Why Bilona Ghee is too expensive?

Ghee, the clarified butter revered in Indian cuisine and Ayurveda, possesses a special variant known as Bilona Ghee. This golden elixir, steeped in tradition and believed to hold immense health benefits, is more than just a cooking fat; it’s a culinary and cultural heritage passed down through generations.

What is Bilona Ghee?

Unlike commercially produced ghee,

Bilona Ghee is crafted using the ancient “Bilona” method, meaning “churning pot.” This laborious process starts with the milk of indigenous breeds like Gir or Sahiwal cows, known for their A2 protein content.

The milk is fermented into curd in earthen pots, traditionally overnight under the moonlight. This curd is then hand-churned, usually by women within the community, using a wooden “mathani” in a “bilona” (pot).

The separated butter is then simmered gently on firewood, allowing impurities to settle and releasing the final golden, aromatic ghee.

A2 Bilona Ghee

A2 Bilona Ghee is a traditional type of ghee made from the milk of indigenous Indian cows, specifically those with the A2 beta-casein protein, which is considered easier to digest than the A1 protein found in many modern dairy breeds. Unlike mass-produced ghee, A2 Bilona Ghee is prepared using an ancient process called the bilona method, which involves curdling the milk and churning it by hand to separate butter from buttermilk. This butter is then slowly heated on a low flame to produce pure, nutrient-rich ghee.

The process is time-intensive but helps retain the essential vitamins and minerals in the ghee, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. This traditional method of making A2 Bilona Ghee enhances its health benefits, making it popular among those seeking wholesome, natural foods.

A2 Bilona Ghee is not only prized for its rich flavor and aroma but also for its health benefits. Known for improving digestion, boosting immunity, and supporting joint health, A2 Bilona Ghee has become a favorite in Ayurvedic and holistic wellness circles. Its high smoke point makes it suitable for cooking, while its unique nutritional profile also makes it an ideal choice for daily consumption in small amounts. A2 Bilona Ghee combines the best of tradition with health benefits for today’s wellness-conscious consumers.

Bilona Ghee Making Process

Bilona ghee is a traditional, high-quality ghee made using an ancient churning method. This process preserves the rich nutrients and flavor of ghee by following natural and slow procedures. Below is a step-by-step flowchart and explanation of how Bilona ghee is made.

Detailed Bilona Ghee-Making Process

1. Collect Raw Milk

Fresh milk is collected from cows, preferably from native Indian breeds, which are known for producing milk rich in A2 protein. This milk is the base ingredient for making Bilona ghee.

2. Boil the Milk

The milk is then slowly boiled to ensure it’s free from any pathogens and to concentrate its nutritional content. Boiling also enhances the flavor of the milk, which ultimately contributes to the rich taste of the final ghee.

3. Convert to Curd

The boiled milk is allowed to cool to a warm temperature. A natural starter culture (such as a small amount of curd) is added to initiate fermentation, turning the milk into curd. This step usually takes 8-12 hours, as it is done overnight for the best results.

4. Hand Churn the Curd

The curd is churned using a traditional wooden churner (known as a “bilona”) to separate the butter from the buttermilk. This is done manually, often in two directions—clockwise and counterclockwise—to create a smooth and even texture. Hand churning is a slower process, but it preserves the nutrients and flavor.

5. Extract Butter

The butter rises to the top during churning and is collected carefully. This freshly extracted butter is then separated from the buttermilk. The leftover buttermilk can be consumed separately as a healthy beverage.

6. Heat Butter to Obtain Ghee

The collected butter is slowly heated in a heavy-bottomed vessel on a low flame. This heating process causes the moisture to evaporate and the milk solids to settle at the bottom. The clear golden liquid that forms on top is pure ghee. Slow heating is essential to prevent burning and to enhance the ghee’s aroma.

7. Filter and Store Ghee

Once the ghee is fully clarified, it is filtered to remove any remaining milk solids. The ghee is then allowed to cool and is stored in airtight containers to retain its freshness and flavor.

