Kapha

Kapha is the physiological operator that governs cohesion and structure.

Functions of kapha dosha

kapha Kapha creates, lubricates and maintains the channels through which vata and pitta function. It regulates fluid balance, lubricates joints, holds the tissues and skeleton together, provides softness and suppleness and is the basis of immunity. In the mind, kapha creates generosity, persistence, understanding and forgiveness.

Kapha's qualities

Composed of apa (liquidity) and prithivi (earth/solidity), kapha is heavy, cold, smooth, unctuous, soft, stable, slow, slimy and sweet. It is increased by influences having these same qualities. Except for being cool, it is in every other way the opposite of vata, so whatever pacifies vata, such as rich, heavy and sweet foods, will increase kapha, a relationship that creates problems from using, for example, comfort foods to pacify vata.

Kapha's location

Kapha finds its principle seat in the head and chest, and functions also in the upper stomach and the joints.

Kapha constitution

Individuals with primarily kapha constitution are built in a solid, firm way. They will usually have ample flesh on large bones. Tendons and veins are hidden. They have large, well-formed, white teeth, large eyes (like a deer) and round faces, like a moon. They will move and function in a deliberate way, slow but steady. They will be faithful and dependable, possessed of sweet dispositions, and have good memories, being slow to experience anger and fear.

Symptoms and signs of increased kapha

Since kapha is structure, increased kapha creates obstruction: excessive secretions, sinus congestion, phlegm in the chest with coughing, excessive heaviness, blockage of organs, dullness, lethargy.

Symptoms and signs of decreased kapha

Since kapha and vata are opposite, decreased kapha is similar to vata aggravation: dryness, thirst, inability to sleep, tremor, loose joints, etc.

Symptoms and signs of vitiated kapha

Obesity, coldness, lethargy, impotence, excess secretions, excessive sweetness in the body (diabetes), dullness of mind.

Factors that increase kapha

Cold, damp weather. Cold, heavy, oily foods; dairy; heavy meals; sour, salty and sweet tastes. Sedentary lifestyles, sleeping during the day, lack of mental and physical activities; pampered lifestyle.

The five types of kapha

Kledaka kapha: Located in the upper stomach, kledaka creates the gastric juices and provides the cohesion for the bolus of food. It functions like the oil in the pot of the digestive fire.

Avalambaka kapha: Located in the chest, it provides the structure for the chest wall and back, and nourishes the heart.

Bodhaka kapha: Located in the mouth, bodhaka is responsible for the perception of taste, which is the counterpart of apas (liquidity)

Tarpaka kapha: Located in the skull, brainstem and spinal column, tarpaka nourishes the nervous system including the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid

Sleshaka kapha: Located in all the bodies joints, sleshaka provides lubrication to joint surfaces.

This information on "Kapha" is in the "About Vedic Medicine" section of AyurvedaMed.com website. To return to the index page of this section, please click here.