Ghee is a type of clarified butter. It’s more concentrated in fat than butter, as its water and milk solids have been removed.
It has been used in Indian and Pakistani cultures for thousands of years. The term comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “sprinkled.” Ghee was created to prevent butter from spoiling during warm weather.
In addition to cooking, it’s used in the Indian alternative medicine system Ayurveda, in which it’s known as ghrita.
Given that its milk solids have been removed, ghee does not require refrigeration and can be kept at room temperature for several weeks. In fact, like coconut oil, it may become solid when kept at cold temperatures.
SUMMARY
Ghee is a type of clarified butter that’s stable at room temperature. It has been used in Indian cooking and Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times.
Ghee and butter have similar but not identical nutrient profiles. Compared to butter, ghee may contain more fat but contains no lactose.
Per the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, if you have a casein allergy you should avoid both butter and ghee. People with intolerances should be fine consuming ghee since the lactose and casein amounts are so low (3).
Culinary uses
Butter and ghee are rich in saturated fatty acids, which can handle high temperatures without becoming damaged.
Heating ghee also appears to produce much less of the toxic compound acrylamide than heating vegetable and seed oils.
In fact, one study found that soybean oil produced more than 10 times as much acrylamide as ghee when each was heated to 320°F (160°C) (4Trusted Source).
Furthermore, ghee has a high smoke point, which is the temperature at which fats become volatile and begin to smoke.
Its smoke point is 485°F (250°C), which is substantially higher than butter’s smoke point of 350°F (175°C). Therefore, when cooking at very high temperatures, ghee has a distinct advantage over butter.
However, while ghee is more stable at high heat, butter may be more suitable for baking and cooking at lower temperatures because of its sweeter, creamier taste.
SUMMARY
Ghee and butter have similar nutritional profiles, but ghee may be a better choice for those with lactose or casein sensitivities. While ghee is typically better for high temperature cooking, butter has a sweeter taste that may be more suitable for baking.
Thanks to its impressive nutrient profile, ghee has been associated with several health benefits.
Here are a few of the potential benefits of ghee:
Boosts vitamin A intake. Ghee can help ramp up your intake of vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin that’s important for maintaining eye health, skin health, immune function, and more (5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).
Could support heart health. Ghee is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help decrease inflammation and protect against heart disease (7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source).
SUMMARY
Ghee is rich in important nutrients like vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, and conjugated linoleic acid. It may also help reduce gut inflammation and support heart health.
People’s responses to saturated fat intake are highly variable.
Those whose LDL (bad) cholesterol levels tend to increase in response to high saturated fat intake may want to limit their ghee or butter intake to 1–2 tablespoons per day.
Another concern is that during the production of ghee at high heat, its cholesterol may become oxidized. Oxidized cholesterol is linked to an increased risk of several diseases, including heart disease (10Trusted Source).
According to one older analysis, ghee contains oxidized cholesterol but fresh butter does not (11Trusted Source).
Consuming an excess amount of ghee can lead to increase weight gain and increase risk for obesity. Also, consuming excess saturated fat can increase risk for heart disease and stroke (12Trusted Source).
SUMMARY
The potential adverse effects of ghee include increased LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and the formation of oxidized cholesterol during its production.
Information courtesy of Healthline.com
Click the link below for a simple recipe on How to Make Ghee
[2] Ye, X., Bishop, A. M., Reidy, J. A., Needham, L. L., & Calafat, A. M. (2006, December). Parabens as Urinary Biomarkers of Exposure in Humans. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1764178/
Paul Fassais a contributing staff writer for REALfarmacy.com. His pet peeves are the Medical Mafia’s control over health and the food industry and government regulatory agencies corruption. Paul’s contributions to the health movement and global paradigm shift are well received by truth seekers
About two weeks ago, I wrote an article about coconut oil an awesome tropical oil with many health benefits.
A few people commented that they use coconut oil for something called ‘Oil Pulling’ which is kind of like using an oil as mouthwash.
Apparently, there are quite a few studies that support this process and a lot of people on blogs and discussion boards swear by it.
I have now been doing this every morning for about 10 days and I am impressed.
What is Oil Pulling and How Does it Work?
Oil pulling has been used for thousands of years as an Indian folk remedy.
It involves putting about a tablespoon of oil in your mouth, then swishing it around your teeth for 10-20 minutes.
There are thousands of different types of bacteria in the mouth. Some of them are friendly, others are not.
Certain bacteria can cause harm, such as Streptococcus Mutans, which is the main culprit behind plaque buildup, gingivitis and cavities.
The bacteria in the mouth create a “biofilm” on the teeth a thin layer that they use to adhere to the surface. This is what we know as “plaque.”
Having some plaque on your teeth is normal, but if it gets out of hand it can cause all sorts of problems.
