Top 10 Health Benefits Of Ghee, Nutrition, & Preparation At Home

Golden elixir or buttery hype? Dive deep to know why it might be the wellness hero you have been missing.

Medically reviewed by Dr Archana Batra, CDE Dr Archana Batra Dr Archana BatraCDE facebook_icontwitter_iconlinkedin_iconinsta_icon
Written by , BTech (Biotechology) Gayathri Vijay BTech (Biotechology) linkedin_icon
Edited by , BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health Ravi Teja Tadimalla BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health linkedin_icon Experience: 10 years
Fact-checked by , BEd, MSc (Microbiology), Diploma In Nutrition Aparna Mallampalli BEd, MSc (Microbiology), Diploma In Nutrition linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
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Ghee or ghrita (the Ayurvedic term) has for long been used in India and the Middle East for its culinary and medicinal properties. It adds a wonderful aroma and taste to dishes and is commonly used in making sweets. Moreover, the rich nutrient profile of ghee offers a wide range of benefits, ranging from improved digestion to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. It is also said to be healthier than butter. But what does science say?

In this article, we explore the health benefits of ghee, its nutrients, side effects, and how to make ghee at home. Read on.

What Is Ghee?

Ghee is nothing but clarified butter. It is prepared by heating butter until all its remaining water evaporates, leaving behind milk solids. It has been used as a medicinal ingredient in Ayurveda for centuries. Moreover, ghee is believed to be healthier than butter for several reasons (which will be explored in the latter part of the article).

protip_icon Trivia
The term ‘ghee’ comes from the Sanskrit word ‘ghrta’ meaning sprinkled.

Ghee is energy-rich and can round up your diet pretty well. So, what nutrients does it have? Keep reading to know.

Nutrition In Ghee

One tablespoon of ghee offers (1):

Nutrient Amount
Energy123 kcal
Carbohydrates0
Fats13.9g

Saturated: 8.67g

Unsaturated: 4.537g

Protein39g
Calcium0.56 mg
Phosphorus0.42 mg
Sodium0.28 mg
Choline3.12 mg
Vitamin A118 µg
Retinol115 µg
Vitamin E0.392 mg
  • Ghee also contains trace amounts of potassium, vitamins K and B12, and carotene.

Ghee and butter have similar nutritional profiles barring a few components. But which is healthier to eat?

Ghee Vs. Butter: Which Is Healthier?

One of the major differences between ghee and butter is the smoking point. Ghee has a higher smoking point at 485°F (252°C) as against butter’s 350°F (177°C). This makes ghee more suitable for cooking at higher temperatures (like frying or sautéing).

Another major difference is the amount of acrylamide produced. Acrylamide, a chemical produced when some ingredients are cooked at high temperatures, has cancerous properties (2). Ghee produces significantly less acrylamide compared to a few other oils (3). Ghee also has lesser lactic acid and casein (a milk solid) content than butter. Therefore, ghee is a better option if you are allergic to lactose (4). Given these differences, you can choose either ghee or butter according to your requirements.

​​Here in this blog, the blogger, Neethu, shares her experience of making homemade ghee on a boring Monday afternoon. She describes the process of stirring away her worries and boredom, transforming cream into the golden delight of clarified butter, and expresses the joy of creating something useful on a mundane day. She mentions, “So I pat myself and draw in the fresh aroma of my own pure home-made ghee.” (i)

protip_icon Fun Fact
Ayurveda regards ghee as a sattvic food, meaning that it is thought to promote positive thoughts.

What makes ghee healthier is the presence of omega-3 fatty acids. How does ghee actually benefit your health? Keep scrolling to find out.

Health Benefits Of Ghee

1. May Boost Digestion

According to Ayurveda, ghee promotes digestive fire, which improves digestion and absorption of nutrients (5). Digestive fire refers to the strength and volume of stomach acid, digestive enzymes, and bile in the gastrointestinal tract. Ghee also has a lipophilic action (it gets attracted to fat molecules). This helps in the absorption of nutrients as the cells have walls made of fat molecules (5).

