What is Shilajit?

Shilajit is a sticky, black tar-like resin rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, offering a wide range of potential health benefits.

It is a natural substance found in the Himalayas. Microorganisms have decomposed certain plants for centuries, forming it, a supplement that restores energy balance and prevents several diseases.

Over the centuries, Shilajit has been praised as a natural powerhouse in traditional medicine in Ayurveda. It’s known as the “Destroyer of Weakness” and called for its ability to enhance stamina and vigor, it has earned a reputation, particularly in the domain of sexual wellness. But this age-old substance is far more versatile than many realize.

Clinical studies have confirmed that it delivers benefits far beyond sexual wellness. It’s a substance that works, rejuvenating the body on multiple fronts, and a host of health benefits that support overall well-being, energy, cognitive function, and even longevity. ¹

It is often marketed as a remedy for sexual health, but it is so much more. Shilajit is a powerful versatile supplement with wide health benefits like boosting energy levels, supporting immune health and promoting longevity. Its depicts properties like detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidants that make it an essential addition to the wellness regimen.

Pure Shilajit resin is a treasure of nutrients and compounds that work together to rejuvenate the body.

Shilajit Uses and Benefits

Helps Manage Diabetes

Shilajit’s exceptional property in maintaining low blood glucose levels makes it a powerful ally in managing diabetes. Taken with diabetes medication, it can help regulate blood glucose levels and lipid levels, offering a natural, supportive solution for those living with the condition.

It works by enhancing the activity of pancreatic β-cells, which are responsible for producing insulin. This increase in insulin production helps the body manage blood sugar levels. It also slows down the breakdown of starches into glucose, which leads to hypoglycemia over the time. ²

Improves Cognitive Functioning and Brain Health

Shilajit, rich in fulvic acid, is a powerful antioxidant which plays a crucial role in protecting the brain from radical damage and oxidative stress. Free radicals are unstable molecules that causes damage to the brain, which leads to loss off memory, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

The presence of bioactive small molecules called dibenzo-alpha-pyrones in it prevents the breakdown of the brain chemicals needed for memory, enhancing memory capacity, focus, concentration, calmness, and alertness in individuals. ³

Shields from Intestinal Troubles/ Improves Gut Health

Shilajit’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties make it highly effective in promoting gut health. It helps suppress the growth of the toxic bacteria like Helicobacter pylori in the gut. It also has natural laxative qualities and ability to improve the movement of the intestines that help prevent constipation and reduces the risk of piles by softening stools and ensuring smooth bowel movement.

It also helps reduce abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas, flatulence, colic and prevent dehydration and by retaining moisture in the colon. Its holistic action supports overall digestive health, making it a valuable remedy for maintaining a healthy gut. ⁴

Alleviates Stress and Anxiety

Being a powerful adaptogen, Shilajit is beneficial for treating various psychological issues such as depression and anxiety. It stabilizes the body’s Vata and Pitta doshas in the body which in turn regulates the serotonin level under control and thus leads to reduction in symptoms like restlessness, uneasiness, and even physical signs such as cold hands and feet.

Its antidepressant properties also help in calming the mind, relieving both mental and physical stress. By promoting relaxation and restoring energy and stamina, it serves as a natural remedy for enhancing overall emotional well-being.⁵ ⁶

Promotes Cardiac Functioning

Shilajit is one such herbo-mineral compound that has been found to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health. Imbued with antioxidants and cardio-protective properties, it plays a crucial role in treating a host of heart ailments. It calms the cardiac system by promoting mental relaxation, making it especially beneficial for individuals dealing with arrhythmias and palpitations.

It also strengthens heart muscles, helps lower cholesterol levels, and prevents lipid buildup, reducing the risk of conditions such as atherosclerosis, heart blockages, blood clots, and heart attacks. It is an invaluable natural support for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. ⁶

Slows Ageing Process

Beyond aiding in tissue repair and regeneration, Shilajit’s powerful antioxidant properties protect against cellular damage, slowing the aging process across the heart, lungs, liver, skin, and more. Oxidative stress accelerates the aging process, leading to wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, and the decline of various bodily functions. It nutrealises these free radicals, and helps slow down the visible signs of aging while also preserving internal health. ⁷

Reduces Pain and Inflammation

Shilajit’s rich anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties make it a powerful remedy for easing pain and inflammation, especially for those with arthritis.

It is particularly effective against Rheumatoid arthritis, or Amavata in Ayurveda, which arises from an imbalance of Vata doshas and the buildup of Ama (toxins) in joints. By addressing these root causes, It provides natural relief, helping to alleviate discomfort and support joint health. ⁸

Treats Wounds and Ulcer

Shilajit’s strong anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties make it a highly effective solution for various types of ulcers, such as peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis, and mouth ulcers. The bioactive compounds in it work to soothe inflamed tissues, promoting faster healing and providing relief from discomfort.

Prevents Anemia

Anemia occurs when there is a decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin, or when red blood cells become dysfunctional. Shilajit, rich in humic acid and iron, is highly effective in boosting hemoglobin levels and increasing red blood cell count, making it a valuable natural remedy for treating iron deficiency anemia. hemoglobin levels and RBC count and eventually treating iron deficiency anemia.

