One of the most healing foods in Ayurveda might surprise you. It’s oily, made from dairy and full of saturated fat (the good kind). And yet it’s prized as liquid gold in the ancient Vedas, as sacred as the cow from whence it comes. Perceived as the essence of milk, ghee represents the ultimate nourishing—and purifying—food. It’s also known for its versatility, great taste (try it on toast) and long shelf life. Once you give ghee a whirl, you may never go back to butter. Need more convincing? Here are six of the most compelling reasons to incorporate ghee as part of your daily diet.
Fatty acid content
Ghee is rich in conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, a fatty acid with a reputation for potential health benefits. CLA is said to positively affect fatty acid oxidation, as well as promote a healthy weight in those who include it as part of a regular diet and exercise regimen.*
Aids detoxing
Ghee may also help support the body’s normal detoxification process. Here’s how it works: According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, cow ghee increases the availability of enzymes responsible for eliminating harmful substances.*
Supports immunity
The ancients have known it for over 5,000 years, and modern science is slowly catching on. Apparently ghee also harbors phenolic antioxidants that support normal functioning of the immune system. In Ayurvedic terms, ghee boosts ojas—literally “the fluid of life”—our body’s essential source of vigor and longevity.*
Promotes digestion
Rich in butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid that nourishes the cells of the intestines, ghee is your gut’s best friend. Also important to note: The process of making ghee, which involves cooking off milk solids from butter, burns off its lactose and cholesterol. This make ghee much easier to digest than butter or vegetable oils and suitable for the dairy intolerant. In Ayurveda, consuming ghee promotes one’s agni or digestive fire, supporting efficient digestion and normal metabolism.*
A friend to flexibility
Ghee’s ability to lubricate connective tissue makes it a favorite among yogis. It’s revered for warding off occasional stiffness and making all kinds of intricate asanas possible.*
Brain food
Ghee is rich in the healthy fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K that are critical to bone, brain, heart and immune system function. As an added bonus, ghee is a smart food for pre-conception and pregnancy, as it’s a great source of vitamin K2 (found in meats and dairy products), crucial for healthy development.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.