Doshas and Constitution Flashcards

Which subdosha of Vata is responsible for the downward movement of urine, feces, flatus, and the fetus during delivery?

Answer: Apana Vata

Apana Vata governs all downward and outward movements in the lower body — including elimination of feces, urine, menstrual blood, and the fetus during childbirth.

The subdosha of Pitta that governs digestion and metabolism in the small intestine is called:

Answer: Pachaka Pitta

Pachaka Pitta is located in the small intestine and stomach and is responsible for digesting food, separating nutrients from waste, and supporting all other Pitta subdoshas.

Which Kapha subdosha is located in the joints and provides lubrication to maintain smooth movement?

Answer: Shleshaka Kapha

Shleshaka Kapha is located in all joints and provides lubrication, maintaining smooth articulation and preventing wear; its deficiency leads to joint dryness and pain.

A person with predominantly Pitta Prakriti would typically exhibit which physical characteristics?

Answer: Medium build, reddish complexion, strong digestion, warm body temperature

Pitta types typically have a medium build, reddish or copper complexion, strong digestion, warm body temperature, and tendency toward inflammation.

According to Ayurveda, what is the primary seat (main location) of Kapha dosha in the body?

Answer: Chest and stomach

The chest and stomach are considered the primary seat of Kapha dosha; this is why excess Kapha often manifests as mucus accumulation in the lungs and slowness of digestion.

What is the Ayurvedic term for the seven body tissues that are sequentially nourished and produced through the digestive process?

Answer: Dhatus

Dhatus are the seven body tissues — Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (marrow), and Shukra (reproductive tissue) — nourished sequentially from digested food.