1. What is Clarified Butter?

Clarified butter, commonly known as ghee in India, is pure butterfat that has been separated from milk solids and water. The process of slow heating removes lactose and casein, making it suitable for people with dairy sensitivity.

It is golden in color, rich in flavor, and has a high smoke point (250°C), which makes it ideal for Indian cooking, frying, and even baking.

2. History and Origin

Clarified butter dates back to 3000 BCE and finds a sacred place in Vedic rituals, Ayurvedic medicine, and traditional Indian cooking. The ancient texts like Charaka Samhita mention ghee as a powerful healing fat used for internal and external wellness.

Its use is not limited to India—Middle Eastern and African cultures also used clarified butter in religious offerings and culinary traditions.

3. Nutritional Value

Here is a breakdown of the nutritional profile of 1 tablespoon (15g) of clarified butter:

It is free from lactose, casein, trans fats, and is shelf-stable for months without refrigeration.

4. Top 10 Health Benefits of Clarified Butter

Here are the ten most powerful health benefits you get from consuming clarified butter:

1. Boosts Digestion Naturally

Ghee stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes. It lubricates the intestinal wall, improving nutrient absorption and bowel movements.

2. Strengthens Immunity

Rich in butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid, it improves gut health and strengthens the immune system by reducing inflammation.

3. Good for Heart Health

Though high in fats, ghee contains Omega-3 fatty acids and CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid), which reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve heart function.

4. Enhances Brain Function

Ghee is a satvic food in Ayurveda—believed to nourish the mind and increase focus, memory, and calmness.

5. Balances Hormones

Healthy fats in ghee are essential for hormone production and balancing the endocrine system, especially in women.

6. Promotes Healthy Skin

Ghee is deeply moisturizing and can be consumed or applied topically for glowing skin and treatment of dryness, wounds, and burns.

7. Supports Weight Loss

Contrary to belief, moderate consumption of ghee helps in burning fat and boosting metabolism, especially when combined with a healthy diet.

8. Safe for Lactose-Intolerant People

Because clarified butter is free from milk solids, it can be safely consumed by most people with lactose or casein sensitivity.

9. Helps in Detoxification

In Ayurveda, ghee is used in Panchakarma therapy to eliminate toxins from the body and cleanse the digestive system.

10. Enhances Nutrient Absorption

Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) are better absorbed when taken with healthy fats like clarified butter.

5. Clarified Butter vs. Regular Butter

Clarified butter wins in terms of usability, digestion, and longevity.

6. Ayurveda and Clarified Butter

According to Ayurveda:

• Ghee is a Tridoshic, meaning it balances all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha

• It is the best anupana (carrier) for herbal medicines

• Used in Nasya therapy (nasal drops), Netra Tarpana (eye therapy), and even brain nourishment (Medhya Rasayana)

Ayurveda recommends ghee for mental clarity, longevity, and rejuvenation.

7. How to Make Clarified Butter at Home

Ingredients:

• 1 kg unsalted butter (preferably from grass-fed cows)

Steps:

1. Place butter in a heavy-bottomed pan.

2. Heat on low flame till it melts completely.

3. Continue heating until milk solids settle and the butter turns golden.

4. Strain through muslin cloth and store in an airtight glass jar.

Homemade ghee is more aromatic, fresh, and cost-effective.

8. Cooking with Clarified Butter

Clarified butter can be used in:

• Tadka for dals and sabzis

• Baking cookies and cakes

• Greasing chapatis or parathas

• Adding on steamed rice or khichdi

• Frying puris or bhature

Because of its high smoke point, it retains nutrients and flavor even at high temperatures.

9. How Much is Too Much?

Ayurveda and modern nutrition agree: moderation is key.

• For adults: 1 to 2 tablespoons per day is ideal

• For children: 1 tsp daily supports brain development

• Pregnant women can benefit from 1.5 tbsp daily

Avoid excessive intake if you have:

• Fatty liver

• Severe obesity

• Uncontrolled cholesterol levels

10. Where to Buy Authentic Clarified Butter?

While market shelves are flooded with options, look for:

Cow ghee made from bilona method
A2 milk origin (especially Gir cow or Desi cows)
No added preservatives
Traditional handmade preparation (like Aasutosh Ghee)
Available online with doorstep delivery

Final Thoughts

Clarified butter is more than just a cooking ingredient—it’s a healing food, a cultural symbol, and a nutritional treasure. Including it in your daily diet can transform your health in subtle yet powerful ways.

Whether you’re following Ayurveda, Keto, or a balanced Indian diet, clarified butter is a superfood you should never ignore.