Shilajit Benefits; 22 of the Best

Here, we are going to dive straight into the Shilajit benefits which you can skip through using the menu below. So far the research has indicated that there are many. I stopped adding to this list at 23, but I’m sure you could find more if you really wanted to.

For those of you who may not know what Shilajit is, it is a black resin that forms naturally as a result of the progressive, and very slow decomposition of plant matter.

We took a closer look at this in a previous article that focused on Shilajit resin and some of the ways it is processed.

Shilajit Benefits

As a brief recap, the best sources of this resin are found high up in the iconic mountains of the Himalayas, and in a few other mountainous areas further north towards the Kazakhstan and Mongolia borders.

Naturally, it has quite a sticky texture, which is why it clings to the high altitude rocks so well. Add to that the higher altitudes being typically colder, which keeps this resin in a solidified form. As you increase the temperature, it becomes more fluid-like.

This miracle of Nature takes centuries to develop under very specific conditions. As a result, Shilajit has a long history of being considered very rare, and therefore valuable.

It has been relied upon in Ayurvedic and Traditional Medicine for centuries. Many people have long looked to it as a consistent and highly effective source of naturally occurring minerals and specific acids needed by the human body.

This supplementary resin is regarded as having positive effects and supporting general health and well-being.

Shilajit is available in many forms which can you easily buy online. These tend to range from resin to liquid and is even available in a powdered form.

Our Pure Mineral Shilajit Resin is in the purest consumable form you can possibly get it. As a resin, it has not been baked, dried, or treated in the way that it typically is in order to add it to capsules or tablets. This also means that there are no fillers or other additives.

Also, as a resin, it is not diluted down into a runny, or water-like liquid form with a reduced concentration or potency. This means you are getting a thick and dense resin that you can use as you see fit.

Being rich in minerals (reported as containing more than 84 minerals) it can be challenging to find elsewhere.

This marvel is also a great source of bioactive components such as Fulvic Acid, Humic Acid and Uronic Acids, lipids, peptides, and amino acids, along with plant-based metabolites and more.

What are the Shilajit Benefits?

It has a long history of being taken by people seeking relief from the general effects of feeling fatigued, right through to the hopeful struggling with Alzheimer’s.

Some of the potential Shilajit benefits that have come to be connected to anecdotal findings and peer-reviewed research have been listed to include those shown below. This miracle resin is understood to help with:

1 – Amplifying the Effects of Medicinal Herbs

Rather curiously, Shilajit is attributed with the ability to improve the efficacy of herbal medicines through the enhancement of their bioavailability in the body. 1

Traditional practitioners say that it acts as a ‘general accomplice’ and it is classified as a ‘yogavaha’ (योगवाह) in Ayurveda, which translates to mean ‘an agent which enhances the property of other drugs’.

According to various sources, it has been suggested that this resin could likely increase the efficacy of Ayurvedic herbs such as: 2

  • Sal or Shala (Shorea robusta) has long been relied upon to kill germs and treat infections and is regarded as a healing agent among others. 3
  • Charoli nut (Buchanania latifolia) is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts as a natural way to treat a range of conditions from fevers, skin disorders, and UTIs to improving voice quality and soothing voice hoarseness in the throat. 4
  • Sweet acacia (Acacia farnesiana) has a range of topical and medicinal uses including chewing to relieve a sore throat and rubbing the flowers on the forehead to relieve headaches. 5
  • Asana (Terminalia tomentosa) is more commonly used in the treatment of chest pain and heart-related ailments.6
  • Catechu (Catechu nigrum) is normally black or pale and used to make medicine to treat a range of problems from diarrhea, indigestion, colitis, and even relief from osteoarthritic pain. 7
  • Myrobalan (Terminalia chebula) is relied upon for pain relief, soothing a sore throat, and relieving congestion to name a few. 8
  • Bala (Sida cordifolia) has been used for treating conditions such as narcolepsy, anemia, EDS, and abscesses. 9

However, the current level of controlled studies on the proven amplification effects of Shilajit is few and far between. Some in the medical research space would argue that the findings are questionable, with the evidence being anecdotal at best.

