to time of day?
Waking in the early hours and afternoon exhaustion
## Footnote
This occurs during the hours of 2–6 am and 2–6 pm.
59
List some signs of excess Vata in the body.
* Piercing pains
* Muscle spasms
* Cold hands and feet
## Footnote
These symptoms reflect the dry, cold, light qualities of aggravated Vata.
60
What digestive symptoms indicate Vata aggravation?
* Variable appetite
* Difficulty swallowing
* Gas and constipation
## Footnote
These symptoms often manifest first in the colon.
61
Which types of foods can help lubricate the bowel?
* Mucilaginous foods (e.g., chia, linseeds)
* Carminatives (e.g., fennel tea)
## Footnote
These foods aid in good elimination and relaxation of gastrointestinal spasm.
62
What are some nervous function symptoms associated with excess Vata?
* Excitability
* Inability to focus
* Insomnia
## Footnote
These reflect the light, irregular, and rapid qualities of aggravated Vata.
63
What skin symptoms indicate Vata aggravation?
* Dry, flaky skin
* Cracked fingernails
* Weight loss
## Footnote
These symptoms highlight the impact of excess Vata on skin and overall health.
64
What diagnostic signs can be observed in the tongue of a person with Vata aggravation?
* Dry, cracked tongue
* Grey coating
* Irregular shape
## Footnote
These signs are indicative of the dry and rough characteristics of excess Vata.
65
How can aggravated Vata be balanced through diet?
* Warm, cooked foods
* Mildly spiced dishes
* Mucilaginous foods
## Footnote
These choices help counteract the aggravating qualities of Vata.
66
Which tastes should be increased to balance Vata?
* Sweet
* Sour
* Salty
## Footnote
These tastes provide heavy, warm, and moistening qualities.
67
What lifestyle changes can help balance aggravated Vata?
* Predictable habits
* Regular mealtimes
* Gentle exercise
## Footnote
A calm and stable lifestyle is essential for Vata balance.
68
What should be prioritized during high Vata times of the day and year?
* Warm, moist foods
* Security and comfort
## Footnote
This includes wrapping up warm and avoiding excess activity during Vata peaks.
69
List some additional tips to balance excess aggravated Vata.
* Go to bed early
* Start the day with warm fluids
* Self-massage with oil
## Footnote
These practices promote relaxation and hydration.
70
What therapeutic focus is suggested for treating Vata aggravation?
* Treat constipation with moistening herbs
* Calm nervousness with relaxants
## Footnote
Addressing the colon is crucial as Vata aggravates first in this area.
71
SQ: Suggest FIVE lifestyle tips for a patient with Vata aggravation
72
SQ: What tastes aggravate Vata? Name TWO foods or herbs to avoid for each taste
73
SQ: What tastes balance Vata? Name TWO foods or herbs to increase for each taste
74
SQ: Why is it essential to treat the nerves in Vata aggravation? Name THREE suitable herbal relaxants.
75
SQ: Suggest a dietary and herbal protocol for
addressing Vata aggravation at its root
76
SQ: Design a basic meal plan to balance Vata during autumn season.
77
What elements compose Pitta?
Fire and water elements
## Footnote
Pitta has hot, moist/oily, intense, sharp, and penetrating qualities.
78
What are common causes of Pitta aggravation?
Factors with hot, moist, sharp qualities including:
* Foods
* Lifestyles
* Mental habits
* Environmental influences
79
List three types of foods to avoid for Pitta aggravation.
* Hot spices
* Oily/fried foods
* Red meat
80
Fill in the blank: Pungent, sour, and salty foods have ______ qualities that aggravate Pitta.
hot, moist, intense
81
What lifestyle factors should be avoided to prevent Pitta aggravation?
* Overwork
* Over-commitment
* Competitive environments
* Perfectionism
82
True or False: Pitta can be aggravated by calm and relaxing environments.
False
83
What are some signs of Pitta aggravation?
* Burning pains
* Sweating
* Fever
* Infections
* Red inflamed joints
84
What digestive issues are associated with aggravated Pitta?
* Mouth ulcers
* Acid reflux
* Diarrhea
* Inflammatory bowel disease
85
Which emotions are intensified during Pitta aggravation?
* Anger
* Irritability
* Frustration
86
What are diagnostic signs of Pitta aggravation on the tongue?
* Red/pink color
* Long pointed shape
* Yellow/green coating
87
How does excess Pitta affect tissues?
* Tissues become hot, red, inflamed, infected
* Rashes and infections may occur
88
Fill in the blank: Pitta is balanced by foods and influences with cool, dry, ______ qualities.
dull
89
List three types of foods that can help balance Pitta.
* Cool leafy greens
* Whole grains
* Mucilaginous foods
90
What is an ideal drink to start the day for balancing Pitta?
