Ghee: The Ancient Superfood with Incredible Health Benefits You Need to Know

Ghee has been an integral part of the Indian diet. No matter which part of India you live in you have heard the traditional wisdom, often shared by elders like Dai mas or even our mothers that we should inculcate ghee in our diet, especially in winter. Ayurveda an ancient system of medicine that originated in India more than 3,000 years ago has extensively discussed the therapeutic and healing properties of ghee. Ghee has a special reference in Charaka Samhita and is considered Sattvik Aahar.

No wonder ghee has amazing health benefits, Ayurveda highlights the cognitive benefits of consuming ghee and modern research focuses on its health benefits in wound healing and skin health.

In this article, we have shared the five amazing health benefits of ghee. Read this blog to learn the Incredible Health Benefits of ghee.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.)

Benefits of ghee for pregnant women and new born babies

According to a study Ghee is 99% fat, primarily composed of saturated fats, cholesterol, omega-3 fatty acids, and unsaturated fats. Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA play a critical role in brain health, supporting brain cell growth, neuron communication, and protection against oxidative stress. During pregnancy, DHA is vital for the baby’s brain and placental development, especially in the third trimester. Low DHA levels are linked to learning difficulties and behavioural issues. Additionally, Research suggests ghee enhances the absorption of nutrients in herbal remedies, making them more effective for overall health. Ghee supports digestion, reduces bloating, and helps in managing acidity, which are common discomforts during pregnancy. It is believed that ghee prepare the body for labour by improving flexibility and reducing inflammation.

5 Amazing Health Benefits Of Ghee

1. Cognitive benefits of ghee: Ghee supports brain health and enhances cognitive function. Individual components found in ghee like Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs), omega-3 fatty acids, and Conjugated Linoleic Acids (CLAs) help in improving brain health. This component helps in the cognitive functions of the brain, particularly in aging people. Brahmi Ghrita, a traditional herbal ghee, when combined with yoga, can help improve cognitive skills like learning, focus, quick thinking, and memory, especially in older adults with mild memory issues.

2. Gut health benefits of ghee: According to Ayurvedic text, camel ghee has higher gastrointestinal (GI) benefits. The fatty acids in ghee help with better digestion and gut health. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) improve digestion, strengthen the gut lining, and boost the immune system in the digestive tract.. Inculcating Ghee in a regular diet helps you to feel full and satisfied after eating. As a result ghee reduces the urge to eat more, which can help in controlling the amount of food or calories we take.

3. Rejuvenating and Immune-Boosting Benefits of ghee: Ghee has the remarkable ability to nourish the body and distribute nutrients effectively, which helps boost immunity, promote longevity, and slow down the aging process. In children, Ghee helps boost immunity. Ghee-based herbal formulas have been shown to reduce stress. Research indicates that components in ghee, like butyric acid, aid in the production of killer T cells in the intestines, boosting the immune system. The fatty acids present in ghee are also useful in the management of allergic, inflammatory, and auto-immune diseases.

4. Skin healing benefits of ghee: The active components and herbs of cow ghee help in the treatment of skin diseases. Ghee has antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties, which help in managing skin diseases, making it an ideal base for botanical treatments. Ghee also helps in wound repair. Ghee, as a lipid-based formulation, is beneficial for treating a range of skin conditions.

5. Bone health benefit of Ghee: Ghee is often considered beneficial for bone health due to its rich content of healthy fats and essential nutrients. Ghee is a good source of vitamin K2, which plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones.. Vitamin K2 helps in the proper distribution of calcium in the body, ensuring it is directed to the bones and teeth, rather than accumulating in soft tissues like arteries. Ghee enhances calcium absorption, provides key nutrients, and reduces inflammation in the body.

Final Thought

No wonder why ghee has been an integral part of the Indian diet, as it offers several health benefits, specifically mentioned in Ayurveda, such as cognitive improvement, gut health and immune-boosting benefits along with skin and wound healing. Modern science has also highlighted the pharmacological and therapeutic profiles of ghee. However Some studies also associate ghee with cardiovascular health risks due to the presence of saturated fatty acids, but ultimately, moderation is the key—anything beyond moderation can be dangerous for health.

So, if you are thinking of incorporating ghee into your diet, please consider it in moderation. There is no doubt that ghee has amazing health benefits, especially in winter.