What is Bhadwa Ghee? A Monsoon Gift from Ayurveda
Bhadwa Ghee (also known as Bhadrapada Ghee or Monsoon Special Ghee) is a rare and potent Ayurvedic formulation, prepared only once a year during the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (Bhadwa Maas). Bhadwa Ghee is not just some ghee. It is considered a Vedic superfood with numerous medicinal qualities, immune-boosting properties, and alignment with the natural cosmic cycles.
Typically, ghee is made year-round, but Bhadwa Ghee is produced exclusively from the indigenous milk of Kankrej cows, made using the traditional Bilona method. This slow and traditional process preserves the full nutritional value and spiritual energy of the milk from beginning to end.
In Ayurveda, Bhadwa Ghee is a "Ritucharya" (seasonal preparation). It is thought to balance Vata and Pitta doshas, cleanse toxins, and improve digestion, which is critical during the monsoon season when the body is most vulnerable.
Why Bhadrapada Maas? The Ideal Time to Prepare Vedic Ghee
Bhadrapada Maas, generally occurring between August and September in the Indian lunar calendar and generally coinciding with the monsoon season, is considered by Ayurveda to hold a unique energy. At this time of year, the earth is fertile, the air is moist, and the grasses consumed by cows are nutrient-rich (full of naturally sprouted medicinal herbs) at this point of the year.
For these reasons, cows produce milk with tremendous energy, particularly indigenous cows such as Kankrej, which are known for their strong immunity and developing spiritual power. During this period, when the milk is prepared for the best ghee outcome, it will be:
- Full of omega-3s, antioxidants, and fat-soluble vitamins
- Easy to digest and highly absorbable
- Energetic—with nature's peak energy and lunar energy
Preparing Special Bhadwa ghee is a once-a-year preparation—and this is the time of year to be particular about consuming nutritional foods and following the lunar cycles. We will be producing ghee with ritualism from spiritual purification to meet the power of Vedic guidelines and lunar guidelines for beneficial function and maximum potency.
Derived from Kankrej Cow Milk—Utilising the Power of Native A2 Milk
The source of the strength of Bhadwa Ghee is Kankrej cows, one of the oldest and purest A2 milk-producing breeds in India. Kankrej cows are native to Gujarat & Rajasthan and have:
- High immunity and disease resistance
- Capable of producing A2 beta-casein milk, which is more nutritious and easier to digest than hybrid milk
- Ability to adapt to changes in the environment and consume a large amount of natural food for aging.
In contrast to hybrid A1 milk, A2 milk is compatible with human digestion, less inflammatory, and supportive of mental and physical health.
Also Read: Understanding A1 and A2 Milk: A Comprehensive Overview
Kankrej cows are sourced from ethical, natural conditions and fed on herbs and grasses grown during monsoon harvests. The bio-diversity of their feeding and the fact that their food does not contain any toxins give the ghee we produce, the ghee made using Kankrej cow's milk, unique medicinal properties not found commercially. It is about the cow's seasonal and sustainable feed, no hormones, and no artificial feeds.
This makes Kankrej cow ghee especially consumed during the month of Bhadrapada as a sattvic (pure) and holistic superfood capable of deep healing.
Bilona Method – The Primitive Way to Produce Cultured Ghee
The Bilona method is an ancient Ayurvedic procedure for making cultured ghee that is slow, sacred, and intentional. Bilona ghee is made using the slow, deliberate transformation of milk. Bilona ghee is different from commercial ghee, which is made from cream or butter directly heated and purified with butter.
The Bilona process is:
- Boil raw A2 milk from Kankrej cows.
- Cool the milk, add curd culture (using traditional starters), and leave it overnight to ferment.
- Remove the curd (yoghurt) from its container and hand churn the curd with a wooden Bilona (churner) in clockwise and anti-clockwise motions to separate butter.
- Gather the makkhan (butter) and heat the butter on low heat over a cow-dung fire (or wood fire).
- Purify the butter into ghee very slowly, ridding it of water, and watching the sweet-smelling golden clarified fat surface.
This process will provide A2 Bilona Ghee with active enzymes and proper healthy fats and will be free from harmful trans fats and lactose.
Compared to machine-made ghee, Bilona-churned ghee:
- Richer in aroma, flavour, and colour.
- Full of butyric acid, CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), and other bioavailable nutrients.
- More bio-absorbable and nourishing for cells, tissues, and the mind.
The bilona method is the only way to create ghee consistent with Vedic traditions, energy flow, and Ayurvedic science.
Advantages of Bhadwa Ghee for Health and Immunity
Bhadwa Ghee is a highly regarded wellness tonic due to its deep Ayurvedic properties, specifically during and after the monsoon period when immunity is at its lowest.
