Pitta is translated as fire, but this is not meant literally. Rather, it is the principle of fire, the energy of heating or metabolism. Pitta governs all the biochemical changes that take place within our bodies, regulating digestion, absorption, assimilation, and body temperature. Pitta regulates body temperature through the chemical transformation of food. It promotes appetite and vitality.

Some attributes and how they manifest in the body.

• Hot - Good digestive fire; strong appetite, body temperature tends to be higher than normal; hates heat; gray hair with receding hairline or baldness
• Light - Light/medium body frame; does not tolerate bright light; fair shiny skin, bright eyes
• Oily - Soft oily skin, hair, feces; does not like deep-fried food (which may cause headaches)