If you buy ghee, then you've probably noticed the many different brands and types of ghee that are popping up on grocery shelves. You may have wondered, which kind of ghee is the best? While ghee in general is good, choosing a quality, ethically-made ghee makes a difference in terms of the derived benefits. Let’s take a look at some different types of ghee and what to look for when purchasing ghee.

Types of Ghee: What To Consider

Here's what you should consider when selecting ghee.

1. Grass-fed vs grain-fed - Butter from pasture fed cows are both nutritionally superior and better tasting than that of grain fed. Grass fed milk also has a higher omega 3 fatty acid content as compared the milk of grain fed cows and higher amounts of heart healthy conjugated linoleic acid (CLA).
2. Type of cow - There has been a bit of buzz lately about A2 versus A1 milk protein. Ghee comes from milk and most conventional ghee is made from milk with predominantly A1 protein. That is, milk from Jersey, Holstein Friesian, Ayrshire, and British Short Horn cattle. On the other hand, ghee from A2 cattle, such as Gir and Desi, contain easier to digest proteins and are considered to have spiritual benefits.
3. Cultured ghee - Ayurveda says that ghee which beings with fermented milk is better for digestion and healthier.
4. Ethical treatment of cows - According to Ayurveda, cows which are free-range and milked only on their own accord are much better for us. That's because the treatment of the cows has an effect on the quality of the milk produced.
5. Herbal infusions - ⁠Ghee can also be infused with herbs for additional health benefits. For instance, Ayurvedic practitioners often prescribe ghee mixed with herbs specific for detoxification and balancing. This type of Ghruta, known as Tikta Ghruta, may include herbs like, Neem, Kutki, Kalmegha, Bhumyamalaki, Turmeric, Daruharidra, Karella (bitter melon) and Musta among many others.

Best Type of Ghee

Though most ghee is good for you, the best type of ghee is Ghruta. Ghruta is made from the cultured milk of free-range, grass fed Indian A2 Gir cows and is handcrafted according to Ayurvedic traditions. Authentic Ghruta is always made from sacred cows that are treated with kindness and respect. You can find authentic Ghruta ghee in the PIOR Living shop!

Greta Kent-Stoll is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (NAMA), as well as a writer, editor, and Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher. She is the co-owner of Iyengar Yoga Asheville.