Shilajit is a rock exudate, a tar-like substance resulting from the decomposition of minerals and plant matter over a long period of time. Although it may sound rather odd, studies show that shilajit is an incredible source of healthy fulvic and humic acids, among other benefits.
For thousands of years, shilajit has been the cornerstone of traditional and cultural medicines of Russia, Persia, India and the East, which seems to be another case of science confirming ancient wisdom. Shilajit tonics are now available in most health food stores and even online. So we want to look at the allegations and see what it was all about.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit comes from high up in the craggy rocks of the Himalayas, Bhutan and Kashmir. Some shilajit also come from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tibet, China and Russia. It is therefore not surprising that the use of this stone is so common in these cultures.
Elite Himalayan climbers, known as Sherpas, consume the substance for its rejuvenating, anti-fatigue and anti-aging effects. Perhaps their use of shilajit explains their hardiness (even at high altitudes and in cold weather).
The exact composition of shilajit varies depending on the plant life and minerals in specific locations. However, this material has some basic similarities: humic acid, fulvic acid and selenium. It contains many plant-based compounds, including benzoic acid, tannic acid, fiber and other carbohydrates.
What is in the Shilajit?
Shilajit is composed of 50-60% fulvic and humic acids. Research shows that these compounds are ancient sources of organic minerals and trace elements. Because their composition is ancient, man cannot reproduce it.
Humic acid
Humic acid has been shown to fightinflammation, act against infection and regulate disease. It also acts as an intestinal protector, stopping toxins before they enter the cells. Ultimately, this boosts the performance of the immune system.
Fulvic acid
Together, fulvic acid and humic acid are the wonderful twins of the mineral world. Fulvic acid increases the permeability of the cell membrane, which facilitates nutrient absorption. Since fulvic acid binds easily to water, it helps to detoxify the body.
Other components
Fulvic acid and humic acid are not, however, shilajit's only claims to fame. Studies show that the mineral content of Shilajit is important and that other components may also have benefits. Up to 90% of shilajit's mineral content includes potassium, calcium and magnesium, as well as other trace minerals.
The mineral content of Shilajit is important enough that it also determines its color. It can be white, red, blue or blackish brown depending on its mineral content.
Is Shilajit beneficial?
Although most of its health benefits are based on Ayurvedic texts, some animal and cellular studies confirm some of these claims. There are a few small clinical studies that demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of shilajit. Therefore, take these health claims with a grain of salt.
The health benefits of Shilajit through science
Beyond the health benefits of fulvic and humic acids in shilajit, studies have shown some health benefits including:
Helps with fatigue and stress
It acts as an adaptogen. It is essentially a plant material that helps the body adapt and better respond to stress. It also protects the cell's powerhouse (mitochondria), which converts everything we eat into chemical energy. (Without mitochondria, one cannot live!)
Because it acts as an adaptogen and protector of mitochondria, it can help with chronic fatigue and physical exhaustion. In a study of physically exhausted rats, shilajit appeared to reduce physical exhaustion and anxiety. Scientists believe this is because it reduces cortisol levels and protects mitochondria from oxidative damage caused by physical exertion.
Helps in the absorption of iron
Iron deficiency anemia is a common problem in women of childbearing age due to poor absorption in the gut.
Dark brown shilajit contains a high iron content, as well as substances that can help increase iron absorption. Dibenzopyrones and tanoids can keep iron in a state that the gut can easily absorb. A mixture of shilajit and Indian gooseberry can significantly increase iron levels in red blood cells without side effects.
Improves cognitive function and memory
This stone increases levels of neurotransmitters that are important for brain function and memory, including dopamine, acetylcholine, serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. The increase in acetylcholine suggests that shilajit may help with Alzheimer's disease.
Powerful antioxidant
Medical News Today cites shilajit's fulvic acid levels as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory: "As such, it can help reduce free radicals and cellular damage in the body, which are two key factors in aging. Daily shilajit supplementation can contribute to overall vitality and a slower aging process in some people. "
Anti-inflammatory
Shilajit injections in rats help reduce swelling caused by the injection of foreign substances into the paw. In addition, it helps to increase the mucus in the stomach, which can prevent stomach ulcers.
Healthy Heart
Two control groups of rats had heart damage. One group of rats did not receive shilajit before the test. One group of rats was given 200 mg of shilajit for 7 days before their test. Rats that ingested shilajit had significantly less heart damage than other rats.
More research and human data are needed, but it suggests that by incorporating it regularly into your diet, you may be able to protect your heart in the event of cardiac episodes. As always, consult a health care professional before using any supplement regularly.
Normalizes blood sugar and diabetes
In humans, shilajit helps to reduce the dose of medication for diabetes. It also helps normalize glycemia and protect insulin-producing cells from damage, according to two other studies in diabetic rats.
Reduces histamine and allergic symptoms
A cellular study shows that a whole shilajit extract can prevent mast cells from releasing histamines. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that are overly active in allergic diseases. She found that the whole extract was more potent than fulvic acid, humic acid or other shilajit extracts.
Stimulates the immune system
It can also promote the growth of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infection.
Side effects and precautions
A small study on the safety of shilajit appears to be safe in healthy human subjects. Their dose of (up to) 2,000 mg of shilajit treated for 45 days did not result in major changes in physical health and blood chemistry.
Other long-term studies involving doses of 100 to 250 milligrams for up to 90 days also show that shilajit is a safe supplement.
However, there are other possible concerns about its use:
Heavy metal content
Shilajit contains both useful and harmful minerals. In fact, shilajit is banned in Canada because of its heavy metal content. If you suspect that toxic metals are causing health problems, you may want to avoid taking shilajit or talk to a health care professional.
Potential allergic reactions or sensitivity
You may be allergic or sensitive to certain components of shilajit. This may be due to the fact that it contains a large amount of natural benzoate, which may cause sensitivity in some people. In addition, sodium benzoate would be a trigger for ADHD (attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity) in children. So avoid shilajit if ADHD is a health problem.
Quality and purity
When it comes to a valuable substance from the mountains, counterfeit products can be a real concern. If you are going to take shilajit, of course you want to get the best! It should contain a high level of fulvic acid and be tested for toxic metals and contaminants.
Is Shilajit worth drinking?
Definitely decide this with your doctor. Note that it has an earthy taste (as you can imagine) and a little bitter.
Sources
Arnold, LE, Lofthouse, N. and E. Hurt (July 2012). Artificial food colors and attention deficit/hyperactivity symptoms: findings to dye for. Excerpt from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3441937/
Ayilvedic shilajit supplement contains alarming levels of heavy metals containing lead and arsenic: Health Ranger issues consumer warning. (September 12, 2016). Excerpt from https://www.naturalnews.com/055266_shilajit_heavy_metals_health_warning.html