From the traditional kitchens of India, ghee has spread worldwide, topping dishes like five-grain roti or dal bukhara, drizzled over rice, or paired with maple syrup on pancakes. This ancient superfood, synonymous with Ayurveda, confidently outshines modern debates on alternative fats and trendy diets, hailed for its fashion, health benefits, and deliciousness.
Here are a few things you should understand about ghee:
1. What exactly is ghee?
Ghee, also known as clarified butter, is butter without milk solids. Sometimes referred to as the ‘most refined end product of milk’ due to its essence, it was described as the food of the Gods in ancient scriptures.
2. In what ways does ghee benefit us compared to milk and other dairy products?
- The lack of lactose and casein (protein) renders ghee suitable for individuals unable to digest dairy (lactose intolerant).
- Compared to milk, ghee is more stable and can remain at room temperature for extended periods.
- Due to its high smoke point of 450 degrees, ghee can serve as a substitute for both butter and oil. A higher smoke point indicates superior quality and refinement of the oil.
- The heavy, dense, and soft liquid consistency of ghee aids in building the body, unit by unit, while also enhancing sattvic qualities in both individuals and the environment. Its health benefits extend to both body and mind, promoting a refined brilliance in their functioning.
3. How does ghee benefit Ayurveda and home remedies?
- Taking a teaspoon of ghee before breakfast in the morning helps alleviate pain in the bladder region.
- Consuming garlic with ghee can aid in treating chronic fever.
- Mixing amla powder and raisins with ghee and holding the mixture in your mouth for a few minutes relieves dryness in the palate and oral cavity.
- To alleviate a burning sensation in the stomach, consume haritaki powder with ghee.
- For treating anemia and enhancing liver function, incorporate ghee and sugar into a Triphala decoction.
- Create a thick paste of flour around the eye's orbit. Fill it with herbal ghee, then open and close your eyes. This action helps strengthen eye power.
4. Which ghee offers superior quality: cow ghee or buffalo ghee?
Cow milk and ghee are considered more sattvic, being pure and purifying, while buffalo milk and ghee are viewed as more tamasic, dulling the senses. Additionally, Amisaar cow ghee contains all five elements - ether, air, fire, water, and earth - akin to ojas, the subtle life force responsible for energy, vitality, and immunity.
5. What amount of ghee is beneficial for your health?
Consume approximately ½ teaspoon (tsp) of ghee per meal, and on average, intake less than 1.5 tsp daily.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ghee, with its rich history and myriad health benefits, stands as a versatile and essential ingredient in both traditional cuisine and modern wellness practices. From its origins in the kitchens of India to its widespread use across the globe, ghee offers a range of advantages, including its stability, purity, and ability to enhance the body and mind. Whether used in cooking or as part of Ayurvedic remedies, ghee continues to prove its worth as a valuable dietary component. Whether one prefers cow ghee for its sattvic qualities or buffalo ghee for its distinct characteristics, moderation in consumption remains key to reaping its benefits. With its unique ability to harmonize with various dishes and promote overall well-being, ghee undoubtedly deserves its status as a cherished culinary and health staple.