Shilajit for Health: Unlocking the Power of the Ayurvedic Gem
Shilajit, also known as Mumie or Moomiyo, is a remarkable mineral-based extract originating from the Himalayan mountains, especially in Northern India and Tibet. This natural wonder, created over centuries, transforms minerals, organic matter, and rocks into a distinctive sticky black resin-like substance. It’s not limited to the Himalayas, as one can find Shilajit in mountain ranges worldwide, like Siberia’s Sayan-Altai Mountains. Ayurvedic medicine holds Shilajit in high esteem for its profound impact on overall well-being, often referred to in English as Asphaltum, black Bitumen, or Mineral Pitch, cherished for its potential health benefits.
Shilajit has a dark brown to blackish-brown hue, a slightly bitter taste, and a scent akin to a cow’s urine. Ayurvedic texts regard Shilajit as a “conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness” due to its versatile healing properties. It helps with various ailments, from diabetes and heart issues to urinary tract disorders and muscle strength enhancement. Shilajit rejuvenates the body and enhances intelligence. The purification method involves using methods like ‘Cow’s Ghee’ or ‘Triphala Decoction’ to ensure safety and therapeutic efficacy in Ayurvedic treatments.
Composition of Shilajit
Shilajit’s composition varies depending on the plants associated with the rocks. It primarily comprises the following substances:
Fulvic acid
Dibenzo-α-pyrones
Humic acids
Humins
Other phytochemicals
Fulvic acid plays a crucial role in cognitive health. This natural resin has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine as a rejuvenating and adaptogenic substance. It helps the body resist stressors of all kinds, whether physical, chemical, or biological. It has various therapeutic properties, and modern scientific research has only reinforced its reputation as an elixir.
Types of Shilajit and Their Characteristics
Shilajit falls under various types, determined by the rocks it exudes. There are four main varieties:
Gold Shilajit (Savrana): It appears reddish and offers a mix of sweet and bitter tastes.
Silver Shilajit (Rajat): It appears white and provides a spicy and sweet flavour blend.
Copper Shilajit (Tamra): A bluish-purple colour offers a bitter and spicy taste.
Iron-containing Shilajit (Lauha): It is brownish-black and tastes bitter and salty.
Two more varieties, Naag (Lead) and Vanga (Tin), are also present, while the gold and copper Shilajit are rare. The iron-containing Shilajit is the most common and recognised for its therapeutic properties.
Shilajit comes in various forms, such as:
Shilajit Capsules
Shilajit Powders
Liquid form of Shilajit
There is no scientific agreement on the best form, and one must be cautious when taking Shilajit or any supplement. Some products may contain contaminants, including heavy metals.
Summary
Shilajit comes in four primary varieties. Gold Shilajit (Savrana) is reddish and has a sweet and bitter flavour profile, while Silver Shilajit (Rajat) is white and has a spicy and sweet flavour profile. The colour of Copper Shilajit (Tamra) is bluish-purple, and its flavour is spicy and bitter. Shilajit (Lauha), which contains iron, has a brownish-black colour and a bitter, salty flavour. Shilajit comes in liquid, powdered, and capsule form.
Health Benefits of Shilajit
The discovery of Shilajit’s remarkable properties began with Himalayan villagers, who, after consuming it, reported a wide range of health improvements. Over time, modern science has validated many of the properties attributed to shilajit in traditional Indian medicine.
Energy and Stamina Booster
Shilajit is an energy elixir. Practitioners of Ayurved medicine have been prescribing it for millennia to combat fatigue. One of its fundamental mechanisms involves increasing the efficiency of mitochondria in the cells, the powerhouses that convert nutrients into energy. By promoting better oxygenation of these mitochondria, Shilajit boosts the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which fuels the cells. Athletes often turn to Shilajit to boost their performance.
Shilajit also helps to combat chronic fatigue syndrome. This condition, characterised by extreme tiredness, cognitive impairment, and pain, can be debilitating. Shilajit’s potential to restore the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and support mitochondrial health has been promising in alleviating chronic fatigue.
Improves Cognitive Function and Brain Health
Shilajit isn’t just a physical booster but also a brain enhancer. It acts as a shield for brain cells, protecting them from damage and promoting neuroprotective activity. For people facing mild Alzheimer’s, Shilajit, with its fulvic acid content combined with B vitamins, offers a ray of hope. It exhibits anti-epileptic and potentially antipsychotic effects, making it a promising herb for Alzheimer’s therapy. Shilajit emerges as a natural remedy for cognitive disorders by enhancing memory, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.
