GHEE for Lifelong Health and Wellness
By Eden Tosch T
he classical Indian medical science of Ayurveda tells us that human life can be divided into three phases; Kapha, Pitta and Vata, which indicate what qualities will be dominant in different stages of our lives. Kapha quali- ties are primary in youth: moisture, coolness, smoothness, stability or durability, and slow, steady growth. The middle part of our life is dominated by action and accomplish- ment signified by Pitta. The fiery qualities of Pitta include sharpness and penetration during this critical and analyti- cal phase. Fluidity and heat in the body and mind domi- nate in order to fulfill the responsibilities of midlife. These qualities slowly give way to Vata as we age; the body be- comes colder, dryer and rougher. The mind becomes less steady and the memory loses its tenacity and accuracy. Fortunately, Ayurveda has much to teach about ag- ing and how to mitigate the destructive capacity of Vata. We can balance roughness with softness, coldness with warmth, instability with stability, dryness with moisture, and the aging of tissues with the regenerating quality of easily digestible nourishment. Find these qualities in a food, treatment, or activity and you will have a corrective for aging.
Ghee is one easy “cure” that balances the effects of age. Ghee is the pure oil refined from milk. It is ideal for treating instability in the mind and body, as it is very stable and not spoiled by heat or time. Ghee is nourish- ing, yet easy to digest, and can be used internally and externally as a food or a medicine to moisten, lubricate, preserve and heal the tissues. For centuries, it has been considered to be excellent for eyesight and reproductive vitality, great for the complexion and voice and useful in treating all problems caused by Vata and Pitta excesses. Plus, it tastes fantastic!
Eden Tosch has three years of classical Ayurveda educa- tion at Kerala Ayurveda Academy in Foster City;, Shubham Ayurveda in Fremont; and Pancha Karma training at Pur- narvasu Ayurved in Pune, India. Her office is in the Laurel District of Oakland; for more information, email Eden@
EdenAyurveda.com or visit
EdenAyurveda.com. See ad, page 29.
natural awakenings May 2011 21
DATE DATES To preserve or replenish your Ojas (your deepest physical essence) try this easy, caramel-y treat. Have one a day on an empty stomach. They’re especially nice when shared with someone special.
You will need: 1 clean, dry, sealable, glass pint jar, such as a Mason jar 2 cups whole dates 2 cups ghee, melted 1/2 tsp whole fennel seed 10 saffron threads
Pit the dates carefully. Place fennel and saffron in the jar, then add dates. Pour the melted ghee over the top so that all dates are covered. Close the jar and and shake a few times until contents are thor- oughly mixed. Place on a warm dark shelf (don’t re- frigerate!) and let the mixture meld for three months or more for best effects.
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