´Kapha gives stability, lubrication, holding together of the joints and such qualities as patience.´Ashtanga Hridaya XI. 1-3
1Tarpak kapha
Tarpak
kapha is found in the head, brain,
spinal cord and the sensory organs. It provides strength to the sensory system.
It can be compared with cerebro-spinal fluid and its function is to nourish and
protect the brain. It also acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the brain
against external stressors.
2
Bodhak kapha
Bodhak
kapha is located in the mouth and tongue as a liquid which allows us to taste
our food properly. It allows us to perceive different tastes, as we can only
taste that which is soluble (completely dry food could not be tasted by a dry
mouth). Bodhak kapha as saliva is involved in the first stage of digestion, as
chewing reduces food to small pieces with a greater surface area and amylase
helps to break down carbohydrates in the mouth. Bodhak Kapha lubricates the
mouth and other sensory openings in the head.
3 Kledak kapha
Kledak
kapha appears the secretions of the mucous cells lining the stomach, and
protects it from stomach acid. It can be
damaged by painkillers, smoking, alcohol, spicy food, but is self –repairing.
It is responsible for the moistening and liquefaction of food and digestion.
4.Shleshak kapha
Shleshak
Kapha provides nourishment and lubrication
to the joints (it can be compared with the synovial fluid). It is responsible for holding the joints together.
5 Avalambak kapha
Avalambak Kapha is found in the chest region as a kind of liquid
that provides support to the circulation of the blood. Rasa (first digested
material) provides strength to the lungs, protects the chest region and
supports other Kapha functions in the body. Avalambak Kapha is found as fluid
linings of heart, lungs and chest.
Normal functions
Kapha maintains strength and structural integrity, immunity, stamina and
protection. It governs all anabolic processes, creates healthy structures, and is
responsible for the proper formation of strong tissues and quality physical
mass. It supports immunity, allowing the body to withstand external stressors, such
as disease, parasites, viral and bacterial infections, as well as a less than
optimum lifestyle or diet. It promotes stamina, the longstanding ability of the
body to carry out the necessary functions year in year out, as well as
performing marathon feats at work and home without flagging. It promotes wound
healing. Kapha is responsible for the protection of all major organs (which it
also confines to their specific locations). It maintains fluid levels in the
body and acts as a shock absorber. It governs fertility and reproduction. which
are compromised when Kapha is low.
Normal mental functions
Kapha governs feelings of contentment, satisfaction, forgiveness,
kindness, love, loyalty, values family and tradition, peacefulness, calm, and,
through nourishing the mind, gives emotional and intellectual stability. Zeal,
memory and knowledge are also positive mental functions of Kapha.
Abnormal functioning
Obesity, heaviness, high cholesterol, diabetes, mucous, lack of
appetite/cravings, low digestive power, sinuses, chest infections, eye gunk,
lethargy, oedema, swellings, itching. accumulation, congestion, any kind of
fluid imbalance, phlegm or congestion.
Abnormal mental functioning
Lack of interest in life, people and events, lack of motivation
and drive, unwillingness, indifference to others, especially those outside the
immediate family, area or culture. Lack of universal love. Apathy, depression
and laziness may be seen. Possessiveness, smothering, clinging, or greed may
also be signs of improper Kapha functioning, ie the right relationship with other
people, things or food is disturbed.