Facilitates Weight Loss

The abundance of active components in shilajit supports the body shed excess weight faster. When taken regularly, components of it helps in satiating sudden hunger pangs and prevents overeating and hence can play a pivotal role in one’s weight loss regimen. It also helps reduce the buildup of LDL (bad cholesterol) and activates genes that improve how the body responds to exercise.

By boosting metabolism and enhancing fat-burning processes, it is a valuable addition to any weight loss routine, helping the body achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Click here to read more on Shilajit Benefits & Uses.

How to Use/ Consume Shilajit?

Image Source: Freepik

Mixing with Water: Dissolve a pea-sized amount of resin in warm water to maximize absorption of its active ingredients. This method makes it easy to consume and ensures efficient uptake by the body.
Having with Milk: Stirring Shilajit into warm milk helps mask its flavor while enhancing nutrient absorption. It also adds to the nutritional value of the milk, making it a nourishing way to take your daily dose.
Sublingual Method: Placing a small amount of Shilajit under your tongue allows for quick absorption directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system for faster effects.
Adding to Herbal Tea: Dissolve resin in your favorite herbal tea for a pleasant, soothing way to incorporate it into your routine, while enjoying the benefits of both the tea and the resin.
Blending with Honey: Combine Shilajit resin with raw honey to create a nutrient-rich paste. This mixture can be consumed directly or added to drinks and meals to keep you energized throughout the day.
With Nut Butters: Mix it with nut butters like almond or peanut butter for a tasty, nutritious option that can be spread on toast, added to smoothies, or enjoyed as a snack.
In Smoothies or Juices: Add it to your favorite smoothies or juices for a delicious, convenient way to enjoy its benefits. It also pairs well with snacks like energy bars or yogurt, offering a healthy boost throughout the day. ⁹

Dosage Recommendation

For maximum absorption, taking Shilajit resin in the morning on an empty stomach is best.
Start with a pea-sized dose, roughly 300 mg to 500 mg. After a few days, gradually increase the dosage to 1 gram per day.
The ideal therapeutic dose of Shilajit can vary based on factors such as age, body strength, appetite, and the individual’s specific health condition. It’s essential to adjust the dosage according to personal needs and the severity of the condition being treated.

Common Home Remedies With Shilajit

Energy Booster

Mix pea-sized with warm water and honey and drink daily.
This drink is a natural booster to increase energy levels in the body and fight fatigue. It is an ideal morning energizer.

Cognitive Enhancer

When consumed with warm milk in the morning, it enhances memory, sharpens mental clarity and boosts concentration throughout the day.

Immune System Support

Shilajit can be dissolved in herbal tea with ginger and lemon. It strengthens the immune system and boosts the body’s defenses against colds.

Conclusion

Shilajit is much more than an ancient remedy—it’s a powerful, holistic solution for enhancing overall health and wellness. From managing diabetes, supporting cognitive function, and improving gut health to relieving stress, boosting heart function, and slowing down the aging process, It’s benefits are extensive and well-rounded. Its healing properties also make it effective in treating wounds, ulcers, and anemia, while its role in weight management further showcases its versatility.

Incorporating pure resin into your daily routine not only helps target specific health concerns but also promotes overall vitality, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. With its remarkable range of benefits backed by traditional wisdom and modern research, it is a natural powerhouse for achieving optimal health in today’s fast-paced world.

References

Ghosal S. Chemistry of shilajit, an immunomodulatory Ayurvedic rasayan. Pure and Applied Chemistry. 1990;62(7):1285–1288.[↩]
Keshari, B., Gupta, V., Tiwari, S., & Murthy, K. H. V. S. S. N. (2016). A comparative study of Shilajatu and Asanadi Ghana Vati in the management of Madhumeha w.s.r. to type-2 diabetes mellitus. AYU (an International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda), 37(2), 120.[↩]
Jaiswal, A. K., & Bhattacharya, S. K. (1992). Effects of Shilajit on memory, anx[↩]
Stohs, S. J., Singh, K., Das, A., Roy, S., & Sen, C. K. (2017). Energy and health benefits of Shilajit. In Sustained Energy for Enhanced Human Functions and Activity (pp. 187-204). Academic Press.[↩]
Surapaneni, D. K., Adapa, S. R. S. S., Preeti, K., Teja, G. R., Veeraragavan, M., & Krishnamurthy, S. (2012). Shilajit attenuates behavioral symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome by modulating the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and mitochondr[↩]
Patil, S. G., Patil, K. A., Sarashetti, R., & Hadimur, K. (2023). Effect of purified Shilajit (Asphaltum punjabianum) on oxidative stress, arterial stiffness and endothelial function in elderly with hypertension: A randomised controlled study. Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 67(3), 197.[↩][↩]
Basu, S. (2024, April 29). Shilajit: Benefits, uses, formulations, ingredients, method, dosage and side effects. Netmeds.[↩]
Lawley, S., Gupta, R. C., Goad, J. T., Canerdy, T. D., & Kalidindi, S. R. (2013). Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic efficacy and safety of purified shilajit in moderately arthritic dogs. J Vet Sci Anim Husb, 1(3), 302.[↩]
Team, C. (2024, April 16). A complete guide to consuming Shilajit for maximum benefits. Deep Ayurveda India.[↩]

Nutrition, Wellness

7 Best Ways To Use Shilajit & Its Benefits