The 10 main benefits of Shilajit, the panacea of Ayurveda
[Article updated: May 2020]
Shilajit is traditionally native to India and Tibet, but nowadays it can be found in many other countries.
It has been used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, as have many of its herbs and herbal remedies that are used in alternative medical treatments around the world.
Shilajit is a sticky tar resin very rich in nutrients.
Here are 10 of its incredible benefits that can improve your health.
The Ten Potential Benefits of Shilajit
When used correctly, Shilajit could have several benefits for human health.
These benefits are largely due to the high concentration of fulvic and humic acids, as well as many minerals.
1. Brain functions
Shilajit is formed from the slow decomposition of plant matter.
The many compounds found there may be helpful for brain function, and may even enhance Alzheimer's therapy.
A study from 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 can also help control cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers expect Shilajit to have an impact in preventing cognitive impairment, but believe more research is needed to explore these possibilities.
2. Aging
As such, it can help reduce free radicals and cell damage in the body which, as a reminder, are two key factors in aging.
Daily supplementation of Shilajit can contribute to overall vitality, but also to slow down the aging process.
3. Anemia
Anemia develops when there is not enough healthy cells or hemoglobin in the blood.
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;
- Headache.
Shilajit contains high levels of humic acid and iron, which makes it a potential remedy for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any supplements for this purpose.
4. Antiviral
The wide range of minerals and compounds found in Shilajit can also help fight viruses.
A study [ 2 ] has shown that Shilajit can fight and kill many different viruses in isolated environments, including that of herpes.
The researchers noted that while it appears to be effective, more studies with living subjects are needed to support these claims.
5. Chronic fatigue
Researchers have noted that it may help improve cellular functions in the body.
Simply put, it can reduce fatigue by addressing the source of the problem and naturally increasing energy levels.
6. Altitude sickness
Traditional practitioners also claim that Shilajit can help relieve altitude sickness.
Changes in pressure at high altitudes can greatly affect some people.
Symptoms of altitude sickness range from pain and fatigue in the body to congestion in the lungs and even a lack of oxygen in the brain.
Shilajit is a complex substance that contains over 80 different minerals, as well as fulvic acid and humic acid.
Because of this broad spectrum of beneficial compounds, researchers believe it may help reduce many symptoms of altitude sickness.
It can also help improve cognitive brain 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.
A study [ 4 ] found that Shilajit contributes to the destruction of cancer cells in the liver. It also prevents the multiplication of cancer cells.
Researchers have concluded that it has an anti-cancer effect.
8. Heart health
Shilajit can also protect the heart and improve heart health.
A recent study [ 5 ] using rats, demonstrated its protective effects on the heart.
Animals that were treated with this natural mineral before heart injury suffered less heart damage than those that did not.
It is important to note that Shilajit can lower blood pressure in some cases and should not be taken by someone who has active heart disease.
9. Obesity
Being overweight can tire the muscles and put stress on the 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.
Which means less fatigue and more strength and endurance over time.
10. Male fertility and testosterone
Shilajit has also been studied to increase male fertility.
One study [ 7 ] involved giving 60 infertile men 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 as well as an improvement in sperm mobility, the two determining factors of male fertility,
Another study [ 8 ] examined its ability to increase testosterone levels in healthy volunteers.
Men between 45 and 55 received Shilajit for 90 days.
At the end of this period, researchers noted significant increases in testosterone levels in the volunteers.
Using the Shilajit
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 the directions on the package.
The recommended dose is 300 to 500 milligrams per day.
However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
Potential side effects
Research [ 8 ] 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 low blood pressure should avoid taking it to prevent a drop in blood pressure.
Health authorities do not regulate natural supplements, so it is important to get your supplement from a reliable source.
Poor quality Shilajit can be tainted heavy metals , free radicals and even arsenic sometimes.
The last word
Shilajit has several health benefits and is a safe and effective supplement when used correctly.
However, it is always best to consult a doctor to determine the correct dosage for each case.
Having a medical follow-up can also help watch for potential side effects.