The way oil pulling works is simple. When you swish the oil around your mouth, the bacteria “get stuck” in it and dissolve in the liquid oil.
Basically, you remove a large amount of the bacteria and plaque in your mouth each time you do this.
I Personally Prefer Coconut Oil
Traditionally, the Indians used other oils such as sesame oil or sunflower oil.
Oil pulling should work with pretty much any oil you choose.
I prefer coconut oil because Lauric Acid (about half of the fats in coconut oil) is proven to be antimicrobial it can kill bacteria, viruses and fungi (1, 2).
The taste of coconut oil is also fairly pleasant compared to other oils. I found it rather disgusting at first having my mouth full of oil, but I got used to it after a few days.
Now let’s look at a few studies on oil pulling
Oil Pulling and Streptococcus Mutans
Streptococcus Mutans is one of the main bacteria in the mouth and a key player in plaque buildup and tooth decay.
In a study published in 2008 with 20 adolescent boys, oil pulling (using sesame oil) caused a reduction in the number of Streptococcus Mutans in the plaque in as little as 2 weeks.
It was not as effective as a Chlorhexidine mouthwash, but much cheaper and MUCH less nasty.
Oil Pulling Can Reduce Plaque and Gingivitis
Gingivitis is caused by inflammation of the gums and happens when the immune system starts attacking the bacteria in the plaque.
Another study compared oil pulling and chlorhexidine in adolescents with plaque-induced gingivitis. Both oil pulling and chlorhexidine mouthwash were effective against gingivitis.
Oil Pulling Can Reduce Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis, is in many cases (not all) caused by the smell of chemicals and gases produced by bacteria in the mouth.
It makes sense that if you get rid of some of these bacteria, you reduce bad breath.
In a third study of 20 adolescents, oil pulling therapy significantly reduced all markers for bad breath and was just as effective as chlorhexidine mouthwash (5).
How to Oil Pull
Oil pulling is incredibly simple and effective.
Here’s how to do it:
Put about a tablespoon of oil in your mouth.
Swish the oil around your mouth for about 10-20 minutes.
Spit out the oil, then brush your teeth.
If you use coconut oil like me, then you may have to chew on the oil for a few seconds for it to melt, because it is solid at room temperature.
It is best to do this on an empty stomach, before you brush your teeth.
I prefer to do it while I take a shower in the morning.
I put the oil in my mouth, swish it around while in the shower and try to “push” and “pull” the oil between my teeth.
When I get out of the shower I spit out the oil, rinse my mouth with water and brush my teeth.
There is no need to use a lot of force here, if doing this causes pain in your facial muscles then just relax a bit. Try using less oil next time and don’t swish it around too forcefully.
It’s important to spit out the oil. You don’t want to swallow it because it is full of bacteria and nasty things.
What to Expect
I’ve been doing this for about 10 days now.
I’ve definitely noticed that my breath is fresher and my teeth look a lot cleaner both whiter and more shiny.
I’ve never had any dental problems, but I can see how this could have benefits for people that have them.
There are a lot of wild claims out there about oil pulling and how it “pulls” toxins out of your bloodstream. I really don’t think that makes a lot of sense.
However, oil pulling IS effective at reducing the harmful bacteria in your mouth and improving oral and dental health.
I have to say that I am really surprised at how effective this is. I plan to continue doing this for a long time.
The balance in life is essential, and this is also true about the diet you consume, and the pH levels in your body.
Namely, in order to maintain health and prevent numerous ailments, the body needs to have balanced ph levels. After the consumption of acid-forming foods, the body releases alkaline-high minerals, like magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus, in the attempt to balance the pH level of the blood.
Therefore, if our diet is poor in these important, alkaline-forming foods, the body will need t use the minerals in our organs, teeth, and bones, and thus lead to exhaustion, and a weakened immune system, making us more susceptible to diseases.
Acid-forming foods are meats, fish, most grains, fast foods, beans, dairy products, and processed foods. Hence, a balanced diet when it comes to Ph consists of 20-40% acid-forming foods and 60-80% alkaline-forming foods.
Here below we reveal some of the best alkaline-forming foods, and you should consider incorporating them into your daily diet in order to strengthen your system and avoid numerous health issues.
Ripe Bananas
The consumption of unripe bananas may lead to acidity in the stomach, constipation, and poor nutrient absorption. On the other hand, ripe bananas with brown spots will provide numerous minerals, vitamins, and will alkalize the body.
Asparagus
Being one of the most potent alkaline-forming foods, with a pH of 8.5, asparagus is also loaded with minerals, vitamins, water, fiber, and antioxidants.
Avocados
Despite their delicious taste, their pH level is 8.0, so they effectively neutralize acidic foods. They can be added to your salad, guacamole, sandwiches, and much more!
Broccoli
It is a highly alkalizing food, high in important nutrients and fiber, and it will maintain the alkalinity of your body, and will keep you full longer.
