The Astringent Taste is called kashaya in Sanskrit. The dominant elements are Air and Earth bringing the qualities cool, dry, and heavy.

Bitter Taste is called tikta in Sanskrit. The dominant elements are Air and Ether bringing the qualities cool, light, and dry.

Pungent taste is called Katu in Sanskrit. The dominant elements are Fire and Air providing the qualities of hot, dry, and light.

The SWEET taste is called Madhura in Sanskrit. The dominant elements are Earth and Water providing the qualities heavy, cooling, and oily.

Each of the six Ayurvedic tastes denotes a particular biological function and energetic influence that creates changes in our system.