What is Shilajit: Benefits, how to take, dosage, side effects, and more

What is Shilajit?

Shilajit – does it sound like a familiar term? While you may have heard of it, it is likely you don’t know the exact answer to the question “What is Shilajit?”

This sticky, blackish-brown substance is associated with an array of health benefits like boosting sexual wellness, improving vitality and stamina, promoting healthy aging, improving cognitive function, ensuring overall immunity, etc.

The word Shilajit literally translates to “conqueror of the mountains”, hinting at the origin of this mineral-based extract. Found in mountain cracks and crevices, it is formed over centuries of gradual plant decomposition.¹

Deemed as a Maharasa ^{2 3} (classified drug) in the classical texts, Shilajit has been used in the Ayurvedic medicine system for thousands of years. It has been mentioned as a Rasayana compound due to its rejuvenating and anti-aging properties.^{1 2} 

So let’s delve deeper into exploring this Himalayan wonder.

Benefits of Shilajit

According to the Charak Samhita, “There is no curable disease in the universe which is not effectively cured by Silajatu (Shilajit) when administered at the appropriate time, in combination with suitable drugs and by adopting the prescribed method.” ⁴

With that in mind, let’s explore the many health benefits of this mineral.

1. Promotes sexual wellness ⁵

For generations, Shilajit has been the go-to for its ability to promote sexual wellness. With its aphrodisiac properties, it helps boost libido. Shilajit is also known to enhance fertility, improve blood circulation, increase testosterone levels as well as improve sperm quality and motility. It is a well-known remedy to improve stamina and vitality.

2. Detoxifies the body ⁶

Fulvic acid, the major component in Shilajit acts as a carrier molecule that transports nutrients into the tissues. While doing so, it helps in removing deep-seated toxins from the body.

3. Promotes longevity ¹

Ayurvedic texts suggest the presence of regenerative and anti-aging properties in Shilajit. It has long been known to increase physical strength, boost immunity, and promote longevity.

4. Strengthens the bones ^{5 6}  

Some studies suggest that consumption of Shilajit also reduces the recovery time for injured bones. Therefore, it is used to heal fractures and is also prescribed for protection against osteoarthritis.

5. Is enriched with minerals ²

Shilajit contains over 85 minerals in its ionic form. Ionic minerals are charged and therefore get easily absorbed within the digestive tract, providing the body with essential nutrients.

6. Resolves high altitude problems ⁶

Another instance of the wondrous fulvic acid and essential minerals combo in Shilajit is its ability to resolve high-altitude problems. Fulvic acid boosts energy production and prevents cold exposure and hypoxia. It also actively participates in the transportation of essential nutrients to the body, ridding it of lethargy, tiredness, and chronic fatigue.

7. Improves cognitive function ⁵

Studies have shown that Shilajit’s properties extend beyond improving physical strength. It was found that processed Shilajit along with its active components ethyl acetate and fulvic acids boost the ability to learn better and help better memory retention.

What’s more: Facts about Shilajit from an Ayurvedic perspective 

Consisting of 60-80% organic matter, 20-40% mineral matter, and 5% trace elements, Acharyas of the past have dedicated their life to studying this exudate. ⁴ Shilajit is extensively referenced in ancient Ayurvedic scriptures like Hindu Materia Medica, Charaka Samhita, and Susruta Samhita. ⁶

Acharya Charaka explains 4 types of Shilajit. ⁴ These types are based on the stones of 4 types of metals from which it exudes: 

• Swarnadrija: Exudate from rocks containing gold
• Rajatadrija: Exudate from rocks containing silver
• Tamradrija: Exudate from rocks containing copper
• Lauhadrija: Exudate from rocks containing iron

A holistic remedy in nature, Shilajit has anti-inflammatory, antistress, anti-diabetic, anti-viral, immunomodulatory, and analgesic properties. ²

According to Acharyas, Shilajit also finds its use in curing urinary disorders, urinary stones, diabetes, obesity, etc. ⁴

Now that we have explored the amazing benefits of Shilajit, let’s understand how to consume it.

How to Use & Recommended Dosage

It is typically instructed to consume Shilajit by mixing it with milk. There are various forms in which Shilajit can be consumed, namely:

• Resin
• Powder
• Capsules

To ensure optimal health, the recommended Shilajit dosage is about 300-500mg/day. ⁶

However, it is bly suggested to take advice from a medical professional before adding Shilajit to your diet.

Side Effects

Shilajit is generally considered to be a potent and safe supplement. However, there are a few things to consider before adding it to your diet:

1. Ensure the Shilajit you purchase is from a reliable brand
2. Ensure the Shilajit is purified as an impure form of this mineral may cause intoxication ¹

FAQs

Conclusion

In essence, Shilajit emerges as a Himalayan wonder, standing true to one of its many translations, the “destroyer of weakness”.

As a versatile remedy, it not only helps boost sexual wellness, promote longevity, and enhance cognitive function but also delays aging and resolves high altitude problems. 

So, if you are looking for a solution intertwined with Ayurvedic wisdom to boost physical strength and ensure overall health, Shilajit should be your go-to.

Disclaimer

This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment or dietary modification.

References

1. Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity
2. SHILAJIT AN UNIQUE DRUG OF AYURVEDA
3. Shilajit – A Wonder Drug of Ayurveda: An Overview
4. SHILAJEET: A BRIEF REVIEW
5. MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF SHILAJIT: A REVIEW
6. Shilajit: A panacea for high-altitude problems