Is Donkey Milk The Healthier Alternative?

January 2, 2015

The latest news may be hard to believe, but it has elevated the humble donkey to celebrity status. Donkey milk is dubbed as the latest elixir, with claims of being more nutritious than cow’s milk. Perfect for beauty treatments, it is also used as a cure for a couple of ailments. No wonder Cleopatra bathed in it! Read on to find out more about this interesting revival.

1. It Is A Good Substitute To Cow’s Milk
Donkey milk is the closest in composition to human breast milk. In fact, it was used as a substitute for breast milk until the beginning of the 20th century. For children allergic to bovine proteins, this was an alternative to cow’s milk. It tastes slightly sweeter than cow’s milk, and is higher on the nutrition and lactose content.

2. It Is A Beauty Enhancer
Apart from Cleopatra, Roman empress Poppaea and Napolean’s sister, Pauline Bonaparte were staunch believers in the cosmetic properties of donkey milk. They claimed that it reduced wrinkles, kept their skin delicate, and preserved fairness. They might have been on to something, as donkey milk is used in the manufacture of soaps and cosmetics till date.

3. It Has Medicinal Properties
The Greeks prescribed this milk as a remedy for poisoning, fever, fatigue, eye stains, weakened teeth, ulcers, asthma, and gynecological issues. It contains anti-bacterial enzymes and anti-allergens as well.

So, is donkey milk the next big thing? A female donkey (also known as a jenny) can produce only a couple of pints per day, and for just 6-7 months a year. She also needs to see her foal before she can produce milk. Donkey milk is difficult to procure, and is expensive when available. If it is, you might want to give it a go.