Ghee has been an integral part of Indian households and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. But in recent years, a specific type of ghee, known as A2 Bilona Ghee, has gained popularity due to its nutritional superiority and traditional preparation method.
Unlike commercially processed ghee, A2 Bilona Ghee is made using a time-honored, artisanal process that retains the essential nutrients, making it one of the healthiest and purest forms of ghee available today.
In this blog, we will explore:
āļø The Bilona method of ghee preparation
āļø Why Bilona Ghee is better than commercial ghee
āļø The nutritional and health benefits of A2 Bilona Ghee
āļø How to identify authentic A2 Bilona Ghee in the market
Ā Understanding the Bilona Method of Ghee Preparation
The Bilona method is an ancient, Ayurvedic technique of making ghee that ensures the preservation of essential nutrients, antioxidants, and good fats. The process involves several key steps:
Step-by-Step Process of Making A2 Bilona Ghee
1Sourcing A2 Milk from Indigenous Cows
A2 Bilona Ghee is made exclusively from the milk of indigenous cow breeds that naturally produce A2 beta-casein protein. These include:
- Gir Cows (Gujarat)
- Sahiwal Cows (Punjab, Haryana)
- Rathi CowsĀ
- Kankrej Cows
Unlike hybrid cows like Holstein and Jersey, which produce A1 protein, indigenous cows produce A2 milk, which is easier to digest and has more health benefits.
Converting Milk into Curd (Dahi)
Instead of directly boiling the milk, it is first set into curd. This is a crucial step, as it ensures that the good bacteria and probiotics in the milk are preserved.
- The A2 milk is fermented naturally to make curd, without adding artificial cultures.
- This process enhances the bioavailability of nutrients, making the ghee healthier.
Churning the Curd (Bilona Process)
Once the curd is ready, it is hand-churned using a wooden churner (Bilona).
- This traditional clockwise and anti-clockwise churning helps in separating butter (Makkhan) from the buttermilk.
- Unlike machine processing, hand-churning ensures that the nutritional integrity of the milk is retained.
Slow Heating to Extract Ghee
The freshly obtained butter is then slowly heated on a low flame in an earthen or brass vessel until it turns into golden A2 Bilona Ghee.
- The slow heating removes all moisture while retaining essential fatty acids, vitamins, and medicinal properties.
- The final product is pure, aromatic, and nutrient-rich.
Ā Why the Bilona Method is Preferred?
ā Preserves all essential fatty acids and nutrients
ā Enhances digestibility and absorption of vitamins
ā Eliminates harmful toxins and retains beneficial properties Shape
Why Bilona Ghee is Better Than Commercial Ghee?Ā
Made from A2 Milk, Not Hybrid Cow Milk
Commercially available ghee is often made from A1 milk, which contains A1 beta-casein protein, linked to digestive discomfort and inflammation. A2 Bilona Ghee, on the other hand, is made from A2 milk, which is healthier and easier to digest.
No Chemical Processing or Preservatives
Industrial ghee is often processed at high temperatures, using machines and chemical catalysts to speed up production. This leads to:
ā Loss of essential nutrients
ā Presence of artificial flavors and preservatives
ā Reduced digestibility
A2 Bilona Ghee is made organically, following a natural, hand-churned process, ensuring its purity and medicinal value.Ā
Richer in Nutrients and Flavor
Since A2 Bilona Ghee is prepared traditionally using low heat, it retains:
ā More Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
ā Essential Vitamins A, D, E, and K
ā Rich aroma and granular textureĀ
Better for Digestion and Gut Health
Studies show that A2 milk-based products are better for:
āļø Lactose-intolerant individuals
āļø Gut microbiome improvement
āļø Reducing bloating and indigestion
According to research published in the Journal of Dairy Science, A2 dairy consumption significantly reduces gastrointestinal inflammation compared to A1 dairy products.
Nutritional and Health Benefits of A2 Bilona Ghee
Rich Source of Healthy Fats
ā Contains short-chain and medium-chain fatty acids for better metabolism
Ā ā Helps in reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) and improving good cholesterol (HDL)
ā Supports weight loss and overall heart health
Boosts Immunity and Digestion
A2 Bilona Ghee is packed with:Ā
ā Butyric Acid, which nourishes gut cells
ā Probiotics, which improve digestion
ā Anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce acidity and bloating
Enhances Brain and Cognitive Function
A2 Bilona Ghee is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which:Ā
ā Improve memory and concentration
Ā ā Support brain development in children
Ā ā Reduce stress and anxiety
Ayurvedic Benefits
In Ayurveda, A2 Bilona Ghee is considered āSatvikā, meaning it promotes:
āļø Mental clarity and relaxation
Ā āļø Detoxification through Panchakarma therapy
āļø Balancing of Vata and Pitta doshas
How to Identify Authentic Bilona Ghee in the Market?
With A2 Ghee's increasing demand, many brands sell fake or low-quality versions. Hereās how to identify genuine A2 Bilona Ghee:
Check the Source
ā Ensure that the ghee is made from indigenous A2 cow breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, or Rathi.
ā Avoid brands that use Jersey or Holstein cow milk.
Look for Bilona Process Certification
ā Authentic A2 Bilona Ghee should mention the hand-churned Bilona method.
Test the Purity
ā Smell: Authentic A2 Bilona Ghee has a rich, nutty aroma.
ā Texture: It should have a grainy texture, not a smooth, factory-processed consistency.
ā Melting Point: Pure ghee melts at body temperature (around 37Ā°C).
Avoid Mass-Produced Ghee
ā Many brands claim to sell A2 Ghee but use machines instead of the Bilona method.
ā Choose hand-churned, artisanal brands that follow the traditional Ayurvedic process. Shape
Final Thoughts
Ā A2 Bilona Ghee is more than just a cooking ingredientāit is a nutritional powerhouse, deeply rooted in Ayurvedic traditions. If you are looking for:
ā Better digestion and gut health
Ā ā Higher nutrient content
ā Authentic and pure ghee
Then, A2 Bilona Ghee is the best choice.Ā Always opt for trusted brands that follow the Bilona method to enjoy all the health benefits this golden elixir has to offer!