Besides, the butyric acid in ghee regulates the movement (motility) of the intestinal tract. It also boosts intestinal mucus production and promotes mucosal barrier function (6). This keeps the microbes from escaping the walls of the intestine. You can also explore some buttermilk benefits, which complement ghee in supporting digestion and skin health.

2. May Help Treat Cough

Anecdotal evidence suggests that ghee may help reduce cough caused due to obstruction in the lungs. Moreover, many Ayurvedic medicines also contain ghee as one of the main ingredients to treat cough and cold. The National Health Portal-India also recommends using a few simple preparations using cow ghee to treat chronic cough (7).

3. May Help Boost Immunity

Ghee has conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been proven to protect and boost the immune system. In a study, CLA had increased anti-inflammatory protein count and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines in healthy volunteers (8). These factors help improve your body’s ability to fight many diseases. Ghee also has docosahexaenoic acid (a type of omega-3 fatty acids) that is associated with boosting immunity (9),(10).

4. Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Omega-3 fatty acids and butyric acid in ghee help reduce inflammation (11), (12). Butyric acid has specifically been shown to reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestinal cells, which could help prevent and treat gastric ulcers (12), (13). Studies also suggest that the CLA in ghee may help reduce the levels of inflammatory proteins and also boost immunity (8).

You can also use ghee to treat burns and wounds. “Dab ghee on the afflicted regions using a cotton pad. Wash off with cold water 15 minutes later. Burns may be treated, and the skin can be healed using ghee,” suggests Dr. Michael K. Newman, a plastic surgeon.

5. May Help Improve Heart Health

Omega-3 fatty acids have long been associated with improved heart health. Their anti-inflammatory properties help protect the heart from oxidative stress. Extensive research suggests that these fatty acids help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and ischemic stroke. Besides, they also help reduce the risk of sudden death from cardiac disease (11).

Omega-3 fatty acids also help reduce blood cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of hyperlipidemia (heavy fat content in the blood) and hypertension (14). Furthermore, studies link CLA with reduced oxidative stress and cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. CLA may also decrease the incidence of atherosclerosis (the accumulation of fat and cholesterol on the arterial walls) (15).

6. May Promote Weight Loss

An animal study showed that ghee may reduce serum cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels (5). Also, the CLA in ghee has anti-adipogenic properties (reduces fat production) (15).

Besides, butyric acid was also shown to reduce fat production and help with weight loss (16). “Studies have shown ghee as very efficient in fat loss because of a higher concentration of conjugated linoleic acid, which is proven to reduce fat,” says Lauren Gray, a Clinical Dietician.

7. May Help Reduce Cancer Risk

The anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids and butyric acid play a key role in reducing the risk of cancer (17), (18). Butyric acid was also shown to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death of tumor cells) in the colon and many other cancer cells (19).

Besides, CLA in ghee also has anti-cancer properties (20). Moreover, the fact that ghee produces less acrylamide (a cancer-causing compound) compared to other oils plays in its favor.

8. May Support Hair And Skin Health

Using ghee for skin care can provide deep moisturization and improve the texture f the skin. External sources like environmental pollution, toxic metals, cigarette smoke, pesticides, etc. also generate free radicals that can affect your skin and scalp, causing hair loss (21),(22). Studies suggest that vitamin E and fatty acids in ghee may help improve skin quality.
“Some sources claim it (ghee) could help nourish your scalp and promote hair growth because of the omega 3s and omega 9s as well as vitamins A and E,” explains Paula Doebrich, MPH, RDN, and a Registered Dietitian.

Insufficient Evidence For

9. May Help Reduce Insulin Resistance

A study on rodents suggests that CLA may help reduce insulin resistance, which could benefit individuals with diabetes (23). However, more studies are warranted to understand this benefit of CLA and ghee.

