What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a natural substance found in the Himalayan rocks. It ranges in color from pale-brown to blackish-brown and has a sticky, gummy texture. Shilajit contains over 84 minerals, including copper, silver, zinc, iron, and lead. It is rich in humus, organic plant materials, and fulvic acid.
Health Benefits of Shilajit
Shilajit is known for its health-boosting properties. It is a natural energy booster that can help improve stamina and reduce tiredness, especially in cases of chronic fatigue and diabetes. It is also known to enhance male fertility by increasing testosterone levels. Shilajit can help with conditions like anemia and memory loss.
What are the synonyms of Shilajit?
Some other names for Shilajit include Asphaltum punjabinum, Black bitumen, Mineral pitch, Silajatu, Shilasweda, and Girija.
How does Shilajit help with fatigue?
Fatigue happens when your body doesn't produce enough energy. Shilajit acts as a revitalizer, helping your cells produce more energy due to the presence of fulvic and humic acid. In Ayurveda, fatigue is called 'Klama,' caused by an imbalance in Kapha dosha. Shilajit helps by providing strength (Balya) and rejuvenating the body (Rasayana).
Tip: Take 1 Shilajit capsule with lukewarm milk after meals, once a day for 2-3 months.
How does Shilajit help with Alzheimer's disease?
Shilajit might reduce the risk of Alzheimer's by decreasing the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain, which are linked to the disease. Ayurveda suggests that Shilajit helps manage Alzheimer's by balancing Vata dosha and strengthening the nervous system due to its Rasayana properties.
Tip: Mix 2-4 pinches of Shilajit powder with honey or lukewarm milk and take it twice daily after meals.
How does Shilajit help with respiratory tract infections?
Shilajit has antiviral properties that may help manage respiratory infections. In Ayurveda, Shilajit balances Vata and Kapha doshas, helping to clear obstructions in the respiratory tract and boosting immunity.
Tip: Take 2-4 pinches of Shilajit powder mixed with honey twice a day after meals.
How does Shilajit help with cancer?
The fulvic and humic acid in Shilajit act as antioxidants, which help destroy free radicals. This can reduce pain during cancer treatment by protecting normal cells from damage.
How does Shilajit help with heavy metal toxicity?
Shilajit contains fulvic and humic acids, which can help detoxify the body by absorbing and removing heavy metals like lead and mercury.
How does Shilajit help with hypoxia?
Hypoxia is a condition where body tissues don't receive enough oxygen. Shilajit's fulvic acid helps in the formation of blood and increases its oxygen-carrying capacity, thus preventing hypoxia.
Precautions and Side Effects
- Immune Disorders: Shilajit may boost the immune system, so consult a doctor before use if you have immune disorders like multiple sclerosis or lupus.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid Shilajit due to a lack of scientific evidence on safety.
- Diabetes: Shilajit may lower blood sugar levels. Monitor your glucose levels if you're taking Shilajit with anti-diabetic drugs.
- Uric Acid: Monitor uric acid levels if using Shilajit, as it can affect these levels.
- High Dosage: Taking too much Shilajit can cause a burning sensation due to increased Pitta dosha.
How to Use Shilajit
- Shilajit Powder: Mix 2-4 pinches with honey or lukewarm milk and take twice a day after meals.
- Shilajit Capsules: Take 1 capsule with lukewarm milk after meals, twice a day.
- Shilajit Tablets: Take 1 tablet with lukewarm milk after meals, twice a day.
- Shilajit Tea: Boil 1.5 cups of water, add ½ teaspoon of tea, and boil for 5 minutes. Strain, add 2 pinches of Shilajit powder, mix well, and drink in the morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Shilajit help with High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)?
Yes, Shilajit may help by reducing brain swelling through its diuretic properties. - Can Shilajit be used to treat anemia?
Yes, Shilajit's fulvic acid helps in iron absorption, reducing anemia symptoms. - Can Shilajit slow down aging?
Yes, Shilajit's antioxidant properties may help prevent cell damage, reducing signs of aging.
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