From halwas to rotis, ghee is an essential ingredient of almost every Indian cuisine. But apart from being used for cooking, ghee has other health benefits as well. Here is a list of health benefits that come from consuming ghee in moderation.
1. It boosts immunity.
Ghee produces butyric acid which increases the production of killer T cells. Killer T cells work against allergens and foreign particles that enter our bodies, hence strengthening our immune system.
2. It provides essential vitamins.
Ghee is rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. These vitamins are essential for boosting function of the heart, bones and brains. Ghee helps the body in absorbing essential vitamins as it contains huge amounts of dietary fats.
3. It helps in digestion.
As mentioned earlier, ghee is rich in butyric acid which is capable of improving the digestive system. Stimulation of stomach acid secretion helps with digestion and the best part is that it doesn’t slow down the process of digestion like oil and butter.
4. It aides in boosting energy levels.
Ghee is a powerhouse of energy with 470 KJ of energy per tablespoon. This is the reason why many athletes add ghee to their diet. Ghee has medium chain fatty acids which is absorbed and burnt into energy by the liver. Interesting, right?
5. It helps in treatment of burns.
Yes, you read it right. Ghee is used for treating burns and swelling in different parts of the body. Inflammation of skin can also be reduced by applying ghee to the affected area. Not only this, it also acts as a moisturizer for skin.
6. It improves eyesight.
Daily consumption of ghee in limited amounts can improve one’s eyesight.
7. It cures constipation.
For those who suffer from constipation, ghee is the food to swear by. It is said to boost metabolism and make digestion smoother.
8. It cures cough.
If you are suffering from a cough, then try eating a tablespoon of warm ghee or fry a cinnamon stick in ghee and swallow it after it has cooled down. This natural home remedy is quite useful.
9. It keeps you warm from within.
Ghee is an important ingredient in every Indian household during winters. Ghee helps keeping one’s body warm which is why it is used in many sweet dishes prepared in winters like gaajar ka halwa, panjeeri and moong ka halwa.
10. It helps in treating a clogged nose.
If you too are tired of dealing with a cold, headache and exhaustion, then ghee is your go-to solution. Ayurveda experts say that pouring a few drops of warm ghee in the nostrils every morning can provide relief and reduce infection.
11. It is good for the heart.
This is exactly why ghee is considered safer as compared to refined oil for cooking. In the book ‘Healing Foods‘, it is revealed that the fats present in ghee are not responsible for heart diseases. In fact, these fats are used as energy by the body and not stored as fats.
12. It is considered as a positive food.
According to Ayurveda, ghee has a positive impact on our brains. It is considered as a sattvic food which can improve overall growth of consciousness.
13. It has anti-cancer properties.
According to a research, ghee is rich in K2 and CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) if it is made from cows that feed on grass. CLA improves insulin resistance and the chances to fight cancer.
So now that you know the benefits of ghee, go grab your own can!