Posted by Evelyn Smith
on October 10, 2025
Since ancient times, long before modern laboratories and scientific studies, donkey milk was regarded as far more than just food—it was a revered remedy. Historical accounts show it was used to heal wounds and treat a wide range of illnesses, including bronchitis, asthma, joint pain, and gastritis.
But was this just ancient folklore, or did our ancestors know something that we are only now rediscovering through modern science? The answer, as research now confirms, is that their wisdom was remarkably accurate.
The Ancient Claim: A Soothing Balm for Ailments
For centuries, donkey milk was the go-to remedy for chronic inflammatory conditions. It was given to people suffering from respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis, as well as those with persistent joint pain and digestive troubles like gastritis. Ancient healers observed that it had a calming, therapeutic effect on the body.
The Modern Proof: A Rich Source of Anti-Inflammatory Compounds
Today, science is validating these historical uses. Research shows that donkey milk is packed with bioactive components that have powerful anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory (immune-regulating) properties. Studies have found that consuming donkey milk can induce the release of certain cytokines, which are proteins that help control the body's inflammatory and immune responses to infection. This scientifically-proven ability to calm inflammation explains why it was so effective for conditions like asthma and joint pain.
The Ancient Claim: A Remedy for Wounds and Infections
Beyond internal ailments, donkey milk was also used topically to heal wounds. It was believed to have a purifying effect that helped prevent infections and promote recovery.
The Modern Proof: A Natural Antimicrobial Powerhouse
Modern analysis of donkey milk has uncovered the "secret weapons" behind its healing reputation: powerful, natural antimicrobial agents. The most significant of these is Lysozyme. Donkey milk is exceptionally rich in this enzyme, containing levels similar to human breast milk and far higher than cow's milk, which has only negligible amounts.
Lysozyme works by destroying the cell walls of harmful bacteria, acting as a natural protector. This, along with other components like lactoferrin, gives donkey milk the ability to inhibit the growth of various pathogens. This explains why it was such an effective treatment for wounds—it was nature's own way of keeping the area clean and fighting off infection.
Conclusion: Wisdom That Stands the Test of Time
The historical reverence for donkey milk as a therapeutic remedy was not based on myth, but on real, observable benefits. What ancient cultures knew through intuition and experience, modern science is now confirming with concrete evidence.
Today, we understand that the powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-supporting properties of donkey milk are due to its unique bioactive components. Choosing donkey milk is like embracing a piece of history—a natural remedy trusted for centuries and now, finally, explained by science.
Source:
Naydenova, N. (2022). Bioactive components of donkey milk. Food Science and Applied Biotechnology, 5(2), 219-231. https://doi.org/10.30721/fsab2022.v5.i2.212