Helps Improve Hormonal Balance
Shilajit plays a vital role in hormonal balance, particularly in reproductive functions. In women, hormonal imbalances may result in irregular periods, infertility, mood swings, and weight gain. Incorporating Shilajit supplements in the diet supports a balance between progesterone and oestrogen levels in women. It helps boost oestrogen levels, easing menstrual and menopausal discomfort, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
Shilajit also increases sexual desire, higher libido, better functionality, and boosts fertility. In men, Shilajit increases testosterone levels and sperm production, combating infertility issues and enhancing virility.
Improves Skin Health
Shilajit’s goodness doesn’t stop at the internal aspects of health; it also extends to the skin’s health and beauty. Shilajit consists of vital minerals like zinc, copper, and iron. These minerals promote collagen formation, preserving skin suppleness and providing protection from oxidative stress, sustaining healthy skin.
Poor circulation brings several skin issues like dullness, dryness, and ance. Shilajit enhances blood circulation, resulting in glowing skin. Its antioxidant properties protect against environmental toxins. Whether taken as a supplement or applied directly on the skin, Shilajit promotes a healthy, radiant, and youthful appearance of skin.
Improve Immune System
Shilajit contains several vitamins and minerals that remove toxins from the body. The presence of fulvic acid in Shilajit, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, supports the immune system. These properties help in increasing the antibodies. Shilajit also contains vital nutrients such as zinc, copper, iron, and manganese, aiding the antibodies to work against viruses like SARS-CoV.
Summary
Shilajit, a natural wonder, offers various health benefits rooted in traditional Indian medicine and supported by modern science. It’s an energy booster, enhancing stamina and mitigating chronic fatigue syndrome by promoting mitochondrial efficiency. Additionally, Shilajit enhances cognitive function, protecting brain cells and showing promise in Alzheimer’s therapy. It aids in hormonal balance, supporting women’s reproductive health and increasing men’s virility. For skincare, Shilajit’s mineral content fosters collagen formation, resulting in healthy, radiant skin. Furthermore, it bolsters the immune system with its antioxidant-rich composition. Shilajit, a holistic health ally, can enrich your well-being in various ways.
Best Ways to Eat Shilajit
The recommended dosage of Shilajit is 300-500 mg/day or a pea-sized portion dissolved in liquid, taken up to three times a day. Adhering to the package instructions is the usual dosage for optimal health. It is crucial to consult a health professional before taking any natural supplements, including Shilajit.
Here are some simple ways to include Shilajit in your daily routine:
Shilajit Powder
Take 2-4 pinches of Shilajit Powder
Add it to lukewarm milk or water.
Consume it thrice a day after meals.
Shilajit Capsule or Tablet
Take 1 Shilajit capsule or tablet.
Swallow it with lukewarm milk after meals, three times a day.
Shilajit Tea or Coffee
Boil 100 ml (1.5 cups) of water in a pan.
Add ½ teaspoon of tea or coffee and let it boil for 5 minutes.
Strain and add two pinches of Shilajit powder.
Mix well and enjoy Shilajit tea or coffee in the morning.
Precautions With Shilajit
While Shilajit is safe for most people, there are potential side effects and precautions to be aware of:
Shilajit may lower blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those on blood pressure medications.
Don’t consume raw or unprocessed Shilajit, as it may contain contaminants like heavy metals. It may cause allergic reactions like rash, increased heart rate, dizziness, etc in some people.
Research Shilajit and ensure you buy a purified and safe product for consumption.
Avoid using Shilajit with certain foods like meat or fish, horse gram, citrus fruits, and black nightshade.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Shilajit due to insufficient research data.
Summary
Possible side effects of Shilajit include potential blood pressure reduction and allergic reactions from raw or unprocessed forms. To ensure safety, buy purified Shilajit, avoid certain foods, and if pregnant or breastfeeding, steer clear due to insufficient research.
HealthifyMe Suggestion
Now that we know how helpful shilajit is for health. How about a quick healthy and tasty recipe with shilajit?
Shilajit-Infused Smoothie:
Create a delicious and nutritious smoothie with shilajit to help balance hormones. Here’s how you can do it:
Ingredients:
– purified shilajit: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon
– banana: 1
– Greek yoghurt (or a dairy-free alternative): 1/2 cup
– almond milk (or any milk of your choice): 1/2 cup of
– mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries): 1/2 cup
– flax seeds or chia seeds: 1 tablespoon
– A drizzle of honey or a few drops of stevia for sweetness (optional)
Instructions
1. Combine the banana, Greek yoghurt, almond milk, mixed berries, and flaxseeds or chia seeds in a blender.
2. Add the shilajit resin.
3. Blend until smooth and well-mixed.
4. Taste the smoothie and add honey or stevia for desired sweetness.
5. Enjoy this shilajit-infused smoothie in the morning or as a midday snack.
The banana and flax seeds contain nutrients that can help support hormone balance, while shilajit may contribute to overall vitality and well-being.
