Introduction

Our kitchens are home to a plethora of ingredients that can be used as Ayurvedic medicines and herbs to provide great benefits to health and wellness. Today, we will do a deep dive into perhaps the most widely used of them all, ‘Ghee’ or clarified butter.

We will cover the lesser-known benefits of this powerhouse ingredient and explore its transformative effects on the lips, skin, and hair. 

What is Ghee?

Ghee, often referred to as clarified butter, is a delightful golden-yellow semi-liquid with a unique aroma and flavor. Its roots trace back to ancient India, where it gained prominence in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. Derived from the Sanskrit word ghṛita, ghee has been cherished for its culinary, ritualistic, and healing properties.

Known as "liquid gold" in India, ghee became indispensable in hot climates where preserving regular butter without refrigeration posed challenges. Ayurveda emphasizes the purity of ghee made from cow's milk, known as shuddh desi ghee, which translates to "pure indigenous ghee." This version is celebrated for its nutritional richness, especially in supporting digestive health, making it a suitable option even for those with lactose intolerance.

How to Make Ghee? 

1. Begin by melting butter in a thick pan until it turns foamy.
2. Allow the butter to simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the milk solids to settle at the bottom.
3. Prevent burning by stirring the mixture occasionally during the simmering process.
4. Witness the transformation as ghee forms a clear, golden liquid on the top layer.
5. Ensure the ghee cools completely before moving to the next step.
6. Strain the ghee using a muslin cloth to remove any remaining impurities.
7. Preserve the goodness by storing your homemade ghee in an airtight container.

Benefits of Ghee for Skin

Ghee is packed with omega fatty acids and antioxidants, which work wonders for the skin. It moisturizes, adds a healthy shine, and helps the skin absorb essential nutrients. 

1. It is packed with Vitamin A and rich fatty acids, which help in providing deep moisturization. It is a natural method for providing deep and lasting hydration. 

2. Ghee can make your skin brighter and helps in adding glow because it contains antioxidants. These antioxidants can protect your skin from damage caused by oxidative stress.

3. Ghee can even increase the skin’s elasticity- whether ingested or applied topically. Topical application also results in firmer-looking skin, thanks to its Vitamin K content that aids in collagen production, along with the Vitamin A that acts as a natural moisturizer. Adding ghee to your diet not only hydrates your skin from within but also boosts immunity. Cow ghee, in particular, contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which supports fat loss and builds lean muscles.

Pro Tip: Applying ghee to your knees, elbows, and ankles during wintertime helps to keep them well-nourished and moisturized. If you’re looking for an instant solution, try our Shatdhauta Ghrita Harshringar Ghee Cream, which is proven to reduce dryness & inflammation within 7 days. 

Benefits of Ghee for Lips

In ancient Ayurvedic teachings, applying ghee to the lips is considered a sacred practice that restores the natural vitality of the lips.

For best results, apply the ghee to your lips before bedtime, and leave it on overnight. The unique blend of nutrients in ghee works together to heal and moisturize, bringing back the lips' supple glory. 

Ayurveda believes that the condition of your lips is a direct representation of the balance of energies (doshas) in your body. The nourishing properties of ghee work to balance these energies, not just making your lips look good but also supporting inner balance. Its comforting touch goes beyond just making your lips look pretty to providing a holistic approach to lip care.

Benefits of Ghee for Hair

A lesser-known benefit of ghee is its ability to enhance hair texture and shine. In India, it is a popular choice for promoting hair health and luster. Its rich content of Vitamins A and E is believed to contribute to softer hair, while the antioxidants in ghee may assist in eliminating toxins that lead to dryness and frizz. 

Things to Keep in Mind

When using ghee topically, it is important to remember some points to make sure your skin is protected and to reap its full benefits.

1. Test a small amount on a patch of skin to ensure you don't have any allergic reactions.
2. Use pure and high-quality ghee to avoid impurities that may irritate the skin or prepare it at home for best results.
3. Apply a small amount initially; a little goes a long way, and excess may feel greasy.
4. Avoid using it on your face if you have oily skin or existing acne, as it may lead to pore congestion.
5. When applying it to the hair, focus on the tips and avoid the scalp if you have oily hair. Also, ensure thorough rinsing to prevent the build-up of residue.
6. Avoid ghee consumption if you experience cold-related symptoms including excess phlegm. Also, avoid the consumption of frozen ghee.

Conclusion

In the realm of Ayurveda, ghee isn't just a kitchen staple; it can be a nourishing companion in the journey to holistic well-being. From soothing the lips to giving the skin a healthy glow, ghee adds a touch of wholesome goodness to our daily lives. So, as you relish the delightful taste of ghee in your meals, also remember to add it to your skincare kit for everyday use. 

Made from the purest A2 cow’s ghee, Ohria Ayurveda’s Shatdhauta Ghrita Harshringar Ghee Cream provides deep hydration, firmness, and rejuvenation to the skin, delivering all the benefits of this star ingredient, without any of the hassle. 

Contact us for more skin and hair care tips or schedule a session with our in-house Ayurvedic Doctor, who can guide you towards the best products for your skin and body type.

About the Author

Dr. Neelam Motwani
(Ayurvedic Doctor)

Dr. Neelam Motwani, a dedicated Ayurvedic Physician licensed in India, brings a wealth of experience in holistic health. Specialized in Medicine (Kaya Chikitsa) with expertise in Ayurvedic skincare, women's health, and lifestyle disorders. With extensive clinical practice and frontline work during the Covid pandemic, Dr. Neelam guides individuals to their health goals through personalized Ayurvedic meal plans and lifestyle recommendations. Proficient in Panchakarma treatments and well-versed in Ayurvedic dietary and lifestyle principles.