The Ayurvedic Channel

Yogurt the heating agent Yogurt by itself has warm (ushna) virya, and hence a heating effect on the body. It is an ideal food choice in the late fall and early winter but might not be the best choice during the late winter, spring and summer. Adding herbs and fruits like mint and cucumber and whisking take the heat off and make it better suited for the summer months. The binding (grahi) quality of yogurt allows it to be used as a food choice in cases of diarrhea to create a constipating effect. Reduced-fat versions are even better suited at this job. As yogurt increases pitta dosha, it improves and strengthens the digestive fire (agni). This attribute aids one’s interest in food in cases of lack of appetite. Yogurt increases kapha dosha so it is good for someone who is looking to build strength or gain weight, as kapha dosha increases the dhatus of the body. It decreases vata dosha and increases kapha and pitta dosha.   Profile: Dosha: V-P+K+ Rasa –Sour (Amla)  Virya –W...