Garlic
Spice your food up and neutralize acidic foods, like eggs, cheese, meat, and fish. In this way, you will also consume numerous nutrients and fiber.
Almonds
Almonds and almond milk are also one of the best alkaline foods, and they will enhance the function of the brain, help digestion, reduce cholesterol levels and promote a healthy balance in the body.
Lemons
Even though lemons have an acidic taste, they are powerful alkalizing substances. You can squeeze some lemon juice or add a few slices in your bottle of water and drink it all day long.
Watermelon
With a pH of 9.0, watermelon is also deservedly on this list. It is loaded with minerals, vitamins, and water, which support the balance of electrolytes. Moreover, watermelons are high in fiber, so they are great for detoxification of the body.
Organic Papaya
Papayas promote a healthy digestion, and they are rich in minerals, water, vitamins, and fiber, so they enhance the overall health. They are also a powerful alkaline-forming food.
Cayenne Pepper
Despite its numerous health benefits, it is a potent alkaline-forming ingredient, with a pH of 8.5. Moreover, it lowers blood pressure, detoxifies the body, improves brain function, and stimulates circulation.
People across the country recently became captivated by the ‘Ice Bucket Challenge” to raise money for ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) aka Lou Gehrig’s Disease, awareness, but what if there was a simple solution available right now to help sufferers?
While there is currently a lack of “official scientific research” on using coconut oil to heal symptoms of degenerative neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and ALS, there is a ton of anecdotal evidence that it really can have a dramatic effect on improving the quality of life of many people, or even to reverse these diseases entirely as part of a regular routine.
Coconut oil is seen as so promising for these patients that a $250,000 grant was given by a private donor to the Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute in Florida recently to study its beneficial effects.
Doctor Sees Incredible Changes with ALS Thanks to Coconut Oil
Dr. Mary Newport’s husband Steve suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease, so much so that he could barely make a simple drawing of a clock when asked to do so, as the picture below shows.
Mary Newport’s husband Steve drew the following pictures of a clock; at right is the one drawn after taking coconut oil for Alzheimer’s symptoms. PHOTO: Tampabay.com
But after just two weeks of being given coconut oil by his wife, Steve’s symptoms began to dissipate and “the fog was lifted,” as Dr. Mary Newport told Tampabay.com.
Since then, Mary Newport has gone on to author the book ‘Alzheimer’s Disease: What If There Was a Cure?’ and to blog about coconut oil, neurological disease healing, and other holistic health topics.
She posted the story of one person who was diagnosed with ALS in 2007, and since then has battled the disease with the help of coconut oil and a magnesium chloride solution (at least 2 tablespoons of coconut oil per day is recommended if not more; Dr. Bruce Fife recommends 6-8).
In her personal blog on the subject, Mary details the changes that have taken place in the person’s ALS thanks to these supplements, including the following:
-Gained the ability to raise her toes in front of her foot upward and to tap her right foot along with music
-Normal feelings restored to her right leg
–Increased muscle strength and size in the her upper right leg, as well as her left leg
–She now has the ability to pivot her right foot forward and inward
-Bruising in her right ankle has been reduced
…and much more. The full list of changes they’ve experienced since adding coconut oil and Mg chloride to her routine can be viewed here. These changes may seem relatively minor but just imagine how difficult everyday life tasks could be without them.
Coconut oil is thought to help sufferers of neurological diseases by providing an alternate source of fuel to the brain, ketones, which helps fill the gaps when not enough glucose is being supplied or absorbed by the brain for use as fuel. Coconut oil has also been shown to aid metabolism, assist in killing viruses, and to be excellent for cooking at high temperatures compared with vegetable oils that are often genetically modified and not capable of standing up to high temperatures safely.
Man Reverses ALS with Coconut Oil in Video
Butch Matchlin, an American man who lives in Mexico City, was recently one of three people suffering from neurological diseases profiled by CBN for a segment on how they’ve been healing since adding coconut oil to their daily routines.
In the video below, Matchin demonstrates how he is now able to pick up objects, such as the snow globe you’ll see in the video, and fully grasp them with ease in a way he couldn’t in the past. Matchlin has been suffering from ALS for over five years, but as shown in the video (from 2013), his symptoms have reversed. A report on coconut oil for use in such diseases was seen by over 5 million people on CBN’s website.
You can help spread the message by sharing this post and tagging it #ALSicebucketchallenge on Facebook to get the word out and help more ALS sufferers (disclaimer: this post is for informational purposes and not medical purposes). The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge is currently being used to raise awareness for research, but this potential natural solution is one that more people should know about.
Watch the video below to find out more (and please note that I personally don’t recommend microwaving the coconut oil at all).
P.S. This was shared on March Against Monsanto, a non-religious movement that welcomes people of all faiths.
