The sticky substance known as Shilajit comes from rocks in the Caucasus, Himalayas, Altai, and other mountain ranges around the world. Due to its powerful rejuvenating effects, it has been used as a traditional medicine in Ayurveda for hundreds of years to promote general health and well-being.
Let’s learn about shilajit in detail, know how it benefits health and if there are any side-effects.
What is Shilajit?
A chemical called Shilajit gets its name from the Sanskrit terms “Shila,” which means mountain, and “Jit,” which means victory. It is called the “destroyer of weakness” and the “conqueror of mountains.”
Shilajit is an organic substance that develops over time beneath the layers of rocks in high-altitude mountains. Plants or animals do not generate it. When exposed to the sun’s heat for an extended period, shilajit becomes a substance rich in nutrients and minerals.
After emerging from the cracks in the mountains, Shilajit is gathered and generated in several ways. It contains approximately 84 minerals, including iron, zinc, fulvic acid, and humic acid. A dark brown to black tar-like appearance is typical to pure shilajit.
Origin and Composition
Shilajit is a complex material created over millennia by the slow breakdown of minerals and plant stuffed under the force of mountains. It is rich in nutrients and bioactive substances that are extremely beneficial for human health. The presence of organic plant material, minerals, and microbial metabolites make it one of the potent remedy for a number of ailments.
Fulvic acid, humic acid, dibenzo-alpha-pyrones, and trace minerals like iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium are the primary bioactive ingredients of shilajit.
Benefits of Shilajit for health
Himalayan Shilajit is a natural cure for many contemporary illnesses such as-
- Chronic fatigue
- Stress-related problems
- Inflammatory conditions
- Cognitive loss
This material stimulates immunological function, boosts metabolic processes, and maintains cellular health, which helps people survive in today’s fast-paced world.
1. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory properties
Shilajit is a powerful antioxidant and can reduce inflammation in the body. It has been suggested that it may be beneficial in preventing chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
2. Energy and Stamina
Shilajit is an organic resin that can help those who lead busy lives, including athletes, gain an advantage. It is likely to increase the body’s cellular energy generation. That could help with endurance and athletic performance.
Shilajit supplement is perfect for people who want to perform at their best because it has been shown to improve physical strength and endurance. It contains fulvic acid, which can enhance the body’s ability to use oxygen and increase its stress response. This can enable you to push yourself past your comfort zone and reach extraordinary fitness levels.
3. Mental abilities
Shilajit lowers oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. It may enhance memory, focus, and cognitive performance.
4. Support for the immune system
Shilajit’s minerals and bioactive substances may strengthen the immune system and protect against diseases. Its ability to modulate immunity may fortify the body’s defenses against disease.
Additionally, Shilajit enhances overall immunological performance and guards against infections. It also promotes a robust immune response.
5. Anti-aging characteristics
According to Ayurveda, shilajit is a revitalizing herb with anti-aging qualities that can help preserve youth and energy.
6. Bone Health
Shilajit is a mineral-rich substance that contains calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Regular consumption of shilajit may help improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
7. Male reproductive health
Shilajit has traditionally been used to improve male fertility, libido, and sexual performance. Some studies (1) suggest it may help increase testosterone levels. More than 12% had an increase in sperm motility (2). Sperm motility, which is crucial for fertility, refers to the ability of sperm to move effectively.
8. Promotes heart health
Vitality and longevity are reliant on a heart in good health. Shilajit can help the cardiovascular system by lowering blood pressure. It enhances the blood flow and averts heart attacks.
9. Handling stress
Shilajit is an excellent option for stress management, which is a typical problem in today’s busy lives. Its well-known adaptogenic qualities enable the body to handle physical and psychological challenges.
Shilajit improves general resilience and controls the body’s reaction to stress, which can significantly improve quality of life.
10. Reduce or prevent Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological condition that affects the brain over time. It eventually impairs cognitive function. This degenerative disease can cause disorientation, trouble thinking and reasoning, memory loss, and other symptoms. These symptoms might interfere with day-to-day functioning.
There are several medication treatments available to alleviate the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. However, studies have revealed that shilajit’s molecular makeup may help prevent or slow down the disease’s progression. Fulvic acid, a potent antioxidant found in shilajit, helps maintain brain function by reducing tau protein buildup.
Here, it is important to note that tau proteins are necessary for the neurological system, but an excessive accumulation can harm brain tissue.
According to researchers (3), fulvic acid found in shilajit may help prevent the aberrant development of tau protein and reduce inflammation. It may aid with Alzheimer’s symptoms. Nevertheless, additional investigation and clinical trials are necessary to validate these advantages.
Modern uses
Shilajit is a material that comes in powder, pill, and supplement form. As a dietary supplement, it is frequently used to support general health and well-being. Moreover, Shilajit is used in skincare products because of its anti-aging and antioxidant qualities. Athletes also use Shilajit to increase their physical performance and endurance.
How to Use and How Much
Whether you use Shilajit generally in skincare products, as a supplement, or mix it into drinks, incorporating it into your daily routine is simple.
You must adhere to the suggested dosage recommendations and seek medical advice if you take medication or have any pre-existing medical issues.
However, consuming Shilajit Resin at 30gm (4) is a great option. Take all the appropriate safety and health precautions.
Authenticity and Quality: Ensuring Potency and Purity
As Shilajit products become increasingly popular, it is crucial to prioritize quality and authenticity. Customers should seek reliable brands who adhere to stringent quality control guidelines, such as independent testing and certification. Customers can choose premium Shilajit from ethical and sustainable sources to maximize its medicinal benefits.
Scientific research
Although shilajit has long been used in traditional medicine, further research is needed to determine its health advantages. Still, some research has shown encouraging findings. A study (5) published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that shilajit extract increased rat fatigue tolerance and physical stamina.
Another study (6) that was published in Andrologia discovered that shilajit supplemented to infertile men can increase their sperm count and motility.
Possible adverse effects
When used in the authorized dosages, shilajit is believed to be safe for the majority of people. Conversely, some people might have harmful side effects like headaches, allergic reactions, or stomach issues. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are already taking some medication.
Conclusion
Natural ingredients like shilajit have long been used in traditional medicine. If you lack energy or struggle coping up with endurance, Shilajit could come handy to give a boost of immunity, improve energy levels and general health.
