Benefits of Ghee for skin

The yummy parathas and that delicious halwa that drip ghee can tempt anyone. Along with the temptation comes the hesitation to consume these. A lot of people feel guilty while adding ghee to their diet. Does ghee cause weight gain? What if it causes pimples? These are common questions about ghee that line up in our minds. 

Ghee, also known as clarified butter, is a common ingredient in Indian cuisine. This storehouse of nutrients has been the secret behind the young and flawless skin of our grandmas. Ghee is an excellent gift from mother Nature that provides us with uncountable health benefits. 

Ayurveda considers ghee as a healing substance loaded with nutrients. The benefits of ghee are listed in the ancient ayurvedic text, Sushruta Samhita. Rigveda also mentions the pure and sacred nature of ghee. Ghee has been a vital ingredient in our food for thousands of years. If consumed in the right way, apart from adding flavour and taste to the food, ghee also nourishes the body and provides immense benefits to our health. 

So, what is the right way to take ghee and how to use it for blemish-free, healthy, and glowing skin? This article takes you through the role of ghee in skincare. 
 

Nutritional  benefits of ghee
 

• Ghee is rich in Vitamin A,D, E and K.·       
• It is a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids. These are healthy fats that promote heart health and nourish the skin.
• Ghee also contains butyrate, a fatty acid that is known for its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. It promotes metabolism and overall gut health.
• Vitamin E in ghee has antioxidant properties that help in heart and skin health.
   

Benefits of ghee for skin

When it comes to skincare, ghee is a blessing. Appropriate usage of ghee combined with an active lifestyle is believed to be the key to flawless and glowing skin that looks fresh and young. Ghee comes as a natural and inexpensive skincare product. Apart from beautifying the skin externally, ghee addresses the cause of skin issues. Let us look at the benefits of ghee for our skin.
 1. Anti-aging properties

As a storehouse of essential vitamins A, E, and D and antioxidants, ghee is known to help maintain our skin's elasticity. Thus, it may reduce and prevent wrinkles on the skin and may help you look young.
 2. Moisturizes and hydrates the skin

Apart from adding ghee to your diet, external application of ghee also is believed to help in moisture retention for the skin. Massaging the body with ghee before bathing can nourish the skin and prevent skin dryness. A ghee massage can increase secretion of endorphins and peptides, improving skin health and slowing down aging. Daily application of ghee can help it penetrate the skin, deeper into the tissues.
 3. Adds glow to your skin

Regular consumption of ghee in moderate quantities is considered to enhance skin complexion and support brightening of the skin. You can find a natural shine in your clean, blemish-free skin. 
 4. Soothes the skin

A deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids may cause the skin to get dry and have an uneven tone. Consumption of ghee and application on the skin can soothe dry and allergy-prone skin. It also can reduce skin inflammation and rashes, making your skin look clear.
 5. Softens and brightens lips

Ghee is rich in antioxidants that act against pigmentation. Massaging your lips with ghee can help in reducing dark pigments on the lips and can help you regain your natural pink lips. 

Ghee definitely comes in handy during winters when your lips get dry and chapped. Apply a thin layer of ghee on dry and chapped lips before bedtime. It can soothe the lips, making them soft and supple. 
 6. Clears dark undereye circles 

Ghee can help in brightening and relaxing your eyes. Apply a thin coat of desi ghee on the tender under-eye region. Massage gently and leave it on overnight. Regular application  may clear dark circles and brighten your eyes.
 7. Removes toxins

Accumulated toxins are among the reasons behind skin problems. A clean colon leads to a healthy digestive system that leads to healthy skin. Butyric acid or butyrate in ghee supports regular bowel movement. A healthy digestive system means removal of toxins from the body. When the body gets rid of toxins, the skin would naturally glow and become spotless and wrinkle-free.
 

 Use of ghee

Ghee can be used in two ways:

• Include ghee in your diet
• Apply ghee on your skin externally
   

How to eat Ghee the right way

• Experts say that an average adult needs 2-3 teaspoons of ghee in a day.
• You can warm 5-10 ml of ghee and consume it in the morning on an empty stomach for better absorption.
• Adding a spoon of ghee to warm water, coffee or tea in the morning promotes metabolism and promotes gut health.
• Add ghee to your regular diet by adding it to rice or roti in moderate quantities.
   

How to apply Ghee on the face 

• There are several benefits of ghee for the face. Apply ghee directly on the lips and under-eye region to get rid of dark circles and dryness.
• Mix equal quantities of gram flour (besan) and ghee. You may adjust the consistency using water or a few drops of milk. Apply the face pack, leave it on till it dries, and wash off with cold water. Applying ghee on the face benefits the skin by brightening it and reducing dark spots.
• Mix desi ghee with water on a plate and mix them using circular motions. When this is done continuously, you get a fluffy white paste. As per Ayurveda, the paste made of ghee and water works wonders on the skin.

Conclusion

Ghee has innumerable benefits for our skin and overall health. Several studies prove that desi ghee, made from (grass-fed) cow milk, has the best nutrients and gives optimum results. However, use it moderately to reap the benefits. Excessive use of ghee will only have adverse effects. Use pure ghee the right way and flaunt your spotless skin!

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