Ancient Indian texts have long praised the benefits of cow ghee, considering it a vital part of health, spirituality, and daily life. Here are some references from Vedic and Ayurvedic texts that highlight its significance:
1. Atharva Veda
The Atharva Veda (one of the four Vedas) describes cow ghee as a sacred substance that nourishes the body and enhances intellect. It is often used in yagnas (fire rituals) to purify the environment and bring positive energy.
🔸 “Ghṛtam me dadhātu śreṣṭhatamaṁ vīryam” (Let ghee provide me with supreme strength and vitality.)
2. Charaka Samhita (Ayurveda)
The Charaka Samhita, a foundational Ayurvedic text by Acharya Charaka, describes cow ghee as:
✅ A Rasayana (rejuvenator) that enhances lifespan, intelligence, and digestion.
✅ Best for brain function, improving memory and focus.
✅ Balances Vata and Pitta doshas, helping in mental stability and immunity.
✅ Used in treating ulcers, nervous system disorders, and infertility.
🔸 “Ghṛtam buddhi medha smṛti agni balāyuṣya vardhanam” (Ghee enhances intellect, memory, digestive fire, strength, and longevity.)
3. Sushruta Samhita (Ayurveda)
Written by Acharya Sushruta, this text praises cow ghee for:
✅ Healing wounds and improving skin health.
✅ Acting as a coolant for the body, helping with inflammatory conditions.
✅ Used in Panchakarma therapy (especially in Basti treatment for detoxification).
🔸 “Ghṛtam śukra śoṇita vardhanam” (Ghee increases vitality and reproductive health.)
4. Bhagavad Gita
The Bhagavad Gita mentions cow ghee in relation to yagna (sacrifice), highlighting its spiritual significance:
🔸 “Aham vaishvānaro bhūtvā prāṇināṁ deham āśritaḥ | Prāṇāpāna-samāyuktaḥ pacāmyannaṁ caturvidham ||” (I am the digestive fire in the bodies of all living beings, and with the help of prana and apana, I digest the four types of food.) – Bhagavad Gita (15.14)
This suggests that ghee, being easily digestible and nourishing, plays an important role in maintaining internal balance.
5. Manusmriti
The Manusmriti considers cow ghee a pure and sattvic (positive energy) food that uplifts the mind and body. It emphasizes that ghee from desi cows is essential for health and religious rituals.
6. Ashtanga Hridayam (Ayurveda)
This ancient text describes Ghritam (ghee) as the best of all fats:
✅ Enhances ojas (vital energy) and improves strength.
✅ Used in Netra Tarpana (eye treatment) to improve vision.
✅ Helps with mental clarity and emotional balance.
🔸 “Sarpiḥ sarvabhūtānām madhuraṁ śreṣṭham” (Among all natural substances, ghee is the sweetest and the best.)
Conclusion
For thousands of years, desi cow ghee has been a sacred and healing substance in India. Whether in Ayurveda, Vedic rituals, or daily diet, its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits are undeniable.