This is not to say that the research has come to a halt on this miracle of Nature. Consistent studies are being undertaken to explore the potential synergies that Shilajit may have with other herbs.

Take me back up to the Table of Contents.

2 – Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Energy Levels

Another of the shilajit benefits can be seen here for those who suffer from the impacts of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) know all too well the acute extent of tiredness, or fatigue that it can cause. Some compare the feeling of CFS to Adrenal Fatigue.

As a condition that is often struggled with for long-term periods, CFS often makes the simplest of things arduous for the sufferer to do.

If you haven’t experienced what CFS can do, imagine living with the feeling that you’re never fully charged, let alone recharged. The thought of getting the ball rolling even to do the simplest of things can feel very much like a crushing mental and physical weight.

CFS is understood to be the result of associated mitochondrial dysfunction. This is where cells in the body simply cannot produce sufficient energy.

shilajit benefit - chronic disease

For sufferers of CFS, there has been evidence to indicate that Shilajit may reduce certain behavioural symptoms of CFS, and help with the restoration of energy levels. 10 11

Shilajit has also been suggested to have the potential to restore the HPA axis and reduce CFS based on the results from controlled experiments. 12

3 – Antioxidant Properties and Ageing

Looking and feeling younger is something that so many people strive for. The never-ending search for a fountain of youth is not a fruitless quest.

Shilajit possesses various antioxidant properties as a result of the Fulvic Acid found in it. Being key to dealing with free radicals, it may be one of the better ways to maintain vitality, a feeling of youthfulness, and overall good health. 13

shilajit benefits - How to Look Younger Naturally with Shilajit

Referred to as ‘rasayanam’ in Ayurvedic texts, meaning ‘rejuvenator’ this resin is quoted as needing more research in several key areas. Better controls for in vivo studies have been noted as necessary to determine the broader scope of antioxidant properties, even with the in vitro studies returning an abundance of data. 14

4 – Low Testosterone Levels

Testosterone rates are pretty high on the importance scale for most men. As the primary hormone responsible for a healthy libido, testosterone levels need to be maintained for a balanced life consisting of certain extra-curricular activities. 15

Signs of low testosterone levels may show up as:

  • having a reduced sex drive
  • experiencing a loss of hair over time
  • a noticeable reduction in muscle mass
  • increased fatigue levels, and
  • an increase in body fat to name a few

A study published in 2015 on Shilajit benefits for men showed promising results. Taking 100 mg of Shilajit twice daily over 90 days increased total testosterone levels by a significant amount in study participants. 16

shilajit benefits - testosterone levels

Healthy testosterone levels also lead to better mood, verbal memory, and cognitive function, along with helping effective muscle and bone development.

There are some aligned Shilajit benefits in reproductive health for females too. Although, as we are looking specifically at testosterone at this point when combined with estrogen this is understood to help improve libido and the repair of reproductive tissue. 17 18

The reliance on Shilajit as a natural means to boost sexual virility is something that has been known for generations. There isn’t that much of a line in the sand from a gender perspective as the Shilajit benefits for women have shown some great results. Clinical studies into Shilajit’s spermatogenic nature provide some interesting insights for men too.

5 – Antiviral

Research into the broad, yet specific antiviral characteristics of Shilajit has found that tests completed in vitro revealed ‘dose-dependent’ activity that suggests it can inhibit Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV), and Herpes Simplex Type 1 and Type 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2). 19 20

As the results are from in vitro tests numerous commentaries suggest that there is a greater need for in vivo tests in this area.

What’s the difference between ‘in Vitro and ‘in Vivo?

In vitro is where the tests are conducted in a simulated or controlled setting, the most common being observations of chemical and bacterial reactions in test tubes. In vivo is where the tests are conducted within a living organism or being.

Even though many Researchers will say that this resin does appear to have a positive effect, the need for more empirical data is required to back up the claims made in Traditional and Natural Medicine, including Ayurvedic Medicine (which is still seen as broadly anecdotal by many Western Doctors).

6 – Iron Deficiency Anemia

Sufferers of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) know all too well that this can arise as a result of the body’s inability to absorb iron. IDA may also be the result of a diet that is low in iron, or even from a significant loss of blood. Typical symptoms of IDA include: 21

  • feelings of fatigue and weakness
  • feeling cold in the extremities including the hands and feet
  • persistent headaches, and
  • an irregular heartbeat

Shilajit has been used by many to help increase iron levels in the body to address these symptoms.

