Let’s now take a look at the pungent taste, it’s various qualities, the role it plays in the digestive process, as well as the effects it has on our body, mind and spirit.
The pungent taste is made up primarily of the fire and air elements. Its qualities are heating, light and drying. It is the hottest of the 6 tastes. It helps bring balance to those whose constitutions are predominantly earth and water, while potentially aggravating those who have more of the ether, air and fire elements.
In terms of digestion, the pungent taste is the 4th taste we want to consume in a meal. Most intestinal enzymes are pungent and further the digestive process of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The fire component causes increased heat and circulation, while the air component results in gases and intestinal peristalsis.
When we eat something pungent, the taste buds in the center of the tongue become active and send a message to the related organs, which are the stomach and heart.
Some examples of pungent foods:
- Vegetables: onion, radishes, leaks, scallions, turnips, raw spinach, jalapeños.
- Grains: spelt and buckwheat
- Herbs & Spices: garlic, ginger, cloves, cardamom, paprika, turmeric, cumin, thyme, sage, cinnamon, mustard seed, cilantro, horseradish, wasabi, black, cayenne and chili pepper.
When used moderately, the pungent taste stimulates appetite, digestion, metabolism and improves absorption. It helps clean the mouth, clear the sinuses, reduce cholesterol, remove fat from the body, break up clots and helps with the elimination of wastes.
In addition, the pungent taste is stimulating, invigorating and aromatic. It encourages sweating, aids in circulation, cleanses the blood, effectively clears moisture and congestion, and has blood thinning and anti-parasitic properties.
In excess, however, too much pungent taste can cause negative reactions. It may induce burning, diarrhea, heartburn, muscle pain, insomnia and nausea. It can also lead to inflammation, colitis, peptic ulcers, and sexual debility in both sexes. The sharp penetrating action of the pungent taste can cause irritation and potentially be carcinogenic. Therefore, cancer patients should avoid extremely hot, pungent foods.
Psychologically, the pungent taste can spice up our life. It can bring us vitality, enthusiasm
Combining the six tastes in our meals helps us to feel satisfied and to ensure that we are receiving all the nutrients we need. As you prepare and eat your food mindfully, become aware of all the different spices of life, including the pungent taste. Stay tuned as we continue our overview of the 6 tastes, exploring the bitter taste in our next blog.