Introduction:
I grew up in a kitchen with a big pot full of golden elixir near the stove, ready to use for almost everything. I fondly remember helping Mom make this soul food, scraping off the foam that would rise to the top, and enjoying the beautiful and rich golden color of the finished product in the clean pots. That sweet aroma from the golden elixir always nurtures the mind. Yes, I am talking about Ghee (Clarified butter), the golden elixir of Ayurveda.
The Art of Ghee Making:
Ghee is highly valued in Ayurvedic therapies such as Panchakarma and daily diets due to its traditional method of preparation from cow’s milk. Making Ghee involves churning whole milk, separating the butter, and clarifying it through gentle heating. Ghee enhances digestion and metabolism. That’s how it supports tissue health and promotes overall body rejuvenation. Because of its health benefits and golden color, it is often called a “Golden Elixir.”
Nourishing Body and Mind:
1. It strengthens the brain and nervous system and promotes memory, intelligence, Agni (digestive fire), and Ojas (essential life energy).
2. It is a great rasayana (rejuvenator) for the eyes
3. It enhances the digestive fire while cooling and alkalizing
4. It binds toxins and pacifies pitta and vata, thus helpful in Panchakarma
5. Not only does it hydrate the skin, but it also enhances the complexion and glow of the face and body
6. Tt strengthens the brain and nervous system, thus increasing physical and mental stamina
7. It supports learning, retention, and recall
8. It is a rejuvenation, thus increasing longevity
9. It cools and lubricates the stomach wall
10. It nurtures and cleanses blood tissue
Ghee for skin care in Ayurveda
For topical use, it is prepared by washing it with water 100 times. Add equal amounts of water, mixing it thoroughly with a hand for 3 – 5 minutes, letting out the water. Then again, add fresh water and continue mixing and washing the Ghee. In Ayurveda, it is advised to repeat the procedure 100 times. This process transforms the Ghee into a soft, cooling, nourishing, silky cream.
Recommended use: It is an excellent astringent, moisturizing, hydrating, and cleansing cream. Use it as a daily moisturizer on the face (or whole body) or for facial massage. It also has a calming effect on reddish or burned skin.
Incorporating Ghee into Everyday Life:
If you are new to ghee you may ponder how to incorporate it into your daily life. Ghee can replace butter or oil in any dish. You can use it to sauté veggies or add it to lentil soups, stews, and rice to enhance the taste and texture of a dish. Some great meal options to add Ghee to your diet include cream of wheat, oatmeal, porridge, rice dishes, kichari, stir-fry, casserole dishes, quinoa dishes, soup, and toast. You can also use it in turmeric milk or turmeric. Using it sparingly is essential, as improper use can be harmful — use of 1/2-1 teaspoon of Ghee per meal benefits Vata and Pitta imbalance. After consuming Ghee, it’s advisable to have a warm beverage such as warm water. Additionally, you should maintain proper digestive health before using Ghee.
May you be well nourished!
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