The results of tests looking at the effectiveness of this resin in treating IDA have been interesting. One such in vivo test was particularly concerned with the potential for iron to build up in the system. 22

Specimen analysis after the test revealed that Shilajit proved to be a suitable dietary supplement when used over an extended period for disorders like IDA.

Take me back up to the Table of Contents.

7 – Heart Health

Turning to this mineral-dense resin as a means to support a healthier heart could prove to be a justifiable proactive precaution for some.

With the rise of cardiovascular complications attributed to how many of us live today, the effects of a cardiac injury can be devastating.

One particular test looked at how Shilajit can reduce the impacts of heart injury, including sustaining cardiac lesions when taken as a precautionary measure. 23

shilajit benefits - heart health

This was evaluated using isoproterenol (ISO) to trigger cardiac events in a group of rats who demonstrated that the doses of Shilajit that were administered provided greater cardioprotective properties.

Even with how Shilajit benefits heart health according to these studies, it is worth noting that you shouldn’t take Shilajit if you have active heart disease. High concentrations of Shilajit may prove to be problematic. Before taking anything, speak with your trusted Doctor or Dietitian. 24

Please note that we do not condone animal testing as a means for evaluating the safety or effectiveness of any product, and up until such a time that there are suitable human studies to refer to, this is all that the broader health community has access to.

8 – Blood Flow and Detoxification

Although the number of clinical studies in this area is limited, there is a strongly held belief in Ayurvedic Medicine that Shilajit benefits the body by improving a range of blood-related functions.

From general circulation to having purifying properties, it has long been trusted to support good blood health.

The general understanding is the presence of Fulvic Acid allows for nutrients taken into the body to be better transported to organs and tissue, along with enabling more effective deep-tissue penetration.

As a result of this process, there is understood to be a detoxification function where the Fulvic Acid takes up available oxygen which is carried deeper into the body allowing it to detoxify and heal more effectively. 25

The connections between oxygen bioavailability and tissue repair have been studied extensively. It could be that as studies in this area progress there is a connection found between the function of Fulvic Acid and the proposed results. 26

9 – Anticancer Activity

By now you may be thinking that this is too good to be true, and wondering if these Shilajit benefits make it some kind of panacea. With all of the wonder drugs and superfoods that seem to pop up, it is a reasonably sceptical thought to have.

But you can be assured that it certainly has a very long and credible history. A history that many people have not yet discovered and learned about. Along with that, the research referenced in this article hopefully helps provide context for the high regard in which it is held by many.

shilajit benefits - shilajit anticancer benefits

Sometimes referred to as Mineral Pitch, it also shows promise according to some Researchers in overcoming certain forms of cancer. 

In a study that looked at how inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis in hepatic cancer cells Researchers concluded that these Shilajit benefits could be effective through its anticancer activity. 27

10 – Good Gut Health

A long history of relying on Shilajit to promote good gut health is not surprising when you consider the findings of the research highlighting various properties it has.

It is understood to have certain anti-ulcer, anti-fungal, and anti-microbial properties which lend to its playing a key part in effective digestive health. 28 29

The properties of Fulvic Acids in this part of the human body are attributed to the redox state that they enable. Thus, supporting a more effective microbiome. 30 31

Check out our article on how through Shilajit gut health may be supported.

11 – Inflammation

A neutrophil is an inflammatory cell that is known to exist where specific disorders or diseases are in the body. They are responsible for significant instances of tissue damage in such cases. 32

Human neutrophils have been studied with a focus on the effects that Humic Acids have on them. These specifically look at where neutrophils are found in the endothelium. The endothelium is a thin membrane that is found to line the inside of blood vessels and the inside of the heart.

Understood to be connected to thrombosis and vasculitis, when these neutrophils are present they can easily adhere to the cells and result in various complications.

