Top 10 benefits of Shilajit, Ayurveda’s panacea
Shilajit traditionally originated in India and Tibet, but today it can be found in many other countries.
It has been used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, as have many of the herbs and herbal remedies used in alternative medical treatments around the world.
Shilajit is a sticky, tarry resin that is very rich in nutrients.
Here, without delay, are 10 of its incredible benefits that can improve your health.
Ten potential benefits of Shilajit
When used correctly, Shilajit could have several benefits for human health.
These benefits stem largely from the high concentration of fulvic and humic acids, as well as numerous minerals.
1. Brain functions
Shilajit is formed from the slow decomposition of plant matter.
The many compounds it contains can be useful for brain function, and may even enhance Alzheimer’s therapy.
A study in the International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease [1] noted that Shilajit is traditionally used for longevity and to slow the visible effects of aging.
It may also help control cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers expect Shilajit to have an impact on the prevention of cognitive disorders, but believe further research is needed to explore these possibilities.
2. Aging
One study [1] noted that fulvic acid, one of Shilajit’s key compounds, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
As such, it can help reduce free radicals and cellular damage in the body, which, as a reminder, are two key factors in aging.
Daily supplementation with Shilajit can not only contribute to overall vitality, but also slow down the aging process.
3. Anemia
Anemia develops when the blood does not contain enough healthy cells or hemoglobin.
There are many causes of anemia, including iron deficiency.
Iron deficiency anemia can cause many symptoms, including:
- Irregular heartbeat;
- Fatigue and weakness;
- Cold hands and feet;
- Headaches.
Shilajit contains high levels of humic acid and iron, making it a potential remedy for the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia.
However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking supplements for this purpose.
4. Antiviral
The wide range of minerals and compounds found in Shilajit can also help fight viruses.
One study [2] showed that Shilajit could fight and kill many different viruses in isolated environments, including herpes.
The researchers pointed out that, while this seems effective, more studies with live subjects are needed to back up these claims.
5. Chronic fatigue
A study published in 2012 in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology [3] found that Shilajit helped reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome in test subjects.
Researchers noted that it may help improve cellular functions in the body.
In other words, it can reduce fatigue by tackling the source of the problem and naturally boosting energy levels.
6. Altitude sickness
Traditional practitioners also claim that Shilajit can help relieve altitude sickness.
Pressure changes at high altitude can greatly affect some people.
Symptoms of altitude sickness range from pain and body fatigue to lung congestion and even a lack of oxygen to the brain.
Shilajit is a complex substance containing over 80 different minerals, as well as fulvic acid and humic acid.
Because of this broad spectrum of beneficial components, researchers believe it can help reduce many symptoms of altitude sickness.
It may also help improve the brain’s cognitive processes, boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
7. Liver cancer
Shilajit is also a promising treatment in the fight against certain types of cancer cells.
One study [4] revealed that Shilajit contributes to the destruction of cancer cells in the liver. It also prevents cancer cells from multiplying.
The researchers concluded that it has an anticancer effect.
8. Heart health
As it can lower blood pressure, people suffering from heart disease or low blood pressure should not take Shilajit.
Shilajit can also protect the heart and improve cardiac health.
A recent study [5] using rats, demonstrated its protective effects on the heart.
Animals that were treated with this natural mineral before a heart injury, had less heart damage than those who didn’t receive it.
It is important to note that Shilajit can reduce blood pressure in some cases and should not be taken by anyone with active heart disease.
9. Obesity
Being overweight can tire muscles and put stress on bones.
A study in the Journal of Medicinal Food [6] showed that obese people who took an oral supplement of purified Shilajit responded better to exercise than those who did not.
The researchers noted that this supplementation appeared to activate genes that help skeletal muscles adapt quickly to new workouts.
This means less fatigue and more strength and endurance over time.
10. Male fertility and testosterone
Shilajit has also been studied for increasing male fertility.
One study [7] 60 infertile men were given Shilajit twice a day for 90 days.
After the trial period, almost half of the men who completed the treatment showed an increase in total sperm count and an improvement in sperm motility, the two determining factors in male fertility,
Another study [8] examined its ability to increase testosterone levels in healthy volunteers.
Men aged between 45 and 55 were given Shilajit for 90 days.
At the end of this period, researchers noted significant increases in testosterone levels in the volunteers.
How to use Shilajit
Shilajit is available in powder or supplement form.
The powder can be taken dissolved in water or with milk.
It is advisable to dissolve a pea-sized portion of Shilajit in liquid and drink it up to three times a day, according to package instructions.
The recommended dose is 300 to 500 milligrams a day.
However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
Potential side effects
Research [9] suggests that Shilajit is safe for long-term use as a dietary supplement. However, there are a few potential side effects to watch out for.
In fact, it can lower blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people taking blood pressure medication.
People with active heart disease or a history of hypotension should avoid taking it to prevent a drop in blood pressure.
Health authorities do not regulate natural supplements, so it’s important to get your supplement from a reliable source.
Low-quality Shilajit may be tainted with heavy metals, free radicals and sometimes even arsenic.
The final word
Shilajit has many health benefits and is a safe and effective supplement when used correctly.
However, it is always best to consult a physician to determine the correct dosage for each individual case.
Having a medical follow-up can also help monitor potential side effects.
