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Shilajit: A Natural Treasure for Health and Wellness
Shilajit is a natural substance with a long history of use in traditional Asian medicine, especially in Ayurvedic medicine;
In the Ayurvedic tradition, shilajit has been used to treat a variety of conditions, such as energy problems, sexual health, and overall balance of body and mind. It is considered a “rasayana,” which is a category of herbal substances believed to promote longevity and well-being.
Mode of Obtaining:
Shilajit is a resinous substance of mineral origin found in the mountainous regions of Asia, especially in the Himalayas, Tibet, Caucasus, Altai and other mountainous areas;
Shilajit is formed from the decomposition of organic plant matter over millions of years. It is produced when minerals and plants decompose under geological pressure. This slow, natural process results in a dark, sticky, nutrient-rich resin.
Here I explain how to obtain shilajit:
To obtain Shilajit, traditional collectors extract it from the rocks and cliffs of the mountains. It is then purified and processed to remove impurities and obtain a high quality product.
Location: Shilajit is found in the fissures of mountain rocks, in high altitude areas and remote regions. It is usually found at altitudes above 3,000 meters above sea level.
Gathering: Harvesting shilajit is a manual process. The collectors go up into the mountains and look for fissures in the rocks where shilajit has accumulated. This process is often dangerous due to adverse conditions in the mountains.
Extraction: Once a source of shilajit is found, it is extracted. Collectors scrape the resinous substance from the rocks and collect it in small containers. Shilajit has a dark color, ranging from dark brown to black, and a sticky texture.
Processing: The collected raw shilajit contains impurities, such as soil and minerals. To obtain purified shilajit ready for use, it undergoes a purification process. This usually involves dissolving in water and filtering to remove impurities.
Drying: Purified shilajit is dried at low temperature to remove excess moisture and obtain a more solid substance. The result is a black resin, which can be pulverized or used as a solid resin.
Properties and Composition:
Shilajit is an exceptionally rich substance in minerals and bioactive compounds. It contains over 85 different minerals, including fulvic acid, humic acid, iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and many more. It also contains antioxidants, amino acids and other beneficial substances.
The following are some of the most common properties and components of shilajit:
Minerals: Shilajit is rich in minerals, including:
Fulvic acid: A key component of shilajit that is believed to have antioxidant properties and may aid in the absorption of minerals.
Humic acid: Another important component that contributes to the antioxidant properties of shilajit and can help in detoxifying the body.
Iron: Shilajit often contains iron in the form of mineral salts, which can be beneficial to blood health.
Calcium: Another mineral present in shilajit that is essential for bone health and other physiological processes.
Magnesium: An important mineral for muscular, nervous and cardiovascular function.
Potassium: Essential for cellular function and blood pressure regulation.
Zinc: Important for immune and hormonal function.
Copper: An essential mineral for blood cell formation and other functions.
Organic compounds: In addition to minerals, shilajit contains a variety of organic compounds, such as:
Fulvic and humic acids: These organic compounds help give shilajit its antioxidant and detoxification properties.
Dibenzo-α-pyrones: Bioactive compounds found in shilajit that have been associated with various health benefits, such as improved cognitive function.
Antioxidants: Shilajit may contain a variety of natural antioxidants that help protect cells from free radical damage.
Ellagic acid: An antioxidant found in some varieties of shilajit that may have anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties.
Trace elements: In addition to the major minerals, shilajit may contain trace elements such as manganese, selenium, strontium, molybdenum and others, which are important for various biological functions.
It is important to note that the exact composition of shilajit may vary depending on its geographical origin and extraction process. Some commercial shilajit products may also be mixed with other ingredients;
Health Benefits:
A number of health benefits are attributed to it, although scientific evidence supporting many of these benefits is still limited and more research is needed. Some of the proposed health benefits of shilajit include:
Antioxidant properties: Shilajit contains antioxidant compounds that may help protect cells from free radical damage, which in turn may help prevent premature aging and certain diseases.
Energy enhancement: Shilajit has been claimed to increase energy and vitality. Some people use it as a supplement to improve physical and mental stamina.
