Actor Rohit Roy recently posted an Instagram reel drinking 150 ml of medicated ghee on Day 5 of his Panchakarma therapy at KARE Mulshi, sparking widespread curiosity online about the safety and purpose of consuming large quantities of clarified butter. While the video drew supportive comments from his brother, actor Ronit Bose Roy, and the wellness retreat, medical and Ayurvedic specialists caution that the practice is a strictly supervised clinical procedure rather than a casual wellness trend.
Understanding Snehapana and Internal Oleation in Ayurveda
Drinking medicated ghee ahead of cleansing treatments is known as Snehapana, or internal oleation, according to Dr Chetan Sharma, Senior Ayurveda Consultant at Aaryuvedam Hospital in Faridabad. Dr Sharma explains that the primary objective is to mobilize accumulated doshas and metabolic toxins, known as Ama, from deeper tissues into the gastrointestinal tract for elimination during procedures like Vamana and Virechana.
Adding a modern medical perspective, Dr Gagan Tiwari, MD and BAMS at Kailash Health Village, notes that Ayurveda views medicated ghee as a Yogavahi, a carrier substance that transports herbal ingredients deeper into bodily tissues. From a physiological standpoint, ghee stimulates bile secretion and interacts directly with fat metabolism. Dr Tiwari emphasizes that Panchakarma functions as an entire therapeutic protocol rather than an isolated habit of consuming large amounts of fat.
Why Medicated Ghee Is Taken on an Empty Stomach
Ayurvedic practitioners never initiate Snehapana without a comprehensive evaluation. According to specialists, physicians assess a patient’s digestive strength, body constitution, age, and existing health conditions before prescribing the protocol. Patients typically follow light diets, avoid heavy or processed foods and alcohol, and maintain structured routines prior to the therapy.
The medicated ghee is administered early in the morning on an empty stomach, allowing practitioners to closely monitor digestion and tolerance. Rohit Roy’s 150 ml dose on Day 5 reflects a gradual increase in volume over several days, adjusted according to how well his body processed the previous amounts.
Gastrointestinal Effects and Safety Warnings
While the protocol prepares the digestive system for subsequent cleansing therapies, large doses of fat carry notable risks. Dr Shankar Zanwar, Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist at Gleneagles Hospital in Mumbai, notes that unmonitored consumption can trigger nausea, bloating, indigestion, loose stools, and abdominal discomfort.
All three specialists stress that no standard dose exists and the practice is unsuitable for everyone. Dr Tiwari warns that persistent symptoms like severe pain, vomiting, or diarrhea require halting the regimen immediately to prevent complications. Dr Zanwar cautions that consuming 150 ml without supervision creates unnecessary risks of excess calorie intake, weight gain, and exacerbated gallbladder or pancreatic conditions in vulnerable individuals.
Did You Know?
In Ayurveda, Snehapana is utilized to lubricate internal channels and shift metabolic waste toward the gut, but experts emphasize there is limited high-quality scientific evidence showing that medicated ghee alone detoxifies the body or improves long-term gut health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 150 ml of medicated ghee safe to try at home?
No. Medical and Ayurvedic experts strictly advise against self-administering large quantities of ghee based on social media trends. The dosage, duration, and monitoring must be individualized by a qualified professional.
Who should avoid drinking large amounts of ghee?
Individuals with gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, severe liver disease, obesity, or uncontrolled metabolic disorders should avoid consuming large quantities of ghee unless specifically directed by a qualified physician.
What are the common side effects of unmonitored Snehapana?
Consuming high volumes of fat without proper supervision can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, acidity, and digestive disturbances.
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