Laura Smith
Shilajit is a blackish-brown powder or tar-like resin formed over centuries from the decomposition of plant matter in the Himalayan region. It is a common component of Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to contain over 85 minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and other organic compounds. While it is considered a safe dietary supplement, raw or unprocessed shilajit may be contaminated with heavy metals or fungi. Therefore, it is important to purchase shilajit from reputable sources and consult a healthcare professional before consumption. Additionally, shilajit is sometimes combined with medicinal mushroom extracts, creating a synergistic blend that offers the benefits of both substances.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A natural phytocomplex with potential procognitive activity |
| Other Names | Salajit, Shilajatu, Mimie, Mummiyo, Mumijo, Mumlayi, Mumie, Mumiay, Mummy |
| Origin | Stony mountains at high altitudes, sheltered crevices and caves |
| Appearance | Blackish-brown powder or exudate |
| Composition | Fulvic acid, humic components, humins, humic acids, dibenzo-α-pyrones, polysaccharides, lignins, iron, vitamins, amino acids, and other organic compounds |
| Benefits | Anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, improves gut health, reduces stress, increases muscle strength, improves male fertility, prevents iron-deficiency anemia, reduces liver damage, improves collagen synthesis, improves altitude sickness, improves cognitive health, increases energy and stamina, improves bone health, improves testosterone levels, improves Alzheimer's symptoms |
| Side Effects | May increase iron levels, may alter hormone levels, raw or unprocessed shilajit may be contaminated with heavy metals or fungi |
| Safety | Purification is critical to remove contaminants, boiling or herbal extraction are traditional methods, modern approaches use laboratory techniques |
| Usage | Sold in dry extract form or dietary supplements, consumed with milk, added to beverages |
| Regions | Himalayas, Pamir Mountains, Afghanistan, Gorno-Badakhshan, Tajikistan, Karakoram, India, Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Caucasus Mountains, Southern Russia, Altai, Central Asia, Iran, Mongolia, Chile, Tibet |
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What You'll Learn
Shilajit's health benefits
Shilajit, a blackish-brown powder, is an organic-mineral product of predominantly biological origin, formed at high altitudes of stony mountains, in sheltered crevices and caves. It has been used in folk medicine in Afghanistan, India, Iran, China, Pakistan, Nepal, Central Asia, and Tibet for thousands of years.
Shilajit is sold in different colours and grades according to the type of metal powders that are added. It is available over the counter and is marketed as a supplement. It is also used as an herbal supplement to improve symptoms of many ailments. It is believed to be a powerful antioxidant phytocomplex that improves cognitive functions by preventing the abnormal accumulation of tau protein, which may damage the brain cells. It is also believed to increase collagen synthesis, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, joints, and muscles as one ages.
Shilajit is also believed to have several other health benefits, such as:
- Improving bone health by increasing bone density and protecting against osteoporosis.
- Helping with altitude sickness by stimulating blood formation, enhancing blood oxygen-carrying capability, and improving nutrient absorption.
- Acting as an anti-inflammatory, an energy booster, and a diuretic to remove excess fluid from the body.
- Helping with iron deficiency anaemia by increasing iron levels.
- Improving cardiac health.
- Improving digestion.
- Improving the health of the nervous system.
- Helping with Alzheimer's disease.
- Helping with kidney stones.
- Helping with hemorrhoids.
However, it is important to note that there is limited evidence of the health benefits of Shilajit, and more research is needed to understand its safety and efficacy. Some side effects and concerns have been noted, such as the possibility of Shilajit increasing iron levels, altering hormone levels, and the presence of heavy metals or fungi in raw or unprocessed Shilajit. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using Shilajit for therapeutic purposes and to avoid using it for prolonged periods.
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Purification process
Shilajit is a blackish-brown powder or a tar-like substance found in high mountain rocks, especially in the Himalayas. It has been used in folk medicine for thousands of years and is believed to have various health benefits. However, raw or unprocessed shilajit may be contaminated with heavy metals, fungi, mycotoxins, and other hazardous substances that can be harmful to human health. Therefore, it is crucial to purify shilajit before consumption to ensure its safety.
