An Ayurvedic practitioner works on the premise that every person is unique in terms of their constitution and looks for imbalances in the doshas. Aggravation and imbalance in the doshas have three main categories of causative factors in Ayurveda:¹

• Senses (e.g., speech, touch, sound, taste, smell)
• Actions (e.g., thought, speech, posture, conduct)
• Seasonal Factors (e.g., temperature, humidity level)

Each dosha is associated with different physical and neurological functions and body systems, and symptoms are indicative of imbalances in the associated dosha:¹

• Physical and Neurological Body Functions Associated With Vata
• Physical and Neurological Body Functions Associated With Pitta
• Kapha Physical and Mental Functions

A patient's dosha and any imbalances are assessed through the following methods:³

• Medical and lifestyle history. Questions relating to diet, behavior, lifestyle, recent illnesses, and resilience to illness or stressors.
• Physical examination. Observation and assessment of a patient's teeth, tongue, skin, eyes, weight, voice and overall appearance.
• Diagnostic measurements/testing. Checking of patient's urine, stool, and pulse for certain diagnostic indicators.