10. May Help Treat Hemorrhoids

According to Ayurveda, you can use cow ghee for hemorrhoids, a condition that leads to swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus. You can use it in combination with the resin of the sal tree and apply it over the affected area. This may help treat the burning sensation and excess secretion linked to the condition (24). It is also a rich source of essential fatty acids that may help reduce inflammation throughout the body (25). Thus, when applied directly to hemorrhoids or any other inflamed area on the body, it may help reduce swelling. However, there is no direct scientific evidence to support ghee being used to treat hemorrhoids. Therefore, it is recommended you consult your doctor before using it.

While ghee offers many health benefits, its prolonged excess intake may cause some adverse effects. Keep reading to know them.

Risks And Recommended Intake

The side effects of ghee can mainly be attributed to its high fat content.

  1. Continuous and excessive intake of saturated fatty acids may raise CVD risk by increasing low-density lipoproteins (LDLs or bad cholesterol) (26).
  2. While ghee may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, the high temperatures at which it is produced could cause cholesterol oxidation. This oxidation is harmful and could be a potential trigger for heart disease (27).

Therefore, according to Harland Adkins, a registered dietician, the upper limit of ghee is no more than 2 tablespoons daily. That said, we recommend you limit yourself to 1 teaspoon per day.

The benefits of ghee are best available to your body when it is prepared at home. Let us understand more in the next section.

How To Make Ghee At Home

Making ghee is a simple process that takes around 20 minutes with a 2-minute prep time.

What You Need

  • 1 pound of butter (454g)

Process

  1. Cube the butter and melt it in a skillet or pan on a low simmer.
  2. Allow the butter to cook for 15-20 minutes or until it browns. The milk solids must settle down at the bottom.
  3. Remove any foam or milk solids that float to the top.
  4. Turn off the heat, let it cool, and transfer into a glass container.

What you get is clear ghee with healthy milk solids at the bottom. This ghee has a nutty flavor and a beautiful aroma.

Optional Steps

  1. You can add a betel leaf while heating the butter for a nuttier flavor and spicy aroma.
  2. You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves to enhance the flavor.
  3. You can strain the ghee with cheesecloth if you like a clear bottle of ghee.

Ghee or clarified butter is a popular ingredient in many Indian or Middle Eastern kitchens. It is healthier than butter and is packed with fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. Ghee has many health-promoting properties due to its omega 3- fatty acid and CLA content. The benefits of ghee range from boosting heart health to aiding in weight loss. It may help reduce the harmful free radicals present in your body and reduce inflammation. However, when consumed in excess, they can cause problems. If you experience any adverse effects, limit its use and seek medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to eat ghee?

You can consume ghee on an empty stomach in the morning or add it to any meal of the day.

Is ghee healthier than olive oil?

Both olive oil and ghee are healthy sources of fat. Ghee and olive oil have almost the same number of calories, sodium, vitamin E, and fat content (1), (28). You can choose as per your preference.

Is ghee good for sperm count?

Yes, research suggests that daily consumption of ghee may increase sperm count (29).

Is ghee good for blood pressure?

Consuming small amounts of ghee may help manage hypertension (30). Consult your doctor for further information.

Key Takeaways

  • Ghee contains energy, fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
  • It contains lesser lactic acid, acrylamide, and casein (a milk solid) than butter.
  • It may boost digestion, relieve coughing, increase immunity, improve heart health, and aid weight loss.
  • The recommended intake of ghee is 2-3 tablespoons a day due to its high fat content.


Ghee has been used for centuries for its variety of benefits. Here is a science-backed video on its nutritional facts to help you make informed dietary choices. Click here to watch it!

