The 7 Ayurveda types
Each human being is an individual, and human reactions to external stimulants, foods and treatments often differ as well. The most important principle in Ayurveda is the alignment of each person to his or her individual tolerance. "One man's poison is another man's medicine", is a quote from an ancient Ayurvedic source. Using the three basic energies --Vata, Pitta and Kapha -- Ayurveda categorizes seven basic types of human beings. This basic human constitutional type exists at the time of birth and is influenced by factors such as food, climate, environment and work. The Ayurvedic constitutional type is the hereditary and genetic constitution of a person which is more or less unchanged as life goes on.
The "pure"constitutional types
The Vata type: This is understood to be a basic type of person with a high percentage of Vata, but having little Pitta and Kapha. These people have a slight build, are artistic, sensitive and have a keen sense of perception.
The Pitta type: In this case the person has a high percentage of Pitta, but a low percentage of Kapha and Vata. Pitta types are technically inventive, have a high rate of digestion and metabolism, have a muscular body build, an alert mind, are extremely ambitious, passionate and are very self-assertive.
The Kapha type: This type of person has a high percentage of Kapha and at the same time low percentages of Vata and Pitta. These people have heavy, robust and stable bodies, and they are very strong, have high endurance and a good long-term memory. They tend to be dependable, patient and loveable.
The "mixed" constitutional types
The Vata-Kapha or Kapha-Vata type: This type has two contrasting basic energies, Vata and Kapha. This category of person tends to be tall and athletic. His or her hyperactivity is balanced out by the calmness of Kapha.
The Vata-Pitta or Pitta-Vata type: In this case the elements of air and fire meet together, resulting in a lot of energy. These types generally have so much energy that it is hard to stop them. They are full of enthusiasm and are quick to negotiate a good deal.
The Kapha-Pitta or. Pitta-Kapha type: People belonging to this basic consitutional type are sociable and fun-loving. Generally they are well balanced emotionally.
The Vata-Pitta-Kapha type: Anyone having the three basic energies of Vata, Pitta and Kapha is well balanced and because of this is able to resist any type of health disturbance. This basis of good health has only to be maintained.