“Shilajit, Mohave Lava Tube, 2018.04.01 (33)”by Vahe Martirosyan is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Shilajit has an interesting mythology about its origin. Indian scriptures say that when the Gods and the Asuras churned the Primal Ocean to obtain Amrita, they sweated a lot. Their sweat mingled with the divine nectar, which gave rise to shilajit deposits. And it was distributed about the mountains around the world.
What is Shilajit
Shilajit is a sticky substance found predominantly in the Himalayan ranges. It resembles tar and has a color tone of white to dark brown. Containing 85 minerals as well as fulvic and humic acids this rock exudate finds its use in Ayurvedic and Unani medicines.
Humic acid fights inflammation and disease. Acting as a gut guard, it stops toxins before they enter the cells. Thus it boosts the performance of your immune system.
Fulvic acid increases the permeability of cell membranes which results in increased nutrition absorption. Also, it easily binds with water and helps to detox the body.
Shilajit was present for millions of years in high altitudes under specific conditions. As a result, this resinous mass is different from other humic substances.
Many researchers have pointed out that shilajit is of vegetable origin. Cactus like plants grow near the collection areas, and the gum that they exude has a similar composition to shilajit.
The black variety is hugely popular in Ayurvedic medicine. After the cleaning process, this rock exudate obtains a black color with a glossy surface. Also, it has a peculiar smell and a bitter taste. Shilajit is safe as a supplement and would significantly enhance your wellbeing.
Benefits
In the right quantities, Shilaji may provide plenty of benefits to your body.
Boosts brain function
Shilajit may enhance the working of the brain and prevent or slow down Alzheimer’s disease.
The main antioxidant present is
Researchers think that Shilajit may prevent over-accumulation of these proteins and reduce inflammation, thus slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
A research study in the International Journal of Alzheimer’s disease points out that this substance is used for longevity and to slow aging.
Fights fatigue
Feelings of tiredness and fatigue will hamper your progress and thwart your success. Mitochondria considered as the powerhouse of cells gives energy. Its dysfunction may lead to chronic fatigue.
This rocky exudate acts as an adaptogen and reduces stress levels and fatigue. Likewise, it protects the powerhouse mitochondria and boosts energy levels. Thus fights chronic fatigue and exhaustion.
Prolongs your youth
Fulvic acid present in shilajit is a potent antioxidant as well as an anti-inflammatory. Due to these properties, it fights cellular damage and free radicals in the body, which causes aging.
Supplementing this natural nutrient in your diet increases vitality and slows down the aging process.
Treats Anemia
Anemia is a significant concern for women in the reproductive age. Dark brown shilajit has high amounts of iron and humic acid, which may help treat anemia. Mixing shilajit and Indian gooseberry can increase iron in red blood cells.
In a study on rats, researchers discovered that rats which received shilajit for 11 days had more hemoglobin than their counterparts.
Boosts heart health
Shilajit helps to protect your heart health. In a research study, two groups of rats were subjected to heart injury.
One group was administered 200mg of shilajit for seven days. The other group did not receive it. Scientists noted that rats who ate shilajit had less heart damage than their counterparts.
However, shilajit may reduce blood pressure, it’s better to avoid it if you have an existing heart condition.
Fights obesity
Extra weight can stress out your bones and muscles. Researchers found that an oral supplement of Shilajit activated genes in the body that quickly adapted to a new exercise regimen. As a result, one could enjoy less fatigue and more strength over time.
How to use
You can obtain it as a powder form or supplement and mix it with water or milk. Medical News Today advises to take a portion of shilajit in liquid and drink it up to three times a day.
Always check the instructions on the package. The recommended dose of this powder is 300 to 500 milligrams per day; however, have a word with your doctor before you take any natural supplements.
Shilajit tastes bitter and a little earthy. Once you try it, you’ll get used to its taste.
Of course, If your doctor gives you an all-clear, then slowly include it in your weekly health routines. And one day suddenly you’ll have the stamina of a sherpa.