Health benefits of Ghee

Ghee holds a special place in Indian culture. It is the pure essence of milk given from the sacred cow. Ghee is seen like mother’s milk in Ayurveda, absolutely essential for health and wellbeing.

Many Westerners are concerned that the use of ghee will increase their cholesterol or add unnecessary amounts of fat to their diet. Used within the context of an Ayurvedic lifestyle, this is quite unlikely to occur.

Ghee, unlike butter, helps to stimulate the healthy flow of fluid throughout the body. Butter can congest, ghee removes blockages. No other substance stimulates the flow of bodily fluids as ghee does. Cold-pressed olive oil is specific for stimulating the flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder and thereby relieving congestion. But ghee does this throughout the body. At the same time ghee strengthens ojas, our vital energy containers, which are at the root of our wellbeing and immunity. Through ojas, ghee nourishes tejas as well, the fire of our mind. In this way, intelligence, energy, confidence, understanding, and memory are enhanced.

Ghee is a rejuvenative to Vata and Pitta and in moderation strengthens Kapha as well. There are many practical therapeutic ways to use ghee

A dab of ghee can be put on a little finger and massaged gently into the nasal passages before bed and upon rising. This Nasya treatment unblocks the sinus passages, which also clears feelings and can improve eyesight.

As a simple laxative, especially good for Vata, ghee can be taken at the rate of 1-2 teaspoons per cup of hot milk, again at bedtime.

Taken with food, ghee stimulates agni (digestive fire) and all the other digestive juices and enzymes.

Adding a little bit of organic ghee to our meals, or hot milk is providing a lot of health benefits.

There are many medicated ghees used in Ayurveda to treat various conditions.

Ghee in combination with Shatavari is used to enhance fertility. Medicated ghee with bitter herbs is used in liver conditions or skin diseases.

In Ayurveda it is recommended to undergo Panchakarma Therapy once or twice a year, at the change of season or whenever recommended. This in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle , relaxed balanced eating and attention to community and loved ones, support inner and outer wellbeing.

For more information on our ongoing Panchkarma retreats in India visit ‘Retreats in India’ section.

If you would like to buy our homemade organic ghee please contact us directly.

*Sources:'Ayurvedic Cooking for All’ by Amadea Morningstar; 'Ayurvedic Medicine’ by Sebastian Pole

* Image thanks to Wikipedia.