Shilajit is used commonly in the medical domain of Ayurveda and alternative medicine. Shilajit constitutes of plants that have decomposed for centuries. They are collected from the foothills of the Himalayas and from the hilly regions of India and Tibet. It consists of rich minerals and nutrients which are beneficial for human beings. They act as supplements, which add strength and vitality to the body, as well as help in treating a variety of diseases and physical afflictions.
| Nature: | Ayurvedic medicine |
| Composition: | 60 percent fulvic acid + other minerals |
| Uses: | Anti-inflammatory, energy booster, immunity enhancer |
| Side-effects: | No noticeable side effects |
| Precautions: | No particular precautions and warnings |
Composition and Nature of Shilajit:
Shilajit has first developed in Ayurveda centuries ago and there are various levels of purity of Shilajit, depending upon the richness of minerals it is constituted of, and the locations where they are found. Pure Shilajit has many minerals and other trace elements that are necessary for the human body to function at optimal levels. Plants and organic matters that get trapped between rocks and mountains change their form over the centuries due to the enormous pressure exerted on them, and these are eventually transformed into a rich sticky mass of minerals and nutrients, called Shilajit. It is identified as a medicinal ingredient that is very potent and possesses high value for human health.
Uses and Benefits of Shilajit:
- It is used to boost the overall health and well-being of the body. It is packed with ingredients that provide body with strength and vitality. People with chronic fatigue, especially, have seen improvements after consuming Shilajit.
- Shilajit uses also include consumption as a supplement to prevent ageing. The amount of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients it consists helps in slowing down the ageing process.
- The antioxidant found in Shilajit called fulvic acid is found helpful in managing and delaying symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
- It also helps people recovering from iron deficiency and anaemia.
- People with diseases of heart are also recommended to use Shilajit.
Side Effects of Shilajit:
Shilajit is an herbal supplement, and therefore no conclusive tests have been done in order to ascertain all its chemical formulation and active ingredients. Consumers must be careful while consuming the medicine and seek medical attention in case they find any physical discomfort after consumption. People may have some allergic reaction to Shilajit or may even develop rash, lesion or dizziness after consuming it. In such a case, patients should immediately discontinue the supplement and consult their doctor.
Patients with any kind of blood-based disorder or blood disease are advised not to consume the medicine without first consulting a medical professional.
Shilajit Dosage:
The ideal dose of medicine includes taking a small amount, 300-350gms, of shilajit once a day. Shilajit can be consumed in various ways. It can be consumed every morning on an empty stomach to provide body with the energy needed for the entire day and to boost the metabolic system of the body, aiding digestion as well as fat burn. One can take a small amount of medicine and mix it in warm water, milk or tea and drink it over the course of the day. Alternatively, It can be taken with ghee or clarified butter as well as with honey.
How Shilajit Works?
The minerals and nutrients in Shilajit are in the form of their ions. This means that they are easily and readily dissolved into the human body.
Although It is an herbal supplement, it is still outside the food and drug administration authority. Therefore, there is no conclusive evidence about the manner in which Shilajit aids the body’s metabolism and overall health. However, a number of empirical researches have proven that it does indeed have a very positive overall impact on the health of people who consume it regularly.
How to use Shilajit?
Liquid Shilajit
Liquid Shilajit must not be taken more than 600 mg per day. To ensure that the optimum amount of the medicine is consumed the spoon included in the package must be used to measure a single serving. Liquid Shilajit can be mixed with any other drink except tap water for better absorption.
Solid Shilajit
Solid shilajit can be simply kept in the mouth and swallowed when it starts to melt. If a person does not likes the taste of Shilajit any beverage or water can drink along with it.
Powder Shilajit
It can be dissolved with water or milk and drank up to three times a day.
Precautions and Warnings: When to avoid Shilajit?
With the increasing popularity of Shilajit, there are a number of brands, which are offering it in the market. However, keep in the mind the following advice and take adequate precautions while purchasing and consuming the medicine.
- The medicine has no deciding standard authority for its authenticity and purity. Consumers should exercise caution while buying Shilajit.
- Real and authentic Shilajit is a black sticky, resin-like substance, which would dissolve when subjected to any kind of warm liquid.
- It is available in the market in the form of tablet, powder, and capsules. Although some of these might be effective and reliable, it is best advisable to consume Shilajit in its original form, which is in the sticky resin like form. Some of the powders and capsules might include artificial additive and chemical substitutes, which are harmful to the body, and are against the very notion of what real, natural and organic Shilajit stands for. Even if you buy this medicine in the form of tonic or powder ensure that you read the list of ingredient and ensure that the product contains Shilajit as the main or primary ingredient.
- Beware of Shilajit product available on cheap prices. Real Shilajit is sourced with much difficulty and effort, so if it is available for a cheap price, it might not be real.
Substitutes of Shilajit:
There are no known herbal substitutes for Shilajit. However, there are a lot of herbal supplements in the market for strength, vitality and increasing the metabolism of the body.
Interactions:
There are no known or proven interactions between Shilajit and other medications. However, if you are under medication for other medical conditions, always ensure that you consult your doctor regarding the intake of Shilajit. If you feel any adverse effects after consuming Shilajit, consumption should be stopped at once and the doctor’s consultation should be sought.