The traditional purification process of shilajit involves four key steps: extraction, filtration, purification, and dehydration. During the extraction step, collectors harvest shilajit from high-altitude rock crevices and caves, scraping the substance from the rocks during warmer months when it is softer.
The filtration step involves dissolving raw shilajit in water to separate insoluble impurities such as rock fragments and plant debris. The solution is then filtered through fine cloth or sieves, resulting in a cleaner liquid.
The filtered liquid then undergoes the purification process, which aims to remove any remaining contaminants, including heavy metals. Traditional methods of purification include boiling the liquid or mixing it with herbal extracts. Modern approaches, on the other hand, utilise laboratory techniques to ensure the safety and authenticity of the product. This stage is critical as it addresses safety concerns by removing hazardous substances that may be present in the raw material.
Finally, the dehydration step involves spreading the purified solution thinly and drying it under sunlight or controlled heat to remove moisture. This results in a solid, blackish-brown resin or powder that is suitable for use in traditional medicine or as a dietary supplement. The dehydration process is carefully done to preserve the essential nutrients in shilajit while removing any unwanted moisture.
Some companies, such as Non-Fungible Mushrooms, use a unique cold-temperature purification process that closely mimics nature's refining journey. They evaporate spring water at low temperatures, never exceeding 125°F, to preserve the essential nutrients and create a pure, honey-like resin with a high fulvic acid concentration. Their product undergoes strict purification, ensuring the preservation of fulvic acid and beneficial trace minerals.
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Safety concerns
Shilajit is a blackish-brown powder or exudate from high mountain rocks, especially in the Himalayas. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as a rejuvenator and anti-aging compound.
Shilajit is considered a safe and effective supplement with potential benefits for human health. However, there are some safety concerns and side effects to be aware of:
Heavy Metal Contamination
Raw or unprocessed shilajit may be contaminated with heavy metals, such as lead, which can be hazardous to health. Purification is critical to address this concern, and traditional methods may involve boiling or mixing with herbal extracts, while modern approaches use laboratory techniques to ensure safety.
Increased Iron Levels
Shilajit may increase iron levels, as found in animal model studies. Therefore, individuals with conditions such as hemochromatosis (excess iron in the blood) or thalassemia should avoid consuming shilajit.
Hormone Alteration
Shilajit may alter the body's hormone levels, including a significant increase in testosterone levels. This could potentially impact individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
It is recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women do not consume shilajit.
Medication Interactions
Although there is currently no known interaction between shilajit and medications, the possibility of medication interactions cannot be excluded. Individuals taking medication should consult their healthcare practitioner before consuming shilajit.
Adverse Effects
In the event of any adverse effects, it is advised to discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice.
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History and origin
Shilajit, an organic-mineral product, is formed at high altitudes of stony mountains, in sheltered crevices and caves. It is a blackish-brown powder or an exudate emerging between high mountain rocks. It is predominantly found in the Himalayas, the Pamir Mountains, Afghanistan, the Karakoram, India, Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, the Caucasus Mountains within southern Russia, Altai, Central Asia, Iran, Mongolia, and Lake Baikal.
Since ancient times, shilajit has been used as a folk medicine in Afghanistan, India, Iran, China, Pakistan, Nepal, Central Asia, and Tibet. It has been a part of alternative medicine for more than four thousand years. The healing effects of shilajit for various diseases have been mentioned in the works of Aristotle, Razi, Biruni, and Ibn Sina, among others. In his 1821 publication, D'Herbelot stated that the Persians used a substance called mumiay or mummy as a cure-all for broken bones and diseases. Shilajit is also an important component of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old traditional wellness practice of India. It is classified as a Rasayana, a Sanskrit term for herbs and other health-supportive substances that improve the quality of 'Rasa' or plasma to strengthen the health of all body tissues.
