In today’s health-conscious world, traditional foods like ghee are often not preferred as they are referred to as “too oily” or blamed for weight gain and heart problems. For years, ghee was seen as the enemy and the main culprit for an increase in cholesterol, fat, and everything a ‘fit’ lifestyle tries to avoid. Remember those warnings while growing up? “Skip the ghee if you want to lose weight.”
But here’s the twist: that ghee from your grandma’s kitchen, the one that added flavour to dal, rotis, and parathas, is making a comeback. And this time, it’s not just about taste or tradition. People across India are going back to basics by adding ghee to hot rice, stirring it into their dal, or sipping warm milk with a drop of it before bed. Desi ghee, especially the A2 kind made from native cow milk, is now being seen as a powerful fat that supports your gut, brain, immunity and yes, your overall health.
Turns out, what we were told to avoid might actually be one of the healthiest things on our plate.
What makes desi ghee special?
Desi ghee, especially A2 ghee, is rich in good fats like butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that plays a big role in digestion and inflammation. According to a 2021 review in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, butyrate supports the health of the intestinal lining, improves gut barrier function, and even helps reduce bloating and digestive discomfort.
Unlike processed oils or butter substitutes, ghee is naturally lactose and casein-free, making it easier on the stomach, even for people with dairy sensitivity.
1. Supports digestion gently
Ghee works like a natural soother for your stomach. Instead of masking symptoms like antacids do, it tackles the root. Butyrate in ghee supports the lining of your intestines and eases inflammation. For those dealing with gas, acidity or IBS-like symptoms, a teaspoon of ghee could make a difference.
2. A gentle laxative, trusted by generations
In many Indian homes, elders still recommend warm milk with ghee before bedtime. Why? It gently lubricates the intestines, helping smooth digestion and bowel movement without any harsh side effects. It’s one of the few home remedies with both anecdotal and clinical support.
3. Feeds your good gut bacteria
Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that affect everything from digestion to mood. Ghee helps feed the good ones. A study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition (2020) noted that short-chain fatty acids like butyrate play a vital role in maintaining a healthy microbiome and reducing gut inflammation.
4. Helps prevent sugar spikes
That spoon of ghee on your roti slows down the absorption of sugar from carbs, which helps maintain steady energy levels. This makes it especially helpful for those managing blood sugar or pre-diabetes.
5. Keeps your digestive fire strong
In Ayurveda, digestion is called ‘agni’ your internal fire. If it burns too low, you feel sluggish; too high, and you may feel acidic. Ghee keeps this fire balanced, helping you digest food efficiently, especially after heavy or oily meals.
6. Detoxes the body
Ghee plays a central role in ancient Ayurvedic detox therapies like Panchakarma. Its fats can bind to fat-soluble toxins in the body and pull them out. It’s a slow, gentle cleanse, no harsh teas or quick-fix powders needed.
7. Feeds your brain and focus
There’s growing interest in how ghee may support brain health. Ayurveda has long used ghee infused with herbs like Brahmi to improve memory and clarity. Studies suggest that good fats like those in ghee may help reduce inflammation in the brain and support cognitive function.
8. Improves vitamin absorption
Vitamins like A, D, E, and K need fat to be absorbed by your body. If your diet is too low in fat, you could be missing out on the benefits of all those leafy greens and herbs. Ghee acts like a carrier, helping your body hold on to these vital nutrients.
9. Boosts your immunity
Ghee contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a compound shown in studies to support immunity and reduce inflammation. No wonder it’s the first thing many Indian families offer after fever, fatigue, or illness: it’s comforting, healing, and energising.
10. Pairs well with healing herbs
Ayurveda calls ghee a yogavahi, a substance that helps carry herbs deeper into the body. Whether it’s turmeric for inflammation, ginger for warmth, or ashwagandha for stress relief, ghee enhances their effects.
From healing the gut and feeding the brain to helping your body absorb nutrients better, it’s both food and medicine. As we turn to natural, rooted ways to stay healthy, ghee proves that sometimes, grandma really did know best!
