Shilajit is a nutrient-rich biomass that oozes from rocks in the Himalayas. Long considered a panacea in Ayurveda, purified Shilajit is made of an intriguing mixture of synergistic compounds. Allegedly, it acts as a rejuvenator, antioxidant, adaptogen, and aphrodisiac. Read on to understand what the science says and how to tell properly purified supplements apart from dangerous low-quality products.<\/p>\n
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Shilajit is a nutrient- and mineral-rich biomass, often classified as a herbomineral<\/i><\/b> due to the complex and eclectic nature of its active compounds [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n As odd as it may sound, this gummy-like organic mass is produced by the mountains. Its color ranges from pale brown to brownish-black and pours out of layers of rocks in many mountain ranges of the world, but it is best-known in the Himalayas [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Given its somewhat mystical origins, it\u2019s no surprise that Shilajit became an essential remedy in many systems of traditional medicine.<\/p>\n Shilajit has been called \u201cAn Ancient Panacea\u201d and a \u201cmiraculous gift of God.\u201d And as most alleged panaceas, Shilajit was renowned for its so-called \u201crejuvenating effects.\u201d It has been used as a general tonic, adaptogen and anti-stress<\/a> remedy among folk healers [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n \u201cShilajit\u201d is a Sanskrit word that translates to \u201cConqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness\u201d or alternatively \u201cthe Winner of rocks.\u201d According to Ayurveda, its properties can heal many illnesses. However, proper scientific evidence is lacking to support the use of shilajit for any condition.<\/p>\n After such appraisal, the appearance and taste of Shilajit may disappoint some. This gooey matter is bitter in taste and has an odor reminiscent of cow’s urine. Shilajit is processed by various supplement manufacturers and sold as capsules or powder [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Additionally, Shilajit supplements have not been approved by the FDA for medical use. Supplements generally lack solid clinical research. Regulations set manufacturing standards for them but don’t guarantee that they’re safe or effective. Speak with your doctor before supplementing.<\/p>\n Shilajit is made of hummus (60 – 80%) and organic plant materials that have been compressed by layers of rocks over time. High pressure and blazing heat metamorphize organic compounds. The warmer temperatures in the summer melt Shilajit, causing it to ooze from cracks in the rocks [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Shilajit contains [R<\/a>]:<\/p>\n Scientists hypothesize that fulvic acid acts as a carrier molecule in the body, helping to transport nutrients into the deep tissues and remove deep-seated toxins.<\/p>\n According to this theory, the bioactive compounds in Shilajit amplify the benefits and bioavailability of other herbs. However, insufficient evidence backs up this concept [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Traditional practitioners sat that Shilajit also supports energy production and tissue recovery, improves blood flow, and reduces the negative impact of psychological and physical stress. Clinical studies are lacking to support these claims [R<\/a>, R<\/a>+].<\/p>\n Although recent research points to fulvic acid and plant metabolites as the main carriers of the benefits, researchers believe that the complex mixture in Shilajit as a whole probably contains many compounds that act in synergy [R<\/a>, R<\/a>+].<\/p>\nHistorical Roots\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/h3>\n
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