Ghee — Names and General Properties
घृतम्
Ghrita (ghee/clarified butter) is described as the best among all fatty substances (Sneha). The chapter opens with the statement that ghee is sweet in taste, cold in potency, and sweet in post-digestive effect. It has a thousand-fold potentiality (Sahasra Virya) and can be used in innumerable ways. Ghee is Rasayana (rejuvenative), Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes), promotes digestive fire (Agni-vardhaka), enhances beauty (Lavanya), promotes Ojas (vital essence), and is the best substance for alleviating Pitta and Vata. It promotes memory (Smriti), intelligence (Medha), longevity (Ayush), strength (Bala), and is aphrodisiac (Vrishya). Ghee is also described as Visa-ghna (anti-toxic), Unmada-hara (useful in insanity), Apasmara-hara (useful in epilepsy), and Jvara-hara (useful in fever). It is Sheetala (cooling), Mangalya (auspicious), and the supreme substance among fats. Verses 1-3.
What is Ghee — Names and General Properties (Ghrita / घृत)?
<p>Ghrita (ghee/clarified butter) is described as the best among all fatty substances (Sneha). The chapter opens with the statement that ghee is sweet in taste, cold in potency, and sweet in post-digestive effect. It has a thousand-fold potentiality (Sahasra Virya) and can be used in innumerable ways. Ghee is Rasayana (rejuvenative), Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes), promotes digestive fire (Agni-vardhaka), enhances beauty (Lavanya), promotes Ojas (vital essence), and is the best substance for alleviating Pitta and Vata. It promotes memory (Smriti), intelligence (Medha), longevity (Ayush), strength (Bala), and is aphrodisiac (Vrishya). Ghee is also described as Visa-ghna (anti-toxic), Unmada-hara (useful in insanity), Apasmara-hara (useful in epilepsy), and Jvara-hara (useful in fever). It is Sheetala (cooling), Mangalya (auspicious), and the supreme substance among fats. Verses 1-3.</p>
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
<ul><li>Rasayana (rejuvenative)</li><li>Vrishya (aphrodisiac)</li><li>Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes)</li><li>Deepana (appetizing)</li><li>Balya (strengthening)</li><li>Ayushya (promotes longevity)</li><li>Medhya (intellect-promoting)</li><li>Smritikara (memory-enhancing)</li><li>Ojas-vardhaka (promotes Ojas/vital essence)</li><li>Agni-vardhaka (promotes digestive fire)</li><li>Vata-hara (alleviates Vata)</li><li>Pitta-hara (alleviates Pitta)</li><li>Lavanya-kara (promotes beauty/grace)</li></ul>
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.