India has been known for its rich dairy culture since ages. The cow is a sacred animal that’s honored in India, if not worshipped. Dairy products have always been an integral part of Indian food culture and diet. Ghee has been used in the Indian kitchen since ages and it is hard to imagine a kitchen without the presence of ghee in it.
With the current trend of taking the vegan path, there is a rise in the misconception that milk and milk products are not meant for human consumption or are harmful to the human body.
Ayurveda agrees that factory farming and artificial ways of producing and maintaining cattle are harmful and cause problems with the dairy products as well, but says that traditional dairy farming methods and certain native breeds can be used to counter these. Other than that, milk can be a very powerful diet supplement and medicine.
- Ayurveda recommends cow products for Vata and Pitta disorders. The milk from buffalo is slightly kapha-increasing so in such cases, goat milk is advised instead of cow and buffalo milk.
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- A variety of medicated ghees (ghritam) are prepared from cow ghee. Their benefits vary from strengthening the mind and nervous system, improving digestive power to nourishing the reproductive system in females.
- In the original texts of Ayurveda, cow milk has been described as an “elixir of youth”. It is nourishing, helps in building up dhatus (tissues, muscles, fat etc.), promotes growth and slows down the ageing process.
- Ghee and Milk form an essential part of Panchakarma treatments that aim at detoxifying the body and restoring the normalcy of the body tissues.
- Milk, when digested properly after following the rules of its consumption, nourishes all the tissues, balances all the emotions and promotes Ojas (the essence of all dhatus)
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Considering the many benefits of milk consumption mentioned in the classical texts of Ayurveda, it goes without saying that Ayurveda does not promote a vegan lifestyle but advises to consume dairy and dairy products upon following all the rules. In fact, the lack of dairy in the diet can lead to major health issues like joint and bone disorders, nutrition deficiency and falling sick more often that before due to weakened immune system.
Hence, it is important to understand that in Ayurveda the use of dairy is regulated by a set of rules. For Ayurveda, food is medicine and it is often also prescribed as a medicine. Ayurveda looks at the properties and effects of all foods and accordingly recommends them in specific doses for different seasons and purposes. Following an Ayurvedic regime thus prevents disease before it can even manifest.
DISCLAIMER: While we have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared here; it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. it is important to first always check with your own doctor before trying any medication, practice or suggestion from this site.