Improved cognitive function: Some research suggests that shilajit may have positive effects on memory, concentration and cognitive function, although more research is needed.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Shilajit is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.
Immune system support: It has been suggested that shilajit can strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight infection and disease.
Hormone balancing: It has been claimed that shilajit can balance hormones in the body, which could be beneficial in cases of hormonal imbalances.
Improved sexual function: In some cultures, shilajit has traditionally been used as an aphrodisiac and has been linked to improvements in sexual function and libido.
Digestive system support: It is believed that shilajit can help relieve digestive problems and promote healthy digestion.
Detoxification: It has been suggested that shilajit may aid in the elimination of toxins from the body and promote the detoxification.
How to Take Shilajit:
The way to take shilajit may vary depending on the presentation of the product, as it comes in different forms, such as resin, powder or capsules. Here is a general guide on how to take shilajit:
Shilajit resin:
Method 1: Break a small portion of the resin (about the size of a pea) and dissolve it in warm water or milk. Mix well until completely dissolved and then drink it. You can take it in the morning on an empty stomach or before going to bed.
Method 2: You can also take the shilajit resin directly by placing a small amount under the tongue and allowing it to dissolve. This will be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
Shilajit powder:
Mix a recommended amount of shilajit powder in water, milk or juice. Dosages vary by product and brand, so follow the directions on the package or consult a health professional. Generally, a common daily dose is 300-500 mg.
Shilajit capsules:
Take the capsules as directed by the manufacturer. This generally involves taking one or two capsules with a meal or as directed by a healthcare professional.
It is important to note that the dosage and the way to take shilajit may vary depending on the brand and concentration of the product, as well as the reason for its use. In addition, it is essential to take into account the following considerations:
Consult a healthcare professional before taking shilajit, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking other medications or supplements.
Be sure to purchase shilajit from a reliable source to ensure its quality and authenticity.
Pay attention to your body and how it reacts to shilajit. Some people may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea or nausea. If this occurs, reduce the dose or discontinue use.
Contraindications and Precautions when taking Shilajit:
Although Shilajit is known for its potential health benefits, it is not suitable for everyone in all circumstances. It is important to be aware of some contraindications and precautions before incorporating Shilajit into your daily routine. Here are some key considerations:
1. Pregnancy and Lactation: It is recommended that pregnant or lactating women avoid the use of Shilajit, as it has not been sufficiently investigated for safety at these stages and may have unknown effects.
2. Chronic Diseases: If you suffer from chronic diseases, such as heart, kidney or liver problems, it is essential to consult a health care professional before taking Shilajit. Interaction between Shilajit and certain medical conditions may be harmful.
3. Medications: If you are taking prescription medications, especially those to treat chronic medical conditions, consult your doctor before using Shilajit. There may be interactions with certain medications that should be evaluated.
4. Allergies: People with allergies to certain components of Shilajit should be cautious. It is important to read product labels and make sure they do not contain ingredients to which you are allergic.
5. Proper Dosage: Shilajit is potent, and taking excessive doses can be harmful. Always follow the product instructions and do not exceed the recommended dosages.
6. Product Quality: Be sure to purchase high quality Shilajit from reliable sources. Product quality and authenticity may vary, so it is important to research and purchase from reputable suppliers.
7. Mild Side Effects: Some people may experience mild side effects such as nausea, diarrhea or dizziness. If you experience any side effects, discontinue use and consult a health care professional.
8. Keep Open Communication: Talk to a healthcare professional before you start taking Shilajit if you have questions or concerns. Medical advice is essential, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
In summary, Shilajit can be beneficial for many people, but it is critical to be aware of contraindications and precautions before using it. Safety and health are a priority, so consult a health professional if you have any questions or concerns before incorporating Shilajit into your supplement regimen.
It is important to remember that the benefits of shilajit can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience the same results.
Always follow the product instructions and, if you have any questions or concerns, consult a healthcare professional for specific guidance.
In conclusion, Shilajit is a gift of nature with a wide range of health benefits backed by traditional medicine and modern research. Its natural mode of procurement and rich composition make it a valuable supplement for promoting overall wellness. It is always advisable to purchase high quality Shilajit from reliable sources for best results.
