The Six Tastes | Ayurveda

Sweet

Doshas

Decreases Vata

Decreases Pitta

Increases Kapha

Properties

Increases Ojas

Improves complexion, hair, skin & nails

In Excess

Causes excess fat & diabetes

Indigestion

Salty

Doshas

Decreases Vata

Increases Pitta

Increases Kapha

Properties

Improves digestion

Produces sweat & clears the pores

In excess, can cause laceration of the tissues

In Excess

Increases likelihood of balding, gray hair & wrinkles

Increases thirst and dehydration

Weakens the body

Sour

Doshas

Decreases Vata

Increases Pitta

Increases Kapha

Properties

Maintains body acidity

Aids in digestion and release of gas

Heart health

Increases alertness

Awakens the senses

In Excess

Loss of strength

Irriation

Pungent

Doshas

Increases Vata in excess

Increases Pitta

Decreases Kapha

Properties

Breaks up blockages, clears channels

Decreases allergic reactions and skin issues

Opens the mind

In Excess

Increases thirst

Decreases reproductive fluids

Bitter

Doshas

Increases Vata

Decreases Pitta

Decreases Kapha

Properties

Cleansing for the body

Decrease fever, nausea

Good for digestion

Beneficial for the mind and increasing intelligence

Cleansing for the emotions

In Excess

Depletes the body

Astringent

Doshas

Increases Vata

Decreases Pitta

Decreases Kapha

Properties

Drying, tightening

Helps with diarrhea

Cleanses the blood & stops bleeding

In Excess

Can cause gas and constipation