Kapha dosha

Kapha dosha

Kapha is a union of the qualities and functions of the Earth and Water elements. Kapha represents the Energy of Lubrication and Structure in Ayurveda. Kapha comprises all our cells, tissues and organs. Kapha molecules act as glue that hold the body together and provides it the basis for physical structure. Water is the main constituent of kapha and provides biological strength and natural tissue resistance in the body.

Properties of Kapha dosha-

Kapha is heavy, slow, cool, oily, liquid, hard, smooth, dense, soft, static, viscous, and cloudy.

The main reservoirs or pre eminent locations of the kapha dosha are –

Main location – Chest

Main dhatu or location in tissue – All dhatus and mala (except asthi, rakta and sweat)

Other locations – Neck, Head, Joints, Stomach, body fluids, Fats, Nose and tongue.

.Functions of Kapha
Kapha provide body resistance, lubricates the joints, moisture the skin, heals wounds; fills the spaces in the body; gives biological strength, vigor and stability; supports memory retention; gives energy to the heart and lungs and maintains immunity. Psychologically, it is responsible for the emotions of attachment, greed, and long-standing envy, calmness, forgiveness, and love.

Indication of balanced kapha
In a balanced state kapha individual shows terrific endurance and physical strength with slow and steady speech and a calm, loving and forgiving attitude.

Problem caused by imbalanced kapha

But excess of Kapha can lead to lethargy, weight gain, congestion and allergies along with envy, greedy and possessive behavior.
Kapha can be aggravated by, sleeping during the daytime, eating excessive sweet foods, overeating, and eating and drinking foods and beverages with too much salt and water (especially in the springtime).

KAPHA is further understood through the actions of its 5 sub-divisions:

1.   Avalambaka: The nourishing aspect of Kapha that resides in the lungs and heart. It is the great protector and said to be the most important of the Kapha sub-divisions. Although its home is in the lungs and heart, it is circulated through the whole body, bringing nourishment to all the organs and tissues.

2.   Kledaka: The protective aspect of Kapha that resides in the stomach and digestive tract, kledaka lubricates and cools – preventing the buildup of heat and acids from the primary Pitta digestive functions. Kledaka plays a role in the absorption and assimilation of nutrients and is therefore responsible for the nourishment of the tissues.

3.   Bodhaka: Residing in the mouth, Bodhaka functions through the saliva and plays a role in the initial stages of digestion. Bodhaka also allows for the perception of the tastes and protects the gums and the tongue.

4.   Tarpaka: This is the mental aspect of Kapha – the cerebrospinal fluid that nourishes the brain cells and aids in the cultivation of peace, contentment and tranquility. Tarpaka plays a role in storing and recovering all sensory experiences. When deficient, we may suffer from memory loss, insomnia, lack of contentment and eventually senility.

Sleshaka: It is the lubricating sub-dosha of Kapha that manifests as synovial fluid and protects the joints. All joint, ligament and cartilage problems have a sleshaka component to them.