Ayurveda acknowledges the six different kinds of tastes that exist in nature through food. As per Ayurveda, the six tastes are – sweet, salty, sour, pungent, astringent and bitter. These tastes are made through different permutations and combinations of the five elements and thus each taste has a distinct effect on the body. Ayurveda teaches that a balanced diet contains all tastes; however due to each taste distinct effect on the body, one should regulate the tastes as per ones constitution.
Sweet (earth, water) taste builds and strengthens bodily tissues while making the mind stable and calm. Examples of sweet tasting foods are: starchy vegetables and grains.
Salty (water, fire) taste helps lubricate tissues, maintain mineral balance, retain body fluids, improve appetite and calm nervous system. Example of salty foods are: rock salt, soy sauce and sea weed.
Sour (earth, fire) taste restores digestion, improves heart function and amplifies intellectual abilities. Example of sour foods are: citrus fruits, berries, kimchi, sour kraut and kombucha.
Pungent (fire, air) taste helps regulate body temperature, aids in detoxification through sweating, increases metabolism, and sharpens mind and senses. Examples of pungent foods are: chillies, pepper, ginger, garlic, wasabi and arugula.
Astringent (earth, air) taste is the one which helps in body cleansing, mind relaxation, active body and maintaining blood sugar. Examples of astringent foods are: garbanzo beans, unripe bananas, pomegranates and broccoli.
Bitter (earth, air) taste in foods help in body detoxification, reducing body fat, promotes emotional clarity and balance food cravings. Examples of bitter foods are: kale, chard, cocoa, coffee and green tea.