The word 'Shilajit' comes from Sanskrit, meaning 'conqueror of mountains' or 'conqueror of the rocks'. It is also known as 'salajeet' in Urdu, and 'mumijo', 'mumlayi', or 'mumie' in other languages. Shilajit was mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts over 3,000 years ago as the 'destroyer of weakness'. It has been a staple of traditional medicine and an aphrodisiac in several Asian countries for millennia.
Shilajit is formed by the gradual decomposition of certain plants by the action of microorganisms over centuries. It is composed mainly of humic substances, which account for around 60% to 80% of the total nutraceutical compound, and some oligoelements, including selenium, which has anti-aging properties. The humic substances are the result of the degradation of organic matter, mainly vegetal substances, by the action of microorganisms. Shilajit is neither a mineral tar nor a resin, although it resembles them in appearance. It is readily soluble in water but insoluble in ethanol.
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Types of Shilajit
Shilajit is a blackish-brown powder or tar-like substance that emerges from high mountain rocks. It is found in the Himalayas, the Pamir Mountains, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Karakoram, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, the Caucasus Mountains, Altai, Central Asia, Iran, Mongolia, China, Japan, Europe, Australia, South Africa, Venezuela, and Siberia. Shilajit is used in folk medicine and alternative medicine and has been believed to be formed as a result of the decomposition of oil rocks by microorganisms.
The different types of Shilajit are categorized based on the mountainous rocks from which it exudes. Shilajit that oozes out of rocks with a Hibiscus flower or reddish colour is referred to as Japa and has Madhura and Tikta Rasa and Katu Vipaka. Shilajit that comes out of whitish rocks is called Katu Rasa and has Madhura Vipaka. The bluish-purple variety, resembling a peacock's throat, exhibits Tikta Rasa and Katu Vipaka. The most valued variety resembles the gum of Guggulu and is characterised by Tikta and Lavana Rasa and Katu Vipaka.
The form of Shilajit that is chosen depends on individual needs and preferences. The resin form is the most natural and potent, with a thick, sticky texture that is slightly processed to preserve its bioactive compounds. It has a higher concentration of fulvic acid, promoting nutrient absorption and detoxification. However, it has a strong taste and smell, which may be off-putting to some. The solid form of Shilajit is similar to the resin but is dried into a more solid state, making it easier to handle and store. Although less potent, it still retains many of the original minerals and compounds.
Shilajit powder is another option, which is easy to dissolve in drinks or smoothies and offers flexibility in dosages. However, the processing may weaken its potency. For those who prioritise convenience, capsules or tablets are ideal as they are pre-measured and ready-to-consume. These are often combined with other Ayurvedic herbs to enhance their potency, but it is important to check for added fillers or lower concentrations of Shilajit.
The quality of Shilajit depends on factors such as trace mineral composition, purification method, and the region from which it was extracted. The best quality Shilajit is typically found in the Himalayan and Altai ranges due to their high altitudes and rich cultural history. Within the Himalayan Shilajit, there are four main types: red/gold, black, silver (white), and copper (blue). These colours indicate the ores from which the Shilajit was collected rather than the substance's colour.
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Frequently asked questions
Shilajit is a blackish-brown powder or tar-like resin that is formed over centuries from the decomposition of plant matter in the Himalayan region. It is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to provide numerous health benefits.
Shilajit is believed to have various health benefits, including improving cognitive function, increasing muscle strength, boosting testosterone levels, improving bone health, and enhancing athletic performance. It is also said to improve gut health, reduce stress, and provide the body with energy.
Shilajit is generally considered safe, but it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before consuming any new supplement. Shilajit may increase iron levels and alter hormone levels, so individuals with certain conditions, such as hemochromatosis or sickle cell anemia, should avoid it. It may also be contaminated with heavy metals or fungi if it is raw or unprocessed.
Shilajit mushrooms refer to a blend of Shilajit and medicinal mushroom extracts, such as lions mane, cordyceps, and reishi. Medicinal mushrooms are believed to contain bioactive compounds that may provide additional health benefits.