Bilona Ghee Price

The current price of Bilona ghee can vary widely depending on the brand, region, and the specific type of A2 cow’s milk used. Generally, Bilona ghee is priced higher than regular ghee due to its traditional preparation method and the use of pure A2 cow milk from indigenous breeds like Gir and Sahiwal.

Here are some common price ranges for Bilona ghee in India:

• 500 ml: Prices typically range from ₹700 to ₹1,500 (INR), depending on the brand and purity.
• 1 liter: Usually falls between ₹1,200 to ₹2,500 (INR), with premium brands sometimes charging more due to organic certification and other quality assurances​

This higher price reflects the labor-intensive process and the nutritional value associated with Bilona ghee, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and beneficial compounds important for health. If you want to purchase Bilona ghee, it’s often available through health stores, specialty markets, or online retailers like Amazon India, Organic Gyaan, and local organic outlets.

Bilona Ghee Benefits

Bilona ghee is an ancient Indian staple, packed with amazing health benefits. Traditionally made by churning curd to extract butter, which is then slowly cooked to make ghee, it’s a purer and richer version of ghee compared to many commercially available types. Bilona ghee isn’t just tasty; it’s incredibly nourishing and can support various aspects of health when added to a balanced diet. Here’s a closer look at why bilona ghee deserves a spot in your kitchen.

1. Promotes Digestive Health

• Bilona ghee contains short-chain fatty acids, especially butyrate, which helps improve digestion. Butyrate is known to nourish the cells in the gut lining, reducing inflammation and aiding in the breakdown of food.
• For those dealing with digestive issues, adding a small amount of ghee to meals can make it easier for the body to absorb essential nutrients.

2. Supports Joint Health

• This traditional ghee is also rich in healthy fats that act as a lubricant for joints. If you often feel stiffness or joint discomfort, adding bilona ghee to your diet may provide some relief over time.
• The fats in bilona ghee can help in keeping the joints and connective tissues flexible, which is essential for smooth movement.

3. Boosts Immunity

• Bilona ghee is high in fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which play a crucial role in immune function. These vitamins are absorbed well by the body when consumed with fat, which is why bilona ghee is such a good choice.
• These nutrients strengthen the body’s natural defenses, helping you stay protected from seasonal illnesses.

4. Provides a Natural Energy Source

• For centuries, bilona ghee has been valued as a source of sustained energy. Its unique structure allows it to be easily absorbed by the body and used as a quick energy source.
• This makes it an excellent choice for those with busy lifestyles or people who need an energy boost without experiencing sugar crashes.

5. Improves Skin Health

• Bilona ghee is often used in skincare for its moisturizing properties. It can be applied directly to the skin to soothe dry or chapped areas or even used as a night moisturizer for a natural glow. Consuming ghee in moderation can also help improve skin elasticity from within, giving a healthier, radiant look.

6. Aids in Weight Management

• Despite being a source of fat, bilona ghee can actually aid in weight management. The short- and medium-chain fatty acids in bilona ghee are easier to metabolize and are often used by the body for energy instead of being stored as fat. This means that when eaten in moderation, it can help keep hunger at bay and manage cravings.

7. Supports Heart Health

• Unlike many other saturated fats, the fats in bilona ghee may have a positive impact on heart health when consumed in the right quantities. It can help increase levels of healthy HDL cholesterol, which supports heart health. Adding a small amount of bilona ghee to meals could contribute to balanced cholesterol levels over time.

8. Acts as a Cooling Agent

• In traditional Ayurveda, bilona ghee is considered cooling and soothing. It’s often used to calm the body and mind, especially during times of stress or high activity. A spoonful of ghee in warm milk before bedtime can help you wind down and promote a restful sleep.

9. Reduces Inflammation

• Bilona ghee is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, largely due to the presence of butyrate. Regular consumption in moderate amounts can help the body deal with inflammation, which is at the root of many chronic diseases.

10. Improves Memory and Brain Function

• In Ayurveda, bilona ghee has long been regarded as “brain food.” The healthy fats in ghee help nourish brain cells and improve cognitive function. Consuming bilona ghee may help sharpen focus, enhance memory, and support overall brain health.

Frequently Asked Questions