The process of preparing Shata Dhauta Ghrita, or 100 times washed ghee, is a revered tradition in Ayurveda that creates a luxurious, lightweight cream from simple clarified butter. The repeated washing purifies and aerates the ghee, giving it a soft, silky texture that is highly absorbent and deeply moisturizes the skin without feeling greasy. This transformation enhances the ghee's therapeutic properties, making it an excellent natural remedy for a variety of skin concerns.
The Traditional Method: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making washed ghee is a labor-intensive but rewarding process that requires patience. The key is using high-quality, pure ghee and a traditional copper vessel for enhanced benefits.
Gather Your Supplies
- High-quality ghee: Preferably from grass-fed A2 cow's milk for optimal purity, but any pure cow ghee will work.
- Purified, ice-cold water: The cold temperature is crucial for the emulsification process.
- A copper vessel or bowl: A copper container is traditionally used to infuse the ghee with copper's skin-beneficial properties, though a steel bowl can be used as an alternative.
- A spoon or whisk: For mixing the ghee and water.
- Airtight glass jar: For storing the final cream.
The Washing Process
- Initial Scoop: Place one part of the room-temperature ghee into your copper bowl. Using a copper vessel is believed to enhance the anti-aging and antioxidant properties of the cream.
- Add Water: Pour in an equal amount of ice-cold purified water. The contrast in temperature helps facilitate the transformation.
- The Churning: Using a clean spoon or whisk, stir the mixture vigorously for 3–5 minutes. You can stir in a circular motion, clockwise and then counter-clockwise, to help combine the two substances. The ghee will start to absorb the water and turn a lighter color.
- Drain and Repeat: Carefully pour off the water that has separated from the ghee. It will look milky and cloudy as it carries away impurities.
- Repeat 100 Times: Repeat steps 2 through 4 a total of 100 times. With each wash, the ghee will become whiter, lighter, and fluffier. The texture will transform from a waxy solid into a creamy, whipped butter-like consistency.
Storing and Using Your Cream
After the final wash, transfer the fluffy, white cream into an airtight glass jar. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. The cream can be applied to the face and body as a deep moisturizer, especially effective for dry, sensitive, or inflamed skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It is gentle enough for daily use and can be used on babies.
Benefits of Washed Ghee for Skincare
Washed ghee has long been prized in Ayurvedic beauty rituals for its profound skin benefits. Its unique preparation process and nutrient profile contribute to a powerful healing and nourishing effect.
Deeply Hydrating
The repeated washing process splits the ghee's lipids into smaller particles, allowing it to penetrate up to seven layers of the skin, offering deep and long-lasting hydration. This is far more effective than many commercial moisturizers that only treat the skin's surface.
Soothes and Heals
Enriched with vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as fatty acids, washed ghee possesses anti-inflammatory properties that calm irritated skin and can help reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes. It provides relief from conditions like sunburn, rosacea, and eczema.
Anti-Aging Properties
By strengthening the skin's natural barrier and promoting cell regeneration, washed ghee can combat fine lines and wrinkles. It helps neutralize free radicals, which are a major cause of premature aging.
Natural and Gentle
Since it is made from just two natural ingredients, washed ghee is free from harmful chemicals, fragrances, and additives found in many commercial products, making it suitable even for the most sensitive skin types.
Comparison: Washed Ghee vs. Regular Ghee
To fully appreciate the transformation, it's helpful to compare the properties of regular ghee with its washed counterpart.
| Feature | Regular Ghee (unwashed) | Washed Ghee (Shata Dhauta Ghrita) |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Granular, buttery, oily | Creamy, soft, fluffy, whipped |
| Scent | Distinct, nutty ghee aroma | Subtly fragrant or almost odorless |
| Skin Absorption | Sits on the skin's surface; can feel greasy | Absorbs deeply and quickly; lightweight |
| Skin Penetration | Limited to surface layers | Penetrates all seven layers of the skin according to Ayurveda |
| Cooling Effect | Neutral to warm | Significantly cooling and soothing |
| Primary Use | Cooking, dietary supplement | Topical skincare, healing, moisturizing |
| Shelf Life | Can last for months or years | Typically lasts 3 to 12 months with proper storage |
Conclusion: The Ultimate DIY Ayurvedic Moisturizer
The process of preparing 100 times washed ghee, or Shata Dhauta Ghrita, is more than just a recipe; it is a ritual of purification that yields a powerful and deeply nourishing skin cream. With just high-quality ghee, ice-cold water, and patience, you can create a gentle yet effective moisturizer that can soothe irritated skin, fade scars, and provide intense hydration. Its unique ability to penetrate the skin deeply and its completely natural composition make it an exceptional alternative to chemical-laden products. Embrace this ancient wisdom and give your skin the pure, radiant care it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of using a copper vessel? A: Copper is traditionally believed to enhance the therapeutic properties of the ghee, infusing it with anti-aging and antioxidant qualities, though a steel bowl can be a substitute.
Q: How does the washing process change the ghee? A: The repeated washing purifies the ghee, splitting its lipids into smaller, more easily absorbed particles. This transforms the texture from heavy and oily to a light, fluffy, and deeply hydrating cream.
Q: Can I use store-bought ghee? A: Yes, but the quality of the final product depends on the quality of the starting ghee. For the best results, use high-quality, pure cow ghee, preferably A2, from a reputable source.
Q: How long does it take to wash the ghee 100 times? A: This is a time-consuming process that can take several hours, depending on how quickly you complete each wash and drain cycle. Many people find it meditative.
Q: Can I use a stand mixer to speed up the process? A: While some modern methods suggest using a mixer for some of the washing, the traditional process is done by hand. A stand mixer might simplify the churning but may not replicate the full traditional effect.
Q: How should I store the finished washed ghee cream? A: Store the cream in a clean, airtight glass jar in a cool, dry place. You can also refrigerate it for a more cooling effect on the skin.
Q: Is washed ghee suitable for oily or acne-prone skin? A: Yes, Shata Dhauta Ghrita is non-comedogenic and can be used sparingly on oily skin. It's known for its healing properties that can help with acne scars and inflammation, but a patch test is always recommended.
