Ushna
One of the twenty Ayurvedic attributes; the hot quality stimulates gastric fire, improves circulation, digestion, absorption, assimilation, and promotes cleansing.
Ushna (Hot): Effects on Body and Doshas
The hot quality increases Pitta and decreases Vata and Kapha. It stimulates gastric fire, improves circulation, digestion, absorption, and assimilation. It liquefies Kapha, as fire melts wax, and calms Vata because Vata is cold. The hot quality promotes cleansing — eating hot curry causes sinuses to run because heat liquefies Kapha and removes it from the system.
Green chilies and cayenne pepper are hot. Hot causes increase of Pitta, and since Pitta is hot, it can make a person irritable and angry.
Source: Textbook of Ayurveda: Fundamental Principles, Chapter Two: Universal Attributes and Doshic Theory
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.