Suspension:
Shilajit is available in liquid forms under various brand names such as
• Goldplus Liquid Shilajeet Mineral Pitch
• Pure Himalayan Fresh & Liquid Shilajit 50 Servings by Himalayan
FAQs:
1) Can Shilajit be consumed during pregnancy?
Ans: There are no conclusive studies done on this topic. Patients should consult with the doctor.
2) Can breastfeeding women consume Shilajit?
Ans: There is no conclusive information available on this topic. Doctor’s consultation is required.
3) Is Shilajit used for genitourinary and nerve disorders?
Ans: Yes, It is often consumed for the treatment of genitourinary and nerve disorders. However, it should not be used without the consultation of the doctor.
4) How much time does Shilajit take to show improvement?
Ans: 1 month and the same day has been reported as the most common time which Shilajit takes to show improvement in the condition of the patient. This may not be indicative of what you might experience.
5) What is the frequency of use of Shilajit?
Ans: It can be consumed once or twice a day. This is, however, not reflective of how you should consume it. The correct dosage should be consulted with the doctor and you should follow the dosage and duration recommended by the doctor.
6) Can I consume Shilajit empty stomach, or should it consume before or after food?
Ans: Commonly, It is consumed after food. It can be consumed on an empty stomach or before food, but it should be consumed with the recommendation and advice of the doctor.
7) Can I drive a vehicle or operate heavy machinery after consuming Shilajit?
Ans: If you are experiencing drowsiness, dizziness, and headache after consuming Shilajit, you should avoid driving a vehicle, or operating machinery of any kind. If the medicine lowers the blood pressure, then it is not recommended to operate machinery. It is also advised not to consume alcohol with this medicine as it might lead to hypotension. Always consult your doctor regarding your condition.
8) Is Shilajit addictive in nature?
Ans: Medicines generally do not come with the potential for addiction. Any medicine that falls in the category of controlled substances is labeled as H or X. Consult the packaging of the medicine to ensure that the medicine does not fall under any such category.
9) Can the use of Shilajit stop immediately?
Ans: Some of the medicines have a rebound effect when stopped immediately. For recommendations regarding your health, body type, and condition advice of the doctor should be followed.
10) Is Shilajit safe for consumption by anyone?
Ans: Yes, authentic and pure Shilajit is absolutely safe for consumption by adults. However, children should not be given any doses.
11) How should Shilajit be stored?
Ans: It should be kept in a cool, dark place and away from direct sunlight. It should be stored away from the reach of children and pets.
12) What are the benefits of Shilajit?
Ans – It is composed of fulvic acid and more than 84 minerals which make it very nutritious. Shilajit has antioxidant properties which help to improve the body’s immunity and memory. the medicine also acts as an energy booster, anti-inflammatory agent and as a diuretic that removes excess fluid from the body.
13) How long does it take for Shilajit to work?
Ans- Some people report feeling energetic within 10 days of consuming the medicine. However, for the maximum benefits, the medicine must be consumed for at least 6 -8 weeks to see the effect.
14) Can Shilajit be taken empty stomach?
Ans- Yes, it is best to consume Shilajit empty stomach in the morning to maximize its absorption.
15) Is Shilajit good for diabetes?
Ans- Yes, it has been observed that Shilajit significantly reduces blood glucose levels and improves the lipid profile.
16) Can Shilajit be taken with honey?
Ans- Yes, It can be taken with honey to alleviate symptoms pertaining to Gastritis or stomach ulcers.
17 ) Can Shilajit be taken with water?
Ans – Yes, It can be taken with water. But care should be taken that the water is not chlorinated as consumption of chlorine is contraindicated with the use of Shilajit.
18) Does Shilajit increase testosterone?
Ans – Yes, daily consumption of Shilajit may boost testosterone levels.
19) Does Shilajit help in weight loss?
Ans – Yes, It can help to reduce fat as it has a high affinity for fat tissues. It has a scraping effect on the adipose fat tissue. Ayurvedic medicine also helps to balance overweight conditions such as obesity and helps to prevent the progression of type 2 diabetes.
20) Can Shilajit and ashwagandha be consumed together?
Ans – Yes, it is absolutely safe to take Shilajit and Ashwagandha together. Often both the ayurvedic compounds are present together in several medicines.
21) Does Shilajit help to increase sperm count?
Ans Yes, studies have shown that regular consumption of Shilajit can help to increase sperm count in men.
24) What is the ideal way of consuming Shilajit?
Ans – Shilajit can be consumed in various ways. It can be consumed every morning on an empty stomach to provide the body with the energy needed for the entire day and to boost the metabolic system of the body, aiding digestion as well as fat burn. One can take a small amount of shilajit and mix it in warm water, milk or tea and drink it over the course of the day. Alternatively, shilajit can be taken with ghee or clarified butter as well as with honey.
25) When is Shilajit prescribed?
Ans – Shilajit is an ayurvedic medicine and may be taken to fight the symptoms of various conditions such as –
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Low level of testosterone in the body
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Anemia caused by the deficiency of iron
• Infertility
• Heart related problems
• High altitude sickness, which leads to symptoms such as insomnia, lethargy, dementia and hypoxia
26) What is the composition of Shilajit?
Ans – Shilajit is composed of Humic substances, dibenzo-alpha-pyrones, selenium and minerals, humins, fulvic acids and humic acids.
