Ghee, the golden elixir of Ayurveda

Judi Harvin
If you've ever given more than a passing nod to the Indian system of health called "Ayurveda", you've heard about ghee. Ghee is clarified butter; butter that has been simmered until the water and milk solids are removed. The water steams out, and the milk solids fall to the bottom of the pan. What lies between is a clear, golden liquid. This is the ghee.

As the ghee cools, it will solidify and become light yellow, and look very much like regular butter. However, ghee does not require refrigeration. Yes, it's true...not only can you leave it at room temperature in your pantry (a plus if you were an Ayurvedic practitioner in India hundreds of years ago), but it's said the medicinal qualities of ghee are enhanced with age.

Just what are the qualities that make ghee so magical? First, remember that Ayurveda does not frown upon oils as many western diets do. While moderation is key, (especially if you tend to be heavier), Ayurveda recognizes the benefits of healthy oils in the diet. And ghee is considered to be one of the healthiest.

All healthy oils improve the luster of the skin and hair. Oils are lubricating, so they nourish the connective tissues in the body, increasing flexibility. Healthy oils improve memory, being good for brain function. They feed the digestive fire, strengthening agni.

But ghee is the oil of choice in Ayurveda. Besides easy storage, ghee:

• has a higher smoke point than many other oils. Smoke point is the point when a heated oil begins to smoke, breaking down and losing its integrity. Ghee can be heated to a higher temperature and still be healthy to ingest
• nourishes the vital essences, particularly "ojas", or "vital sap" which feeds the immune system
• pacifies pitta and vata, and small amounts are fine for kappa
• is used not only culinarily, but on the skin and in the nostrils as a lubricant
• is used as a medical carrier for herbs, sometimes dropped into the eyes and ears by Ayurvedic practitioners
• is used in Ayurvedic cleanses as a way of loosening ama in the body, and in rejuvenating formulas.

Ghee can be purchased in grocery stores, but it's relatively expensive, and easy to make at home. For the price of a pound of organic, unsalted butter (the best starting point) you can have a jar of ghee in about 30 minutes.

Remember, ghee is still an oil, and should be used in moderation like any other oil. Small amounts (less than 10% of total daily calories) have been shown to be beneficial, even in decreasing cardiovascular risks. But, higher amounts can have the opposite affect.

If you'd like to try to make a batch of golden ghee, watch our very short video here demonstrating the process. 

And, if you'd like to experiment with ghee while learning more about Ayurveda, consider joining us for our January Ayurvedic cleanse. Learn more here.