"Shilajit" is derived from the Sanskrit word "shilajatu," which means "rock invincible." This name refers to the substance's ability to survive extreme conditions and maintain its potency over time. Shilajit has been used for centuries, over 3,000 years, as a "rasayana," a term used in Ayurveda to describe substances that promote health and longevity.
It is composed of organic plant material, minerals, and other compounds and formed over millions of years from the slow decomposition of plant matter in the rocks of the Himalayan and Altai mountains.
Shilajit is a natural substance that is used for various health purposes. It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine as a general tonic to promote overall health & well-being. Some of the most common shilajit health benefits or shilajit use include:
1. Energy Booster: Shilajit is a powerful energy booster that can help to increase endurance & stamina. Athletes often use it to improve their performance, & people who must stay focused & alert throughout the day. It can also help reduce fatigue & increase mental alertness. Traditionally, sherpas use shilajit as a source of energy and nutrition during high-altitude mountaineering.
2. Anti-Aging Properties: Shilajit has been shown to have anti-aging properties that can help to improve skin health & reduce the signs of aging. It contains fulvic acid, which has been shown to help the body absorb & use nutrients more effectively.
3. Immune System Support: Shilajit is also believed to have immune system support properties. It contains several minerals & other essential nutrients for maintaining a healthy immune system.
4. Cognitive Function: Shilajit has improved cognitive function & brain health. It may help improve memory, focus, & concentration, making it a popular supplement for students & professionals.
5. Sexual Health: Shilajit is also believed to have aphrodisiac properties that can help to improve sexual health & function. It may help to increase libido & enhance erectile dysfunction.
6. Anti-inflammatory properties: Shilajit has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling & inflammation in the body. This makes it helpful in treating arthritis, rheumatism, & other inflammatory diseases—also, shilajit benefits for women who suffer from conditions such as arthritis or menstrual cramps.
7. Heart health: Shilajit has been found to improve heart health by reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, & improving blood circulation. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease & stroke.
8. Diabetes: Shilajit has been found to have antidiabetic properties, which can help regulate blood sugar levels & improve insulin sensitivity. This can be helpful for people with type 2 diabetes.
9. Liver health: Shilajit can help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins & free radicals. It can also help improve liver function & reduce the risk of liver disease.
10. Skin health: Shilajit benefits females & males by helping improve skin health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. It also helps reduce the appearance of scars & blemishes.
1. Start Slow: It is important to start with a small dose of shilajit & gradually increase the amount over time. This will help your body adjust to the supplement & reduce the risk of side effects.
2. Choose a Quality Product: Make sure to choose a high-quality shilajit product from a reputable supplier. Look for products that are made from pure shilajit & do not contain any fillers or additives.
3. Follow the Instructions: Always follow the instructions on the product label for dosage & usage instructions. Consult a healthcare professional if you need help taking shilajit for any specific condition.
4. Mixed with Water: The simplest way to take shilajit is to dissolve a pea-sized amount in a glass of warm water & drink it. You can consume this once or twice a day, preferably on an empty stomach.
5. Mixed with Milk: Shilajit can also be mixed with milk to make a nourishing & energizing drink. Simply add a pea-sized amount of shilajit to a cup of warm milk, stir well, & drink. You can add honey or other natural sweeteners to improve the taste.
6. Mixed with Tea: If you're a tea lover, you can add shilajit to your favorite tea blend. Simply dissolve a small amount of shilajit in your tea & enjoy the benefits.
7. Topical Use: Shilajit can also be applied topically to the skin as a part of your skincare routine. You can mix a small amount of shilajit with a carrier oil like coconut oil & massage it into your skin.
While shilajit is generally safe for consumption when taken in appropriate doses, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. Some of the safety precautions & side effect includes:
Consult a healthcare professional before using shilajit if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a pre-existing medical condition.
Shilajit should not be taken by children under the age of 12.
Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
Make sure to purchase shilajit from a reputable source to ensure it is high quality & free from contaminants.
There are also some potential side effects to be aware of. Shilajit is a potent substance & should not be taken in large amounts. Some of the potential shilajit side effects include:
1. Heavy metal toxicity: Shilajit can contain heavy metals such as lead & arsenic, which can be toxic in high doses.
2. Allergic reactions/sensitivities: Some people may be allergic to shilajit & experience rash, itching, or swelling symptoms.
3. Digestive issues: Shilajit can cause digestive issues such as diarrhea, stomach pain, or nausea in some people.
4. Blood sugar issues: Shilajit can lower blood sugar levels, which may be a problem for people with diabetes.
5. Pregnancy & breastfeeding: pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take Shilajit, as it can affect the developing fetus or baby.
6. Increased risk of bleeding: Shilajit can thin the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding. This can be a concern for people who are already taking blood-thinning medication.