Here are some of the main benefits of Bhadwa Ghee:
1. Builds Immunity
Bhadwa Ghee has a rich nutrient profile that supports building up immunity. It is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K as well as antioxidants to help protect the body from infections and seasonal illnesses.
2. Aids Digestion
Bhadwa Ghee supports the agni (digestive fire), reduces acidity, and calms the digestive tract, especially during the monsoon when our digestive capacity is compromised.
3. Calms Doshas
Bhadwa Ghee calms the Vata and Pitta doshas, which are aggravated during the monsoon, resulting in issues such as joint pain, fatigue, skin problems, and mood instability.
4. Supports Brain Function
Bhadwa Ghee is high in DHA and Omega-3’s supporting the health of the brain and improving memory and mood.
5. Acts as a Rasayana (Rejuvenator)
Vedic texts classify Bilona A2 desi ghee as a Rasayana, which refers to a tonic that helps rejuvenate dhatu tissues, slows ageing, and cultivates ojas (vital life energy).
6. Good for Skin and Hair
When we nourish internally, it shows externally. Bhadwa Ghee makes skin supple and hair strong. It can be used topically as well.
Tips for Using Bhadwa Ghee During Monsoon for Optimal Benefit
To gain the full potential from this ghee, take it sparingly, intentionally, and correctly:
- Morning regime: Take 1 tsp of Bhadwa Ghee in the morning on an empty stomach with warm water or milk to increase metabolism.
- Cooking: Use Bhadwa Ghee in sautéed vegetables, khichdi, or tempered dals.
- Ghee Nasya: A couple of drops in each nostril will lubricate the nasal passages and allow for protection of the respiratory tract.
- Abhyanga (Oil massage): Use slightly warmed Bhadwa ghee for a massage on the joints and body to relieve pain and stiffness indicative of Vata disorders.
- With ayurvedic herbs: Bhadwa ghee is an excellent Anupana (carrier) for ayurvedic herbs, e.g., Ashwagandha, turmeric, or Brahmi.
Note: Because Bhadwa is calorie-dense and full of energy, it should be taken in moderation; taking 1 to 2 teaspoons a day is usually enough unless otherwise indicated by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
Bhadwa Ghee Cost and How to Buy Online
We, Gavyamart, are the only brand that provides this special Bhadwa Ghee. Our Bhadwa Ghee is priced at ₹2000 for each 1 Ltr, reflecting its rarity, labour-intensive preparation, and limited seasonal availability.
When considering purchasing Bhadwa Ghee online, consider:
- 100% A2 Bilona Ghee
- Milk sourced from Kankrej or other indigenous cow
- Made during the month of Bhadrapada
- Hand-churned and processed in small batches
- Certified (i.e., organic, cruelty-free, grass-fed, etc.)
Recommended Platforms:
- Reputable Ayurvedic farms and panchgavya organisations
- Authentic cow shelters (gaushalas) with online portals
- Natural wellness brands focusing on indigenous products
Always check the label, process, and online reviews before purchasing.
Bhadwa Ghee FAQs
1. Can Bhadwa Ghee be consumed by everyone?
Yes! But like all powerful foods, these should be consumed in moderation. All can benefit from it, particularly pregnant women, children, and the elderly.
2. How is it different from regular ghee?
Bhadwa Ghee is made only in the monsoon season. It is produced using Vedic rituals, Bilona churning, and A2 milk sourced from Kankrej cows: it is far richer, more medicinal, and spiritually more potent than ghee produced at other times.
3. Can I use Bhadwa Ghee for everyday cooking?
Yes, but in moderation. Most of its value is derived from its purity and potency. A small amount goes a long way.
4. Do I need to refrigerate Bhadwa Ghee?
You do not need to refrigerate Bhadwa Ghee if you store it in a cool, dry place away from the sun. Bhadwa Ghee will last up to a year.
5. Why is it considered expensive?
With all food products, there are ways to cheapen the cost; Bhadwa Ghee is handcrafted in small batches once a year, with labour-intensive production practices, and sourced from rare breeds of cows. You are paying for the food, process, and provenance.
Final Thoughts
Bhadwa Ghee isn’t just ghee—it’s Ayurveda in a spoon. Made once a year during Bhadrapada, using A2 Kankrej cow milk and the sacred Bilona method, this golden elixir is packed with immunity-boosting, detoxifying, and rejuvenating power.
If you want more than just cooking fat—if you want tradition, healing, and purity—Bhadwa Ghee is your once-a-year must-have. Don’t miss nature’s most potent offering.
