Cow Ghee as a Functional Medicinal Substance: A Review of Its Chemistry and Pharmacological Properties

Cow ghee, or clarified butter, was traditionally used in Ayurveda for food and curative purposes. This form of ghee is said to be rich in antioxidants with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The peculiar ability of ghee to penetrate the skin facilitates the absorption of other agents used for healing. Considering its medical uses, ghee is one of the most precious substances in Ayurvedic medicine and serves as a base or carrier for many other medicinal formulations. Recent studies conducted scientifically have investigated further properties of cow ghee to serve as an Ayurvedic ointment base. Lesser-known forms of traditional base materials have been compared, including Ceto stearyl alcohol, stearic acid, glyceryl monostearate, paraffin wax, white beeswax, and wool fat. The preparations were checked according to international quality standards (ICH guidelines) and tested for formulation stability by examining parameters such as color, consistency, pH, and solubility. This review article focuses on chemical composition, isolation and characterization of bioactive fractions, pharmacological activity and mechanism of action, comparative features – cow and buffalo ghee, regulatory and safety aspects as per FSSAI of cow ghee.