Green smoothie or lukewarm water with aloe vera gel
91
What should be avoided during high Pitta times of the day?
* Heating activities
* Excessive exertion
92
True or False: Cold baths and swimming can help balance Pitta.
True
93
What are effective treatments for GIT inflammation associated with Pitta?
* Mucilage like aloe gel
* Flaxseeds
* Marshmallow
94
What kind of herbs support liver detoxification for balancing Pitta?
* Bitter leafy greens
* Plentiful hydration
95
SQ: Suggest FIVE lifestyle tips for a patient with Pitta aggravation
96
SQ: What tastes aggravate Pitta? Name TWO foods or herbs to avoid for each taste
97
SQ: What tastes balance Pitta? Name TWO
foods or herbs to increase for each taste
98
SQ: Why is it essential to treat the GIT in Pitta
aggravation? Name THREE suitable foods / herbs
99
SQ: Suggest a dietary and herbal protocol for
addressing Pitta aggravation at its root.
100
SQ: Design a basic meal plan to balance Pitta during
the summer season
101
What elements compose Kapha?
Water and earth elements
## Footnote
Kapha is characterized by qualities such as cool, moist, heavy, and dull.
102
What are common causes of Kapha aggravation?
Factors with cool, moist, heavy qualities
## Footnote
This includes certain foods, lifestyle choices, mental habits, and environmental influences.
103
Name three types of foods to avoid during Kapha aggravation.
* Cold foods
* Damp foods
* Sweet foods
## Footnote
Specific examples include mucous-producing dairy, gluten, sugar, and sweet watery fruits like melon.
104
Which heavy meals are particularly aggravating for Kapha?
Heavy, dense meals and over-eating
## Footnote
These contribute to the aggravation of Kapha qualities.
105
What types of flavors should be reduced to manage Kapha aggravation?
* Sweet
* Sour
* Salty
## Footnote
These flavors have moist qualities that can worsen Kapha.
106
What lifestyle habits should be avoided to prevent Kapha aggravation?
* Sedentary lifestyle
* Daytime sleeping
* Lack of exercise
## Footnote
Engaging in challenging activities is crucial for balancing Kapha.
107
What mental states can contribute to Kapha aggravation?
* Possessiveness
* Greed
## Footnote
Negative thoughts and emotions can lead to dampness in Kapha.
108
During which seasons is Kapha particularly aggravated?
Damp seasons, winter, and early spring
## Footnote
These conditions share qualities similar to Kapha.
109
What are some signs of Kapha aggravation?
* Mucus congestion
* Fluid retention
* Slow metabolism
* Excessive sleeping
## Footnote
These symptoms indicate problems related to cold, damp, heavy, and dull qualities.
110
How does aggravated Kapha affect the respiratory system?
* Phlegm
* Congestion
* Runny nose
## Footnote
Cold and damp qualities can lead to respiratory issues.
111
What skin conditions are associated with aggravated Kapha?
* Cold, clammy skin
* Weeping skin lesions
* Fungal infections
## Footnote
These conditions reflect the damp and heavy characteristics of aggravated Kapha.
112
What are the diagnostic signs of excess Kapha?
* Thick, pale tongue
* White coating on tongue
* Slow, broad pulse
## Footnote
These signs indicate a buildup of Kapha in the body.
113
How does excess Kapha affect body tissues?
* Tissues become excessive
* Lymphatic congestion
* Swollen joints
## Footnote
Kapha can lead to various health issues, including obesity and diabetes.
114
What types of foods balance Kapha?
* Light foods
* Dry foods
* Spicy foods
## Footnote
Foods that have warm and intense qualities help to balance Kapha.
115
What type of exercise is recommended for balancing Kapha?
Energetic, competitive cardiovascular exercise
## Footnote
Engaging in vigorous activities is essential to counter Kapha's heavy qualities.
116
What are some tips for maintaining balance during high Kapha times?
* Hot, dry, spicy foods in winter
* Stay active in the morning and evening
* Follow a mucous-free diet
## Footnote
These practices help counteract the natural tendencies of Kapha.
117
What should be included in a therapeutic focus for Kapha?
* Respiratory decongestants
* Digestive stimulants
* Diuretics
## Footnote
Using these can help manage Kapha issues effectively.
118
SQ: Suggest FIVE lifestyle tips for a patient with Kapha aggravation
119
SQ: What tastes aggravate Kapha? Name TWO
foods or herbs to avoid for each taste
120
SQ: What tastes balance Kapha? Name TWO
foods or herbs to increase for each taste.
121
SQ: Why is it essential to treat the lungs in Kapha aggravation? Name THREE suitable foods / herbs.
122
SQ: Suggest a dietary and herbal protocol for
addressing Kapha aggravation at its root
123
SQ: Design a basic meal plan to balance Kapha during the late winter / spring season
