“He who begins the practise of yoga without controlling the diet suffers from many diseases and does not make progress in yoga”. (Gheranda Samhita 5/16)
Ghee is viewed as a sattvic (pure) food, purifying the layers of the mind, and is therefore seen as perfect for any spiritual or yoga practitioner. Many Ayurvedic texts give dietary guidelines for the Yogi, with ghee emphasised in lists of most highly recommended additions to a yogic diet. It is advised ”food should be mixed with ghee, nourishing all dhatus [tissues] and be pleasing and suitable.” (Hatha Yoga Pradipika, C1/62-63).
Consuming ghee is an effective way to reverse the internal dryness of the body, balancing Vata and pacifying Pitta. It is used to nurture and strengthen the nervous system, clearing poisons from the various tissues of the body. Ghee works with the elements of fire and therefore benefits the Liver and Gallbladder which leads to strengthening of the eyes, ligaments, organs and reproductive organs. Ghee bestows lustre, prolongs life and is rejuvenating for not only the body but also the mind. A delicious addition poured over salads, added to your baked treats and as a replacement for other oils. Ghee is delicious when used to bake root vegetables, and is the only oil suitable to help ignite the agni and aid the digestive fire (Agni). Ghee as a medicinal substance takes the nutrients from the food that we consume and carries it deep into the seven dhatus (tissues) of the body.
Method of how to make your own Ghee:
Unsalted butter is slowly simmered for about 20-40 minutes (depending on the quantity of butter) while sacred chants are played to infuse the oil with divine Shakti. All the water is gently evaporated leaving the milk sugars (Lactase) to sink to the bottom while the fat rises to the top. Use a large spoon to gently scrap off the clumps of white fat from the golden liquid. Avoid stirring the mixture as you want to encourage the components of the batter to separate. Once the fat is scraped from the surface you are left with the pure golden, sweet smelling oil that is called Ghee.
“The subtle part of churned curds rises up and becomes butter. The subtle part of food when eaten rises up and becomes mind”. (Chandogya Upanishad 6/6/1).
Enjoy consuming this golden elixir!