Unlocking the Power of Ghee: A Guide to Its Health Benefits

Medically Reviewed By
Prof. Ashok Rattan
Written By Kirti Saxena
on Feb 17, 2025
Last Edit Made By Kirti Saxena
on Feb 17, 2025

Did you know Ghee is also called Liquid Gold in India? Due to its properties, it has been used for thousands of years in medicinal and culinary practices.
So, do you also like ghee?
Well, Ghee isn't just tasty but also good for your health. It boosts immunity, improves digestion, supports youthful skin, and promotes cardiovascular health. Let's uncover some of its health benefits, calories, how to add it to your diet, side effects, and more.
What is Ghee, and how is it beneficial for your health?
Ghee is clarified butter made by simmering to remove water and milk solids. This process gives a golden liquid that is lactose-free and packed with nutrients. Ghee supports digestion, immunity, and mental clarity.
Ghee is one of the best sources of healthy fats; it contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support overall health. These fats help the body stay warm and provide energy. Additionally, ghee is rich in Vitamins A, D, E, and K, which support immunity, bone health, and skin health.
Nutrition Value in Ghee
Ghee is not only a source of healthy fats but also a powerhouse of essential nutrients that promote overall well-being.
Calories in Ghee- One tablespoon (approximately 14 grams) contains around 120–130 calories.
Nutritional Value in Ghee (per 1 Tbsp / 14 g)
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 112–120 kcal |
Total Fat | 14 g |
Saturated Fat | ~8 g |
Monounsaturated Fat | ~4 g |
Polyunsaturated Fat | ~0.5 g |
Cholesterol | ~33 mg |
Rich in Fat-Soluble Vitamins
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
Healthy Fats
- Saturated and unsaturated fats
- Medium-Chain Fatty Acids
Top 10 Health Benefits of Ghee
Ghee is much more than cooking fat; it's nutrient-rich and provides many health benefits. Here are the top 10 health and wellness benefits of Ghee.
Benefits of Ghee for Females
In Women, ghee supports hormones and reproductive health.
- Nourishing Fats: Ghee contains essential fatty acids vital for hormone production and balance. Hormones are critical for maintaining women's menstrual cycles and overall reproductive health.
- Supporting Fertility- Ghee has been traditionally used to improve fertility problems and also supports the body's natural processes.
Benefits of Ghee for Males
Men can also enjoy numerous benefits from consuming ghee. Its nutrient-rich composition supports various aspects of male health and vitality. Ghee supports muscle strength and energy-
- Ghee contains fatty acids that provide a rapid energy source and support physical activity and muscle recovery.
- Some studies show that ghee helps maintain healthy testosterone levels, which supports muscle mass and strength.
Benefits of Ghee for Skin
Did you know ghee is good for your skin? Consuming ghee daily hydrates the skin, soothes patches, reduces irritation and gives it a natural glow. Ghee-
- Soften and hydrate skin
- Protect from cold, dry, windy weather
- Repair cracked lips
- Provide a natural glow
- Lighten dark spots
- Repair dry or damaged skin
- Reduce dark circles
- Rejuvenate the eyes
- Heal minor wounds
- The antioxidants in ghee help combat free radicals, one of the main culprits of premature aging.
- The vitamins A and E support collagen production, which helps make your skin elastic and soft.
- Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, Ghee has traditionally been used to help heal minor burns, cuts, and abrasions.
- If you apply ghee daily on your scars and stretch marks, the wounds will face over time.
- Ghee is rich in vitamin E, helping maintain healthy hair by reducing dryness and breakage.
Boost Energy Levels
Feeling tired all the time? Ghee can help you feel more energized and refreshed!
- Ghee contains Medium-chain fatty Acids (MCFAs) that are rapidly absorbed and converted into energy. Thus, it provides a quick energy boost without crashing high-sugar diets.
- Unlike refined carbohydrates, which cause high blood sugar spikes, ghee provides a more stable and sustained energy source.
- While ghee is good for everyone, it is best for athletes or fitness enthusiasts who need endurance and muscle recovery support.
Improves Digestion
A healthy digestive system is a cornerstone of good health; ghee helps you achieve this.
- According to Ayurvedic tradition, ghee boosts the digestive fire, leading to better digestion and metabolism.
- The healthy fats in ghee help break down other foods and allow other nutrients to be absorbed.
- Ghee supports gut health by reducing inflammation.
- Regular consumption of ghee can support the detoxification process, removing waste and toxins.
- Vitamins A, D, E, and K are essential vitamins best absorbed when eaten with fats.
