Each dosha thus shares a quality with another (although there remain slight differences in the nature of shared quality). Also, each has an inherent ability to regulate and balance itself, which comes from the opposite qualities that arise from the doshas constituent (basic) elements.

When the doshas are in balance i.e. in a state of equilibrium, we remain healthy. As Charaka, the great ayurvedic sage, explained: "Vata, pitta and kapha maintain the integrity of the living human organism in their normal state and combine so as to make the man a complete being with his indriyas (sense organs) possessed of strength, good complexion and assured of longevity."

It is only when that there is imbalance within these three doshas that disease is caused. And since it is the strongest dosha in the constitution that usually has the greatest tendency to increase, one is most susceptible to illnesses associated with an increase of the same.

THE THREE DOSHAS & THEIR BASIC QUALITIES

Table-2

Eash dosha also has a primary function in the body. Vata is the moving force, Pitta is the force of assimilation, and Kapha is the force of stability.

Vata, the most dominant of the doshas, governs bodily movement, the nervous system, and the life force. Without Vata’s mobility in the body, Pitta and Kapha would be rendered lame. Pitta governs enzymatic and hormonal activities, and is responsible for digestion, pigmentation, body temperature, hunger, thirst, and sight. Further, Pitta acts as a balancing force for Vata and Kapha.

Kapha governs the body’s structure and stability. It Imbricates joints, provides moisture to the skin, heals wounds, and regulates Vata and Pitta. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha pervade the entire body, but their primary domains are in the lower, middle, and upper body, respectively. Kapha rules the (UPPER) head, neck, thorax, chest, and upper portion of the stomach, fat tissues, and the joints. Pitta pervades the (MIDDLE) chest, umbilical area, stomach, small intestines, sweat and lymph glands, and the blood. Vata dominates the (LOWER) body, pelvic region, colon, bladder, urinary tract, thighs, legs, arms, bones, and nervous system.

Apart form its main site; each dosha has four secondary sites located in different areas of the body. Thus each dosha then has five sites considered to be its centres of operation, which include the various outreach systems because of which the entire body functions. The doshas interact continuously with the external elements to replenish their energy within the body. Each of the three doshas’ five sites has a specific responsibility towards the maintenance of the organism.