Nutritional and Rasayana Properties of Ksheer and Ghrit: An Evidence-Based Perspective

Abstract

Background: In Ayurveda, Ahara (diet) is the primary pillar of health, and certain foods are elevated to the status of Aushadha (medicine). Among these, Ksheer (milk) and Ghrit (clarified butter) are revered not just for their nutritional value (Poshakarta) but as supreme Rasayanas (rejuvenators) that promote longevity, intelligence, and vitality.

Objective: This article aims to conduct a deep textual analysis of the properties of Ksheer and Ghrit as described in the Brihatrayee (the great trio of Ayurvedic texts), synthesize their postulated mechanisms of action, and correlate these ancient insights with contemporary scientific understanding.

Methods: A qualitative review of the classical Ayurvedic texts—Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya—was performed to compile descriptions of Ksheer and Ghrit. Their Rasa (taste), Guna (qualities), Virya (potency), Vipaka (post-digestive effect), and Prabhava (unique potency) were analyzed. Their roles in Snehana (oleation) and Rasayana therapies were explored. These findings were then interpreted through the lens of modern nutritional biochemistry and pharmacology.

Results: The Samhitas uniformly describe Ksheer as Jeevana (life-giving), Svarya (voice-promoting), and Ojavardhaka (augmenting the essence of immunity). Ghrit is extolled as Ayushya (life-promoting), Medhya (intellect-promoting), and Yogavahi (a catalytic vehicle that carries the properties of herbs to all tissues). Modern science confirms that milk provides a complete profile of bioavailable nutrients and bioactive immunoglobulins. Ghrit contains butyric acid and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which demonstrate anti-inflammatory, gut-health-promoting, and neuroprotective activities, providing a mechanistic basis for its traditional Rasayana and Medhya claims.

Conclusion: The profound Ayurvedic understanding of Ksheer and Ghrit as vital, intelligent substances finds resonance in modern science. Their classification as Rasayanas is not metaphorical but is grounded in a sophisticated paradigm of how specific fats and nutrients interact with human physiology to promote systemic nourishment, protect against decay, and enhance the efficacy of herbal synergies. This convergence validates their continued relevance in preventive and promotive healthcare.