Known as a traditional bliss, ghee has been used not just in cooking but in religious duties and offerings as well! Unlike refined oils, it is churned from the milk of cow or buffalo and is loaded with exceptional nutrients and health benefits. 

Considered one of the healthiest and most treasured milk products, Ghee has been a part of Indian traditional cooking for ages. Ayurveda acknowledges pure cow ghee as one of the most sattvic foods that can heal and nourish the body inside out. 

Be it body cleansing or relieving irregular bowel movements, ghee is capable of all. Various ayurvedic therapies use ghee as their key ingredient. This itself symbolizes the effectiveness of ghee in therapeutic application. 

Through this article, let’s understand the role of pure cow ghee in relieving one of the most common health concerns i.e. constipation. 

What is constipation?

Irregular or delayed bowel movement, commonly known as constipation is one of the leading health concerns, particularly amongst people in the age group 25 to 35 years. 

In medical terms, constipation is a painful condition characterized by hard stools, or dry stools, usually lesser than 3 times a week. Those dealing with constipation find it difficult to pass stool. This often leads to a gain in weight, irritability, mood swings, bloating, and loss of appetite. 

Untreated constipation can further worsen resulting in chronic medical conditions such as anal fissures, hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, etc. 

Despite the wholesome variety in the diet, India is one of the leading countries to report constipation cases every year! The situation can further worsen if it continues to be ignored and mistaken as a normal body phenomenon. 

What are the causes of constipation?

The uncomfortable or infrequent bowel movement can be caused due to a number of reasons, some of the most common include- 

  • Poor Diet – This is the leading cause of constipation. A diet low in soluble and insoluble fiber or roughage can drastically reduce bowel movement by reducing the body’s ability to excrete out unwanted waste and bind stools.
  • Age – Constipation can happen to anyone irrespective of age. However, people above 50 years are more prone to delayed bowel movements due to a decrease in the efficacy of the digestive system. 
  • Stress – Research studies claim that stress can cause or aggravate gastrointestinal symptoms including constipation, Such stress-related constipation is most common in the young generation. 
  • Poor Water Intake – Drinking less water can dehydrate the GUT, making the bowel movement painful and difficult. 
  • Lack of Physical Activity or Exercise – Sedentary lifestyle can weaken the metabolism and lead to conditions like bloating or constipation. 
  • Alcohol, Tobacco Consumption – Poor lifestyle habits like alcohol or cigarette consumption can inhibit the absorption of important nutrients in the GUT, resulting in constipation. 
  • Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, lactation, or related conditions can lead to hormonal changes that can impact the functioning of the GUT, leading to indigestion. 
  • Ignoring the Urge –  This is one of the important toilet lessons taught at 3 years of age. Holding back the urge to empty bowel movements can eventually lead to a condition wherein the natural urge dies away, leading to gas and constipation. 

 

Dietary Modifications Related to Constipation

Diet plays a crucial role in relieving constipation. Some of the important dietary modifications related to constipation include- 

Fit young woman holding a bowl of veggies and leafy greens along with almonds, avocados, glass of water, eggs, and seeds
  • Incorporating Green leafy Veggies- Green veggies contain a good amount of fiber, antioxidants, minerals, B-vitamins, and phytonutrients that help to strengthen the GUT, eliminate toxins, and regularise bowel movement.

    • Adding Fatty Acids (good fat) into the diet- Fatty acids are an important constituent of diet and are necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Incorporating good fat into the diet in the form of ghee, nuts, seeds, avocados, eggs, etc can help ease the digestive tract by lubricating the colon passage and making way for fecal matter. This not only relieves constipation but also strengthens the digestive tract by supplying essential nutrients. 
    • Staying Hydrated- Drinking a sufficient amount of water not only keeps the skin glowing but is also excellent for the digestive system. Water molecules naturally calm the irritated or inflamed veins in the colon. This helps to relieve constipation pushing the toxins and unwanted waste out of the body. 

     

    Role of Ghee in relieving constipation

    In a country like India, Ghee is offered as a religious offering. This itself symbolizes the efficacy and purity of ghee. Loaded with exceptional nutrients, ghee is nature’s boon. 

    Health experts suggest incorporating ghee for relieving a wide range of medical conditions, one of which is constipation. What makes ghee an incredible remedy is that it is one of the best sources of butyric acid (fatty acid) that is naturally great for supporting the health of the intestinal wall. 

    According to Ayurveda, the taseer of ghee works at balancing three doshas (Pitta, Vata, and Kapha). This helps to bring balance to the body’s internal organs and external environments. This equilibrium is essential for strengthening the GUT. This is why ghee helps to relieve digestion-related complaints like bloating, stomach ache, constipation, indigestion, etc. 

    Additionally, pure cow ghee works as a laxative that eases the intestinal tract, smoothening the fecal passage. This helps to relieve constipation or a delayed bowel movement in the most natural way. 

    Apart from being a lubricant, ghee is also important for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and, K all of which play an important role in boosting the digestion and body’s immunity. 

    how to use ghee for constipation?

    Since ancient times, people have relied on and trusted ghee, for managing a range of health ailments. Here’s a list of some of the ayurvedic time-tested ways of using ghee for relieving constipation- 

    young woman patting on her tummy feeling good
    1. Ayurveda suggests using pure desi ghee for cooking as one of the best ways of incorporating ghee. 

    2. Having a spoonful of ghee along with a glass of lukewarm water every morning, on an empty stomach, helps to cleanse the GUT and regularize bowel movements. 

    3. Massaging the navel or belly button with ½ teaspoon of pure ghee before bedtime helps to relieve pain associated with constipation.

    Wrapping Up

    More than 20% of the Indian population suffers from constipation. Ayurvedic expert suggests switching to desi cow ghee for relieving constipation as it boosts metabolism, and eases and cleanse the digestive tract. Loaded with good fat that helps to strengthen the colon and regulate bowel movement, desi ghee can alleviate constipation and is safe for people of all age groups. 

    Apart from ghee, other dietary and lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking/alcohol, reducing stress, staying hydrated, indulging in workouts, and eating a natural, organic diet can help to manage constipation successfully.