As one of the most important substances in Ayurveda, ghee is renowned for its healing and health promoting qualities. But if you haven’t taken it before, you might be wondering if it’s safe for you to consume. Overall, yes — but there are a few ghee contraindications you should know about.

Ghee Contraindications

Ghee offers many health benefits and is generally considered safe for most people, including children and expectant mothers. 

However, there are certain groups of people who may wish to limit ghee (or at least speak with a medical professional before eating it). Here are some of the ghee contraindications to be aware of.

People with Digestive Issues

If you have a history of digestive issues, you might experience gastrointestinal discomfort like bloating, diarrhea, or stomach cramps if eating ghee (or any fat) in excess. That said, ghee has been shown to improve digestion and gut health in moderation. Ghee contains high levels of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that aids the absorption of nutrients and promotes good bacteria in the stomach. 

People with Dairy Allergies or Lactose Intolerance

The process of making ghee removes most of the lactose (a milk sugar), whey, casein and other milk solids, but some individuals with dairy allergies or sensitivities may still experience reactions. 

People with Heart Health Concerns

When taken in moderation, ghee is actually shown to help lower your chances of heart disease; however, if you have a heart health concern, you may want to consult with a qualified practitioner to learn the best diet practices, including healthy fat consumption, for your health.

Ayurvedic Contraindications with Ghee

In moderate doses, Ayurveda says ghee is suitable for all people. However, as an unctuous and oily substance, it can increase the qualities of Kapha dosha (heaviness, lethargy, etc.). Therefore, people with excess Kapha should limit the use of ghee. Ayurveda also warns against the use of ghee if one is struggling with excess toxicity. 

The Importance of Quality Ghee

Not all ghee is the same. To reap the most health benefits, you'll want to find high quality ghee. Here are two major factors that affect the quality of ghee:

1. The best ghee comes from free-range, grass-fed cows because the cows are allowed to eat and graze as they please, resulting in healthier milk
2. According to Ayurveda, the process of making ghee should begin with fermentation to culture the raw milk. This step enhances the ghee with more medicinal benefits.

Learn more about different types of ghee. 

How to Use Ghee

When consuming ghee, it’s advisable to eat high-quality ghee, like Ghruta, which is generally healthier, purer, and more complete than regular ghee. 

However, eating ghee isn’t the only way to use it. There are many other ways to experience the benefits of ghee, including: 

• Nasya (or applying ghee to the nasal passages)
• Netra tarpana (or treating the eyes with ghee)
• Abhyanga (or self-massage)
• Moisturizing the skin
• Helping with the healing of scars, burns, and wounds
• Oil pulling
• Candle making

Curious to try it for yourself? Check out PIOR Living’s Ghruta. Our authentic Ghruta comes from free-range, grass-fed Indian Gir cows and is handcrafted according to ancient Ayurvedic traditions.