Most foodie dreams are made of crisp paranthas dripping with ghee, or freshly steamed spongy idlis topped with a dollop of grainy ghee. Owing to its origins from ancient India, the word ‘ghee’ was derived from Sanskrit word which literally means ‘sprinkle’. Touted as one of the purest forms of fat, ghee is basically milk fat which has been separated from butter.

However, due to the extremely high percentage of saturated fat, ghee was red flagged as unhealthy by health experts. But recent studies have proven that consumption of ghee in moderation can actually provide some amazing health benefits.  It is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin D and Vitamin E. It also contains Omega-3s, butyric acid and conjugated linoleic acid, all of which are extremely beneficial for health. According to Ayurveda, when used for cooking, ghee becomes the ‘mode of goodness’.

So let’s take a look at what all benefits can be derived consumption of Ghee:

1.Eat ghee for a healthy heart

Use of ghee in moderation doesn’t cause clogged arteries, infact wide variety of fats in ghee  promote heart health. The presence of Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce cholestrol and act as a source of instant energy.

Most of the fats present in ghee can be processed by the liver and are converted to energy instead of being stored in adipose tissue as ‘fat’. Ghee also contains amino acids which can burn fat and reduce the size of fat cells. Interestingly, ghee is recommended as an instant source energy to athletes!

2. Increases immunity

One of the notable components of ghee is butyric acid, which has been known to promote the stimulation of T-cells. T-cells in turn play an important role in building immunity. Therefore, use of unadultrated ghee in cooking can help you keep diseases at bay.

3. Good eyesight

High percentage of Vitamin A in ghee helps you maintain 6/6 eyesight. It also contains Caretenoids, antioxidants which eliminate free radicals in body and prevent the development of cataracts.

4. Prevents Cancer

When fats burn, they release free radicals which can be carcinogenic. But because ghee has a high smoking point, it doesn’t burn easily and therefore, minimal number of free radicals are produced. Ghee is also a rich source of Vitamin A, butyric acid and conjugated linoleic acid. Butyric acid and conjugated linoleic acid are powerful antioxidants, which when combined with Vitamin A,  act as effective cancer fighting substances.

Because of the presence of antioxidants, regular consumption of ghee reduces the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Good for digestive health

Ghee promotes secretion of stomach acids which help in digestion. Well known dieticians state that ghee must must be added to our daily dose of dal and chawal so that they can be absorbed better. Butyric acid is beneficial in reducing inflammation of the intestinal tract and is especially prescribed to patients who are suffering from stomach ulcers. Ghee also acts as an instant remedy to relieve constipation.

6. Good for skin and hair

Ghee is a natural moisturiser, which is free from chemicals and preservatives.  Ayurveda experts recommend consumption of ghee mixed with water first thing in the morning  for atleast a few months to get glowing and radiant skin.

Application of ghee on lips can prevent them from getting dry and discoloured.  Apply a coat of ghee on lips before bedtime for supple and soft lips. It is also an effective remedy for under eye dark circles. Ghee also acts as a great softener for your hair. A mixture of coconut oil, olive oil and ghee can make dull and dry hair absolutely soft and smooth.

However, while marvelling over the benefits of ghee, one must keep in mind that moderation is the key here. Due to his high fat content, excessive consumption of ghee can be detrimental to health.

To know more about how ghee can act as a natural medicine, Click Here.