The Final Word
Shilajit, sourced from mountainous regions, can be beneficial. Shilajit boasts numerous health claims, from improving memory to enhancing fertility. However, it is not FDA-regulated, and scientific evidence is limited. Always consult the healthcare provider before consumption of Shilajit, especially if taking other medications. Also, quality matters; choose wisely and prioritise health and safety.
Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is just to disperse knowledge and raise awareness. It does not intend to replace medical advice from professionals. For further information, please contact our certified nutritionists Here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is Shilajit?
A. Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like substance that has formed over centuries due to the decomposition of organic matter. It is a natural elixir used in traditional medicine for centuries. This resin is found mainly in the mountainous regions of the rocks of the Himalayan in India and Tibet and the Altai mountains in Siberia.
Q. Where does Shilajit come from?
A. Shilajit is a dark, sticky resin that exudes from steep rocks from regions of India, Tibet, Russia, China, Pakistan, Nepal, and Afghanistan. Each place brings its unique quality.
Q. What are the claimed health benefits of Shilajit?
A. Shilajit is a natural powerhouse because of its many health benefits. It can help in improving the following process:
Improve brain health
Boosts cognitive functions
Slows ageing
Regulate hormones
Boost immunity
Improve fertility
Relieves stress and anxiety
Q. How is Shilajit traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine?
A. In Ayurveda, Shilajit helps balance all three doshas of vata, pitta, and kapha. Ayurveda considers Shilajit, a “conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness” for its healing properties. It helps treat many ailments like diabetes, heart problems, and urinary tract disorders. It also promotes muscle strength and improves intelligence.
Q. Is Shilajit safe for consumption?
A. Shilajit is not FDA-approved, and research is limited. While some studies raise safety concerns, consult the healthcare provider before trying it.
Q. Can Shilajit help with energy and stamina?
A. Yes, Shilajit is a commendable energy elixir. Shilajit helps the body oxygenate more efficiently by improving mitochondria function, leading to increased energy and stamina. It can also combat chronic fatigue syndrome by restoring the balance in the HPA axis, which regulates stress.
Q. What role does shilajit play in supporting the immune system?
A. Shilajit helps improve the immune system by providing several nutrients like zinc, copper, and iron. The presence of fulvic acid in Shilajit helps increase the antibodies and reduce free radicals and cellular damage in the body.
Q. Can Shilajit promote cognitive function and brain health?
A. Shilajit has distinct neuroprotective properties and helps to safeguard brain cells. It positively impacts factors related to traumatic brain injuries, such as brain oedema and the blood-brain barrier. Shilajit also aids in treating mild cases of Alzheimer’s disease due to the presence of fulvic acid.
Q. How does Shilajit affect hormonal balance?
A. Shilajit increases testosterone in men and promotes balance between progesterone and oestrogen levels in women. These hormonal balances ease menstrual and menopausal discomfort in females. Shilajit could be valuable for addressing hormonal imbalances or infertility issues.
Q. Are there any potential side effects or interactions with medications?
A. Shilajit is generally safe for long-term consumption. However, it may drop blood pressure and shouldn’t be taken by those with heart disease and hypotension history. Beware of impurities like heavy metals and fungus, which may cause allergic reactions. Stop using it if you notice a rash, increased heart rate, low BP, or dizziness.
Q. What is the recommended dosage of Shilajit for health benefits?
A. The recommended dosage of Shilajit is 300-500 mg/day dissolved in liquid (water or milk) for optimal health.
Q. Are there different types or qualities of Shilajit available?
A. There are six different types of Shilajit available:
Gold Shilajit (Savrana)
Silver Shilajit (Rajat)
Copper Shilajit (Tamra)
Iron-containing Shilajit (Lauha)
Naag (Lead)
Vanga (Tin)
Q. Can Shilajit be used for skin and beauty purposes?
A. Shilajit provides better protection against cellular damage and environmental toxins, slowing ageing. Shilajit also has humectant properties and antioxidant properties. It helps retain moisture and improves overall texture for people with dry skin.
Q. How is Shilajit sourced and processed?
A. Shilajit is a naturally sticky, dark substance in the Himalayan region. It forms over centuries by gradual decomposition or humification of latex, resin-bearing plant material and other organic matter by microorganisms.
Q. What scientific research or clinical studies have been conducted on Shilajit?
A. Several studies, including animal and human, highlight that Shilajit use is usually safe. It improves spermatogenesis in infertile males. However, the FDA does not regulate Shilajit. So, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Shilajit into your diet.
Research Sources:
Clinical Evaluation of Spermatogenic Activity of Processed Shilajit in Oligospermia
A Review of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Function in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Shilajit: A Panacea for High-altitude Problems
Shilajit: A Natural Phyto Complex with Potential Procognitive Activity