Chapter 15

DOSHA PRADHANATA

(Predominance of Doshas)

Introduction

  • The concept of Dosha Pradhanatha refers to the predominance of each dosha—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—at different stages of life, times of day, phases of digestion, appetite levels, body constitution, and even seasonal changes.

1. Dosha Dominance by Age

  • Childhood: Kapha predominates, giving qualities of growth, stability, softness, and nourishment.
  • Young Adulthood: Pitta is dominant, characterized by strong metabolism, energy, and vitality.
  • Old Age: Vata dominates, bringing qualities of dryness, coldness, and lightness, seen in joint stiffness, dryness, and sensitivity to cold.

2. Dosha Dominance by Time of Day

  • Vata: Strongest from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., when lightness, creativity, and restlessness may increase.
  • Pitta: Peaks between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.; digestion is strongest around midday, making it an ideal time for the main meal.
  • Kapha: Most active from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., times often marked by heaviness and sluggishness, promoting rest.

3. Dosha Role in Digestion

  • Kapha Phase (Initial Phase): Begins when eating starts, aiding in softening and moistening food for two hours post-meal.
  • Pitta Phase (Middle Phase): Lasts from around two to four hours after eating, where Pitta’s heat breaks down and digests food.
  • Vata Phase (Final Phase): Four to six hours after eating, Vata governs the movement and elimination of undigested waste.

4. Dosha Influence on Appetite (Agni Types)

  • Vata: Vishama Agni – Irregular appetite; varies from intense hunger to lack of appetite.
  • Pitta: Teekshna Agni – Strong, regular appetite; hunger at consistent intervals.
  • Kapha: Manda Agni – Slow appetite; less frequent hunger due to slower metabolism.

5. Dosha and Gastrointestinal Tract (Koshta)

  • Vata GIT: Tends to be dry, often causing constipation and irregular bowel movements.
  • Pitta GIT: Generally soft, allowing smooth digestion but prone to loose stools if imbalanced.
  • Kapha GIT: Balanced flow, though can feel sluggish if Kapha is aggravated.

6. Natural Constitution (Prakruti) Strength

  • Vata Types: Generally delicate, with low endurance due to their light and dry nature.
  • Pitta Types: Medium strength; active but may overheat if overly active.
  • Kapha Types: Known for good strength, with stable and sturdy physical nature.

7. Seasonal Influence on Doshas

  • Rainy Season: Aggravates Vata due to damp, erratic weather, potentially leading to joint pain and dry skin.
  • Autumn: Increases Pitta with heat and dryness, which may cause skin issues or irritability.
  • Spring: Aggravates Kapha due to moisture and heaviness, leading to congestion, allergies, or lethargy.

Conclusion

Recognizing the influence of age, time of day, digestion phases, appetite, body strength, and seasonal changes on doshas allows us to align with natural rhythms and make lifestyle choices that support balance and well-being.