Butter oil

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Other names for Butter oil

high vitamin butter oil

Synopsis of Butter oil

History

Butter oil, also known as clarified butter or ghee in various cultures, has a rich history of use in traditional medicine spanning centuries. In Ayurveda—the ancient Indian system of healing—ghee has long been revered as a “rasayana,” or rejuvenator, believed to promote longevity, vitality, and overall well-being. Traditional Ayurvedic remedies employed butter oil both internally and externally: it was consumed to support digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and strengthen the immune system, while topical applications soothed burns, wounds, and inflammation. Its unique profile, rich in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and butyric acid, helped nourish tissues and support cellular healing.

Butter oil has also been utilized as a carrier in herbal combinations. Its lipophilic nature allows it to extract, preserve, and deliver the active constituents of medicinal herbs effectively. In both Indian and Middle Eastern traditions, herbal infusions in butter oil were common, with botanicals such as turmeric, ashwagandha, and holy basil blended to enhance their therapeutic impact. These combinations were used for a variety of purposes—from calming the mind and promoting restful sleep to supporting joint health and reducing inflammation.

Throughout history, butter oil’s positive contributions have been widely celebrated. Its inclusion in traditional remedies underscores not only its nutritional value, but also its role in amplifying the healing effects of herbs, making it a cherished ingredient in natural medicine cabinets across the world.

Traditional and scientific validation

Butter oil, also known as anhydrous milk fat or clarified butter oil, has a rich history of use in traditional diets, particularly in regions where dairy products are a staple. Historically, ancient cultures valued butter oil for its concentrated energy and fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. Notably, Dr. Weston A. Price, a pioneering nutrition researcher in the early 20th century, documented the use of butter oil in conjunction with cod liver oil, observing potential benefits for dental and skeletal health among traditional populations.

From a scientific perspective, butter oil is recognized for its high content of short- and medium-chain fatty acids, as well as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and butyric acid. These components have been associated in some studies with anti-inflammatory and metabolic benefits. For example, CLA has demonstrated potential in supporting immune function and healthy body composition, while butyric acid may contribute to gut health by serving as a primary energy source for colon cells.

Despite these promising attributes, clinical studies specifically examining butter oil in human nutrition remain limited. Most existing research focuses on its individual components or on dairy fat in general. While the nutritional profile of butter oil suggests it may play a beneficial role in supporting overall health, further well-designed clinical trials are needed to substantiate its specific effects. Nonetheless, butter oil continues to be valued as a nutrient-dense ingredient in various nutritional products, contributing desirable flavor, texture, and essential fat-soluble nutrients.

Butter oil is used for these health conditions

Wounds and Sores (Traditional)

This ingredient is used to support these body systems

None

Products containing Butter oil

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.

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