In Ayurveda, ghee has been valued for thousands of years because it nourishes the tissues (Dhatus), strengthens the digestive fire (Agni) and builds Ojas (inner resilience). It is also considered a “sattvic food” that has a balancing effect on body and mind.
Ghee plays a central role, during a Panchakarma programme: it is used both internally and externally and serves as an important means of mobilising and eliminating metabolic residues (Ama) from the body.
Internal Oleation
The internal intake of ghee, known as Snehapana in Ayurveda, is a preparatory step in Panchakarma. Here, the guest is given an individually tailored amount of medicated ghee over several days. This serves as an important measure for binding and mobilising fat-soluble metabolic residues (Ama) so that they can be eliminated. Elimination is achieved through specific procedures, such as therapeutic purging (Virechana Karma) or medicated enemas (Basti Karma).
External Oleation
Externally, ghee is used during the treatment in massages and special Ayurvedic therapies such as Netra Tarpana (eye bath) or Padabhyanga (foot massage). Its cooling and nourishing properties particularly support the Vata Dosha and the Pitta Dosha and calm the nervous system.
Nutrition
In our restaurant, ghee is an integral part of a balanced nutrition, suited to each Dosha constitution. Gently heating vegetables, herbs and spices in ghee not only brings out their flavours, but also enhances their beneficial properties. It can also be used to refine dishes – a spoonful over a finished dish adds flavour and makes it even more digestible. Ghee provides full-bodied flavour and a nourishing component, especially in lighter meals, such as steamed vegetables, dal and kitchari.
If you are curious and would like to experience the benefits of ghee for yourself, we highly recommend making it at home; it is simple to prepare with just a single ingredient. You can find instructions in this blog post: Ghee – a vital life elixir – tips for use and making
Alternatively, you can purchase our high-quality organic ghee in our Ayurveda Online Shop