Personal Experience: Source

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Ghee
    clarified butter
  2. Dietary Acrylamide and Human Cancer: A Systematic Review of Literature
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4164905/
  3. Acrylamide formation in vegetable oils and animal fats during heat treatment
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27374529/
  4. The lactose and galactose content of milk fats and suitability for galactosaemia
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC5471386/
  5. The effect of ghee (clarified butter) on serum lipid levels and microsomal lipid peroxidation
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3215354/
  6. Butyric acid in functional constipation
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4027827/
  7. Jirna-Kasa(Chronic cough)
    https://www.nhp.gov.in/jirna-kasachronic-cough_mtl
  8. Effect of CLA supplementation on immune function in young healthy volunteers
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15674307/
  9. Docosahexaenoic acid content is significantly higher in ghrita prepared by traditional Ayurvedic method
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4061595/
  10. Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (LCPUFAs) and the Developing Immune System: A Narrative Review
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC7830895/
  11. Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammation
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15485592/
  12. Potential beneficial effects of butyrate in intestinal and extraintestinal diseases
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3070119/
  13. Short-chain fatty acid butyrate: A novel shield against chronic gastric ulcer
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC7903393/
  14. Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25720716/
  15. High conjugated linoleic acid-enriched ghee (clarified butter) increases the antioxidant and antiatherogenic potency in female Wistar rats
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3766171/
  16. Propionic acid and butyric acid inhibit lipolysis and de novo lipogenesis and increase insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in primary rat adipocytes
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4496978/
  17. Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Cancer Cell Cytotoxicity: Implications for Multi-Targeted Cancer Therapy
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4773771/
  18. Implications of butyrate and its derivatives for gut health and animal production
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC6104520/
  19. Synergistic cytotoxicity of artemisinin and sodium butyrate on human cancer cells
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16309236/
  20. Role of the conjugated linoleic acid in the prevention of cancer
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15941017/
  21. Environmental factors and unhealthy lifestyle influence oxidative stress in humans–an overview
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23636598/
  22. Oxidative Stress in Ageing of Hair
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC2929555/
  23. Effects of three different conjugated linoleic acid preparations on insulin signaling
    fat oxidation and mitochondrial function in rats fed a high-fat diet
  24. Wound healing activity of topical application forms based on Ayurveda
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136177/
  25. Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3257651/
  26. Effects of dietary saturated fat on LDL subclasses and apolipoprotein CIII in men
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3491165/
  27. Circulating Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein is a Strong Risk Factor for the Early Stage of Coronary Heart Disease
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30414358/
  28. Olive oil
    https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/1103861/nutrients
  29. Efficacy of Virechana (therapeutic purgation) followed by Go-Ghrita (cow ghee) in the management of Ksheena Shukra (oligozoospermia): A clinical study
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/337418943_Efficacy_of_Virechana_therapeutic_purgation_followed_by_Go-Ghrita_cow_ghee_in_the_management_of_Ksheena_Shukra_oligozoospermia_A_clinical_study
  30. CRITICAL REVIEW OF COW GHEE INTAKE AND ITS RELATION
    WITH PRAMEHA OR DIABETES
    https://wjpr.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/article_issue/1518746047.pdf
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Dr Archana Batra
Dr Archana BatraPG Diploma, CDE
Dr Archana Batra is a dietitian, physiotherapist, and Certified Diabetes Educator with over 13 years of experience in nutrition and diet counseling. She specializes in weight management diets and diets related to metabolic disorders like diabetes, high cholesterol levels, hypertension, etc.

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Gayathri Vijay
Gayathri VijayHealth & Wellness Writer
Gayathri is a biotechnology graduate from Vellore Institute of Technology with a keen interest in research-oriented writing, microbiology, genetic engineering, and psychology and cognitive science. She writes about ingredients and their benefits for the human health and aims to demystify science through her articles.

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Ravi Teja Tadimalla
Ravi Teja TadimallaCo-Editor-in-Chief
Ravi Teja Tadimalla is a Co-Editor-in-Chief and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over a decade. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University.

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Aparna Mallampalli
Aparna MallampalliHealth & Wellness Writer
Aparna is a professor-turned-content writer with over 5 years of experience in life sciences. Her passion for writing and interest in the healthcare and wellness industry pushed her toward a career in content writing. She has a master’s degree in microbiology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a diploma in nutrition from Fab Academy.

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