What Do You Do with Donkey Milk? Exploring its Ancient and Modern Uses

January 7, 2026 •

2 min read

Legend has it that Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, bathed daily in donkey milk to preserve her renowned beauty. The ancient beauty secret is making a modern-day comeback, with many people asking: what do you do with donkey milk in the 21st century? From luxurious skincare products to nutritional supplements, this unique milk has a surprising array of applications.

Quick Summary

Donkey milk is used in cosmetics for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties and consumed as a nutritional supplement, especially for those with cow milk protein allergies. Its applications range from luxury soaps and creams to food products like powdered milk, capitalizing on its unique composition.

Key Points

Cosmetic Ingredient: Used in skincare for moisturizing, anti-aging, and soothing effects.
Hypoallergenic Alternative: Suitable for those with cow milk protein allergies.
Immune System Booster: Contains antimicrobial enzymes like lysozyme and lactoferrin.
Digestive Health: Easy to digest, beneficial for sensitive stomachs.
Nutritional Content: Rich in vitamins (especially Vitamin C), minerals, and fatty acids.
Culinary Applications: Can be used in specialty food items like cheese and ice cream.
Historical Significance: Associated with Cleopatra for its skin benefits.

From Ancient Beauty Rituals to Modern Skincare

Donkey milk's most famous use dates back to ancient Egypt, where it is said that Queen Cleopatra maintained her smooth and youthful skin by bathing in it. Modern science supports the milk's benefits for skin health due to its rich vitamin and fatty acid content.

Today, donkey milk is valued in cosmetics for its moisturizing, anti-aging, and soothing effects. Its vitamins and essential fatty acids nourish and protect the skin. Key benefits include:

Intense Hydration: Proteins and fatty acids provide deep moisture.
Anti-Aging Effects: Antioxidants and fatty acids help regenerate skin and reduce wrinkles.
Gentle Exfoliation: Lactic acid helps remove dead skin cells for a radiant complexion.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pH is close to human skin, making it gentle for conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Donkey Milk Products for Skincare

Donkey milk is used in various skincare products:

Soaps: Known for creamy lather and softening effects.
Creams and Lotions: Hydrate, soothe, and rejuvenate.
Face Masks: Provide concentrated nutrients.
Shampoos: Used to nourish scalp and hair.

Nutritional Applications of Donkey Milk

Donkey milk has historical medicinal use, notably by Hippocrates. Its composition is similar to human breast milk, making it a valuable alternative for certain diets.

Cow Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA): A well-tolerated, hypoallergenic substitute due to low casein and high whey protein.
Boosts Immunity: Contains lysozyme and lactoferrin with antimicrobial properties.
Supports Digestive Health: Easily digestible, benefiting those with sensitive stomachs.
Cardiovascular Health: Unsaturated fatty acids and potential anti-hypertensive properties may help heart health.

Culinary Uses of Donkey Milk

Donkey milk has a mild, sweet flavor and can be used in sweet and savory dishes. It can be consumed raw (where permitted) or used in products like cheese, powdered milk, and ice cream.

Comparison Table: Donkey Milk vs. Cow Milk


Feature	Donkey Milk	Cow Milk
Protein Content	Lower (approx. 1.5-1.8 g/100mL), with higher whey protein.	Higher (approx. 3.1-3.8 g/100mL), with dominant casein.
Fat Content	Significantly lower (approx. 0.3-1.8%) and easily digestible.	Higher (approx. 3.5-3.9%) and creamy.
Lactose Content	Higher (approx. 5.8-7.4%) and closer to human milk.	Lower (approx. 4.6-4.9%).
Allergenicity	Hypoallergenic and well-tolerated by those with CMPA.	A common allergen due to high casein and beta-lactoglobulin levels.
Vitamin C	Extremely high (up to 60x more than cow milk).	Very low.
Enzymes	High levels of lysozyme and lactoferrin.	Low levels of lysozyme.
Production	Low yield (approx. 1 liter/day), difficult to find, high cost.	High yield, widely available, low cost.

Conclusion: The Timeless Value of Donkey Milk

Donkey milk's value spans centuries, from ancient baths to modern science. Despite its limited availability and high cost, it is significant in premium skincare and niche nutritional markets. It offers a solution for sensitive skin and hypoallergenic needs. Its legacy continues to grow, blending history with verified benefits. It is available in various forms like fresh milk, cosmetics, and powders.

For more detailed scientific information, research is available in journals such as Frontiers in Nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it's safe for consumption and a traditional nutritional source. It's a hypoallergenic alternative for cow milk protein allergies due to its similarity to human milk.

High cost is due to limited availability and lower yield compared to cow milk.

Yes, its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties can benefit conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Vitamins and fatty acids moisturize and regenerate skin.

It contains antioxidants and fatty acids that protect cells and promote regeneration, reducing wrinkles.

Its mild, sweet taste makes it suitable for various culinary uses, substituting cow's milk in recipes.

It can be pasteurized or freeze-dried into powder for cosmetics, food, and supplements.

Its similar composition makes it a good substitute. However, it's lower in fat and calories and may need supplementation for infants.