INTRODUCTION

It is a natural, sticky, tar-like substance that forms over centuries from the slow decomposition of plant material and minerals under the pressure of rocks in high mountain ranges, such as the Himalayas. It is rich in fulvic acid, humic substances, and numerous minerals, making it a popular supplement in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Shilajit is often used for its potential health benefits, which are believed to include boosting energy levels, improving cognitive function, supporting male fertility, and promoting overall vitality.

Common Names

Shilajit is usually known as Asphaltum, Black Bitumen, or Mineral Pitch in English. Other names that refer Shilajit in Ayurveda in other states within India includes Silajat, Shilajatu, Silajatu, Kanmandam, Saileya Shilaja, Moomie, Moomiyo, Punjabinum, Memiya, Shiladhatuja, Adrija, Shilasweda, Shilaniryasa, Asmaja, Asmajatuka, Shilamaya, Girija, Gaireya.

Types

• Himalayan Shilajit: This type of Shilajit is harvested from the Himalayan Mountain ranges. It is highly valued for its purity and potency due to the mineral-rich environment of the Himalayas.
• Siberian Shilajit: Found in the mountainous regions of Siberia, this type of Shilajit is also known for its high quality and mineral content. It is often compared to Himalayan Shilajit in terms of effectiveness.
• Altai Shilajit: Sourced from the Altai Mountains in Russia, this type of Shilajit is another popular form known for its purity. Like Himalayan and Siberian Shilajit, Altai Shilajit is also rich in minerals and fulvic acid.
• Tibetan Shilajit: Extracted from the Tibetan Mountain ranges, this variant is considered potent and is used traditionally in Tibetan medicine. Its mineral profile is influenced by the unique geographical features of the Tibetan plateau.

How to identify original Shilajit?

Identifying authentic Shilajit involves checking several characteristics. Genuine Shilajit is typically dark brown to black in color, has a sticky, tar-like consistency, and will soften when warmed and harden when cooled. It should dissolve completely in warm water, leaving no residue, and turn the water a golden or reddish-brown color. Authentic Shilajit also has a distinct earthy, smoky taste and a strong, natural smell similar to raw soil. Conducting these tests and buying from reputable suppliers can help ensure you are purchasing pure, high-quality Shilajit.

Benefits

 Increase Male Fertility

Shilajit may increase male fertility by boosting key hormones. Research has shown that taking 500 milligrams (mg) of shilajit per day can significantly increase dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) and total testosterone levels.

Prevent Bone Loss

Shilajit may have a positive effect on bone health. A study published in 2022 found postmenopausal women with osteopenia (low bone mineral density) who took shilajit supplements daily saw significant improvements in bone density after 11 months. The researchers theorized that this effect may be due to shilajit’s ability to speed up cell turnover.

Brain function

The powerful antioxidant fulvic acid in Shilajit reduces inflammation, slows down the aging process, and prevents or slows down the progression of brain cell damage.

Pain and inflammation

 Shilajit has abundant anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, so it helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain. It was found to be effective against rheumatoid arthritis.

Aging

Shilajit contains high concentrations of fulvic and humic acids that act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, reducing free radicals, and lowering cellular damage in the body, thus improving the overall health and functionality of the cells, and slowing the aging process, as well as improving longevity.

Cognitive function

Fulvic acid in Shilajit is a strong antioxidant that improves cognitive functions because it prevents the accumulation of tau protein, a buildup of which may damage the brain cells, reducing cognitive functions, such as thinking, learning, understanding, justifying, listening, questioning, and paying attention to details.

High Cholesterol

A study reported a group given Shilajit showed a significant decrease in cholesterol and triglycerides compared with another group given a placebo.

Liver Cancer

A study suggested Shilajit helped with the destruction of cancerous cells in the liver by preventing the cells from multiplying.

Is it safe to take Shilajit every day?

Although this herb is natural and safe, you shouldn’t consume raw or unprocessed shilajit. Raw shilajit may contain heavy metal ions, free radicals, fungus, and other contaminations that can make you sick. Whether you purchase online or from a natural or health food store, make sure shilajit is purified and ready for use.

Side Effects

There are certain downsides to the use of Shilajit such as a decrease in blood pressure. Because Shilajit is an herbal product, it may be contaminated with dirt and many other heavy metals. Therefore, it should be processed well to remove all contaminants before consumption because they may cause harm to the body.

Shilajit side effects include:

• Stomach upset, especially in people with sensitive stomachs
• Headaches and migraines
• Allergic reaction
• Skin reactions from topical application of Shilajit oil
• Interaction with certain medications may reduce your blood sugar drastically if you are taking anti-diabetic medicine
• Poisoning from heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic if contaminated
• Iron toxicity because it is a rich source of iron

Precaution

Shilajit must not be taken in raw form. Don’t consume too much and always consume after the precautions of professional doctor. Always keep away from kids.

This Article is for Basic Information. Contact a professional doctor before using it.

HAKEEM KARAMAT ULLAH

+923090560000