There is hardly any other food that receives so much criticism and is made responsible for the development of diseases like dairy products. In the past Milk has always been worshiped as sacred food in almost all religions and cultures, from the milk baths of Cleopatra, to the Milky Way and so in Ayurveda.
Charaka says that Milk and Ghee are the strongest rejuvenator and best source to keep one healthy.
Today we have a look into Buttermilk which means ‘Takra’ in Sanskrit and how to consume it.
Takra has highly therapeutic benefits which are stated in the textbooks for the treatment of a variety of health disorders. Takra helps to cleanse the channels (srotas) of circulation and maintains the transport of nutrients (Rasa) into the bodily tissues (dhatus). The result is a strong immunity (Ojas), proper nourishment, strength, complexion, and contentment.
“He who uses takra (buttermilk) daily does not suffer from diseases, and diseases cured by takra do not recur; just as amruta (nectar) is for the gods, takra is for the humans.”
Buttermilk from the view of the western concept is high in Potassium, Vitamin B12, Calcium, Riboflavin, Phosphorus and Probiotics. Potassium balances blood pressure and helps to regulate the fluid system in the body, Vitamin B12 supports the nervous system and reduces signs of anemia, Calcium maintains healthy bones, Riboflavin also known as Vitamin B2 supports the oxygen household in the body, Phosphorus is needed in every cell and mainly in teeth and bones and Probitotics which are a microorganism help to promote your gut flora.
Takra is very beneficial for those who are suffering from any digestive disorders like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrom, Malabsorption) as well as Oedema, Hemorrhoids, Anorexia, Liver Disease or Anemia.
The processed Buttermilk which you can buy in shops has a heating energy (virya) and therfor is not as beneficial during the warm summer month, while the handmade yoghurt drink is cooling for your organism and fine to consume.
So now we know how good it is for your whole being, we want to show you how easy it is to make.
I recommend a natural organic yoghurt, or yoghurt direct from your closest farmer. The cleaner the food the better for your body.
Sweet summer Lassie
1 part natural Yoghurt
4 parts of Water
1/2 tsp Jaggery or Shakara-sugar
a pinch of Cardamom seed powder
a pinch of Cinnamon
1 tsp Rosewater
Mix the yoghurt in the water and add the rest of the ingredients to it. Blend the mixture by hand and enjoy it.
Savory summer Lassie
1 part natural Yoghurt
4 parts of Water
1/4 Cucumber
1 tbsp Mint
a pinch mineral Salt
a pinch of Cumin seed powder
a pinch Pippali powder
Mix the yoghurt in the water and add the rest of the ingredients to it. Blend the mixture by hand and enjoy it.
At last yoghurt or yoghurt drinks should not be combined with fruits, these are incompatible food combinations and hard to digest. Yoghurt on its own is fine in small amounts (half a cup) and works as a digestive, in larger amounts it blocks the bodily channels (srotas), because it is heavy and sticky.
Ayurvedic medicine is a complete diagnostic and therapeutic concept of how to cure or alleviate food intolerances. A stable, balanced organism will continue to be able to deal with the low quality of food in such a way that it does not make one ill or can course allergies. If you suffer from food intolerances, please contact your closest Ayurvedic therapist or nutritionist for help and advice.