ghee

Ghee is a type of butter that has been simmered to remove the milk solids and water content, leaving behind a golden, fragrant, and nutrient-dense fat. It is a popular ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cuisines, and has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its various health benefits.

History of Ghee

Ghee has been used in Indian cuisine for over 5,000 years, and is considered a sacred food. It was traditionally made by simmering butter over a low flame until the water evaporated and the milk solids sank to the bottom, leaving behind a clear, golden liquid.

In ancient Ayurvedic medicine, ghee was used to promote digestion, boost the immune system, and balance the body's doshas (energies). It was also used topically to soothe skin irritation and promote wound healing.

Benefits of Ghee

Ghee is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutrient-dense food. Here are some of the health benefits associated with ghee consumption:

1. Supports digestion: Ghee contains butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid that helps improve gut health by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

2. Boosts immunity: Ghee is a good source of vitamin A, which is essential for immune function and vision.

3. Anti-inflammatory properties: Ghee contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which may help prevent chronic diseases.

4. Promotes brain health: Ghee is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and cognitive function.

5. Lactose and casein-free: Ghee is a great option for those who are lactose or casein intolerant, as it contains no milk solids.

Uses of Ghee

Ghee is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most common uses of ghee:

1. Cooking: Ghee has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking at high temperatures. It can be used for sautéing, frying, and roasting.

2. Baking: Ghee can be used in place of butter or oil in baking recipes.

3. Spreading: Ghee can be used as a spread on toast, crackers, or baked goods.

4. Coffee or tea: Adding a spoonful of ghee to coffee or tea can create a creamy, frothy texture.

5. Ghee can be used externally to soothe skin irritation and promote wound healing. It is an ingredient in one of my favorite skin balms, Beauty Balm (Banyan Botanicals), that I use daily on my face as a part of my skin care routine.

6. Certain medicated ghees like Shatavari ghee and Yasthi Madhu ghee are used internally for vaginal health.

7. Medicated ghees like Shatavari ghee are also used for breast massage.

Ghee Recipe

Yields 2 cups

Ingredients:

1 pound Organic Unsalted Butter

Directions:

1. In a heavy-bottom saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat until fully melted.

2. Once fully melted, turn the heat down to low and gently simmer the butter. It will begin to bubble and pop.

3. As the butter cooks, the milk solids (curd) will separate from the butter fat (ghee). As the milk solids sink to the bottom of the pan the oil will gradually become more and more clear.

4. You’ll know the ghee is done when the milk solids have sunk to the bottom of the pan and become very slightly brown, the ghee has become more clear, and the bubbling sounds have become quiet. Be very careful to watch the ghee closely towards the end of the cooking process as it has a tendency to over-cook and burn easily.

5. Once done, remove from heat and strain out the milk solids by pouring the ghee through a cheese cloth.

6. Store ghee in a glass container at room temperature. The milk solids are also edible and should be stored in the fridge and eaten within 3 days.

How Ghee is used for Cleansing

Panchakarma is a traditional Ayurvedic therapy that involves a series of cleansing and rejuvenating treatments designed to remove toxins from the body and restore balance to the doshas (energies) of the body. Ghee is an essential component of Panchakarma, and is used in several ways during the therapy.

Here's how ghee is used in Panchakarma:

Snehana (Oleation therapy)

Snehana is the first stage of Panchakarma, and involves the internal and external application of ghee or other oils to lubricate the body and loosen toxins. The internal oleation therapy involves consuming medicated ghee for several days to prepare the body for the cleansing therapies that follow.

During the external oleation therapy, the body is massaged with warm medicated oils, sometimes including ghee, to promote lymphatic drainage, increase circulation, and relax the muscles.

Basti (Medicated enema)

Basti is a specialized Ayurvedic therapy that involves the introduction of medicated fluids, and at time this includes ghee, into the colon through the rectum. Ghee enemas are believed to be particularly effective for detoxifying the liver and promoting the elimination of toxins from the body.

Nasya (Nasal therapy)

Nasya is a therapy that involves the administration of medicated oils or ghee through the nostrils. Ghee is used in Nasya to lubricate the nasal passages, promote nasal drainage, and relieve congestion.

Shirodhara (Head oil therapy)

Shirodhara is a deeply relaxing therapy that involves the continuous pouring of warm oil and sometimes ghee over the forehead. The warm ghee is believed to stimulate the pineal gland, which regulates sleep and mood, and promote relaxation and mental clarity.