The elements that are predominant in a kapha individual are water (ap) and earth (prithvi), meaning water and earth. Kapha promotes growth. It is the energy and molecules that make our structure and mass and gives us all our cells, tissues and organs, it is also the glue that holds the cells together

Kapha gives shape and form to our body and is also responsible for maintaining all bodily fluids including intracellular fluid (within the cells). It governs growth, the healing of our body from the creation of new cells to the healing of ulcers. Kapha, lubricates the joints, moisturises the skin and maintains our immunity. The primary site of Kapha is the lungs and respiratory tract.

People with Kapha predominance tend to be large and heavy in nature and can be stocky. They have naturally oily skin and dark, plentiful and shining hair. They are slower in their movement and speech and have an easy going nature. They are heavy sleepers and can enjoy a sedative lifestyle. Kapha people are sweet and have a very gentle and warming nature.

The qualities of Kapha are heavy, slow, dull, cold, oily, sticky, hard and grossing and always moving. In order to restore balance Ayurvedic uses opposites as in oily, smooth, heavy, warm, dense, and slow moving foods, medicines and activities.