- When you consume foods rich in vitamins alongside ghee, you enhance their bioavailability, which improves your body's functioning, including vision, immunity, and bone health.
Promotes Weight Loss
Do you know ghee helps in weight loss?
Surprised!!
Yes, if used appropriately, ghee can help you lose weight. Let's see how-
- The healthy fats in ghee support a well-functioning metabolism, which helps to burn out calories efficiently.
- Fats take longer to digest, thus keeping you fuller for longer and helping to curb unnecessary snacking or overeating.
- Ghee is better than other processed oils and fats, which promotes overall health management.
- Ghee provides a steady energy release, helping to maintain consistent energy levels and reducing cravings for sugary foods.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
These days, heart health is one of the major concerns. If consumed in moderation, ghee can help you maintain good heart health.
- Ghee contains both saturated and unsaturated fats. In moderate amounts, these fats can help maintain a balanced cholesterol profile.
- Ghee's antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, a key factor in the development of heart disease.
- Ghee helps reduce inflammation, which supports cardiovascular health. Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for heart disease.
Cognitive Benefits
- Vitamins A and E are known to play roles in protecting brain cells from oxidative stress.
- In Ayurvedic texts, ghee is classified as a medhya rasayana—a substance that rejuvenates the brain, enhances memory, and supports cognitive function.
Boost Immunity
A robust immune system is key to overall health, and ghee can fortify your body's natural defenses.
- Ghee is an excellent source of fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, essential for immune function.
- The antioxidants present in ghee help reduce inflammation, which is often the first step in combating chronic diseases.
Relieves Joint Pains
Every second, someone suffers from Joint pain and inflammation, which impacts daily life. Ghee is a natural remedy for soothing these aches.
- The butyrate in ghee possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce joint pain and swelling.
- Ghee helps to improve joint mobility and physical activities more comfortably.
Provides Warmth
Ghee is one of the best foods to consume in winter. It keeps you warm in colder climates.
- The medium-chain fatty acids in ghee can help kick-start your metabolism and provide your body with natural internal warmth.
- These fats are easily converted into energy, reduce the energy required for digestion, and leave you feeling warm and energized.
- Ghee contains warming properties that stimulate digestive fire and support optimal digestion and overall health.
Does Eating Ghee on an Empty Stomach Good?
Yes, consuming ghee in ghee on an empty stomach has several benefits-
- Consuming a small amount of ghee in the morning can stimulate digestive enzymes and prepare the gut for the day’s meals.
- Starting your day with ghee may help flush out toxins and support the liver’s detoxification processes.
- A teaspoon of ghee on an empty stomach provides a quick, healthy source of energy that can help jump-start your metabolism. It also enables you to absorb nutrients from your meals.
- Ghee’s smooth, lipid-rich composition can help coat the stomach lining, reducing irritation and promoting comfort for those with sensitive digestive systems.
Benefits of Eating Ghee Daily
If you consume ghee daily, it will improve your overall health and well-being. Here are some of the best health benefits of eating ghee daily-
- Boost vitamins levels
- Provides stable energy
- Improves digestion
- Good for hair and skin
- Skin and Hair Benefits
- Slow aging
How to Consume Ghee Daily?
You can use ghee instead of refined or mustard oil to add flavor and health benefits.
- Add a spoonful of ghee to warm beverages like hot milk or herbal tea to improve digestion and provide warmth.
- Add ghee to your daily meal, like spreading it on roti or toast or drizzling it over vegetables.
- Add ghee to your homemade desserts or baked goods to improve taste and health benefits.
- Choose grass-fed or organic ghee to ensure maximum health benefits and avoid additives or chemicals.
Are there any Side Effects of Ghee?
Well, there are no such side effects of eating ghee. But if you consume in excess, it might cause-
- Increased calorie intake—Ghee is high in calories, and consuming it excessively can lead to weight gain.
- Although ghee contains healthy fats, people with cardiovascular conditions should consult a healthcare professional to know the right amount before consuming.
- People with allergies should check the ingredients used in ghee before consuming.
However, to reap the health benefits of ghee, you should add it in moderation. You can add ghee to meals rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to balance its caloric contribution.
The Final Words
Whether you want to boost your energy levels, support brain health, nourish your skin, or add a rich, nutty flavor to your favorite dishes, ghee offers advantages for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Add ghee to your daily routine to achieve better health and vitality. You can add ghee to your favorite meals or consume it on an empty stomach to reap the benefits. Opt for pure, organic ghee to maximize its benefits and enjoy the rich, nourishing experience it brings to your table and your body.
Start with small portions, listen to your body, and enjoy the journey to better health with every golden spoonful!