Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ghee, a type of clarified butter, has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Indian cooking. In Ayurveda, ghee is believed to support the digestive system, including the small intestines, by lubricating the intestinal walls and enhancing the absorption of nutrients. It is also considered to help balance digestive fire ("Agni"), which is thought to be essential for proper breakdown and assimilation of food. Traditional texts describe ghee as soothing for inflammation in the gut and as a carrier ("anupana") for herbal medicines to reach deeper tissues, including those of the intestines.

From a scientific standpoint, there is limited direct evidence supporting the specific benefit of ghee for the small intestine. Ghee is rich in short-chain and medium-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate, which is known to nourish colonocytes (cells lining the colon) and may have anti-inflammatory properties. However, most research focuses on butyrate’s effects in the colon rather than the small intestine. While some animal and in vitro studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory and gut barrier-supporting roles for ghee, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Thus, the primary justification for using ghee to support the small intestines comes from traditional practices rather than strong scientific evidence.

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