Studies into the possible reduction of inflammation through the dose-dependent properties of Humic Acids have long been attributed to products containing Humic Acids by various schools of natural medicine. However, there is a need for further studies to support what is regarded as unproven and anecdotal by various scholars.

shilajit benefits - gut health

Exploration into Potassium Humate (which is the Potassium salt found in Humic Acid), and its effect on neutrophils and inflammation have found that it is effective at blocking complement activation. In this study, Potassium Humate (C9H8K2O4) was also attributed to being able to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines. 33 34

Like other areas in research, deeper studies are needed about the broader scope of potential anti-inflammatory properties arising from the Shilajit benefits.

Take me back up to the Table of Contents.

12 – Obesity

It is widely understood that obesity is of particular concern in Western society. Data provided by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that people in lower socioeconomic segments of Australia have some of the highest rates of obesity in the country. 35

The impacts of carrying extra weight can put a lot of pressure on the body in many ways. Joints and muscles can tire and fail. Bones can become overloaded and experience significant stress. Organs can struggle and even fail under the associated load that comes with dietary choices that contribute to obesity as well as the condition itself. 36 37 38

A study into the effects of Shilajit on the human skeletal muscle transcriptome showed that extracellular matrix-related genes underwent a process of upregulation which is responsible for the control of muscle mechanotransduction. 39 40 41 42

From a preventative perspective, exercise and a balanced diet help to reduce the instances of obesity. During such time that someone is working on their weight and using an exercise regime, the body can undergo heightened physical stress. This is why professional advice must be sought.

In light of that, the information obtained as a result of this study suggests that the impacts of exercise and the subsequent recovery times could be reduced through the oral supplementation of the high-altitude resin.

A study conducted in 2011 into Shilajit benefits for weight loss with Agnimantha revealed that the combination was potent and lacked any adverse effects from a pharmacovigilance perspective. The weight loss effects were described as being ‘statistically highly significant’ across the 66 patients who were diagnosed as being obese on entry into the trial. 43

13 – Diabetes

As an active ingredient in a polyherbal preparation called Diabegon, Shilajit was assessed in a 2014 study and understood to possess antilipidemic and antihyperglycemic properties. Subjects with metabolic syndrome lipid profiles were observed to decrease under treatment. 44 45 46

The reliance on Shilajit in remote and secluded Himalayan communities has seen this resin used in isolation and conjunction with other herbs for centuries. This is not to say that diabetes is nonexistent in the Himalayas, quite the contrary. 47

Western processed foods have infiltrated even the smallest of communities here and had significant health impacts. The social impacts arising from living with diabetes in such distant and inaccessible locations have proven to be particularly taxing. 48

Simply implementing Shilajit into your routine without making other necessary changes is likely to not have a net positive effect. A holistic approach is needed to effect positive change in a meaningful way. This is why the support of a suitably qualified and trusted professional is necessary.

Used as an active ingredient in other commercially available products to treat diabetes, this resin is regarded as having very effective antioxidant properties that help to protect the pancreas’ insulin-producing beta cells from being destroyed.

This then enables the pancreas to secrete larger quantities of insulin when responding to hypoglycemia. It is important to note that regardless of the many studies, Shilajit has not been scientifically proven to cure diabetes. However, some studies show it has the potential to be a safe way to manage diabetes.

The results of a study conducted in 2016 that included 80 patients provided data to support Shilajit’s ability to play a part in effectively managing the signs and symptoms of diabetes, including monitoring changes in blood sugar levels, and glycosylated hemoglobin. 49

14 – Radiation

Exposure to radiation as a part of your day-to-day in the general environment will increase the oxidative stress experienced in your body. Over time, this can cause damage to a range of organs.

On the other hand, there are other types of radiation you may be exposed to that may have a more significant impact on your body.

Radiotherapy, for example, is used in widely practised medical procedures to kill specific forms of cancer. This is the practice that is currently adopted under chemotherapy protocols. However, it can harm many healthy tissues as well.

Researchers are investigating whether Shilajit has the potential to help prevent or reduce the damage experienced as a result of exposure to various types of radiation. An interesting study uncovered findings that showed the consumption of Shilajit provided an increase in ovarian cell health post-exposure to radiation. 50

This study concluded that the blocking of apoptotic pathways was another potential arising from Shilajit under these tests, which could be interpreted as the turning off of cell death pathways, thus, increasing healthy cell survival rates. As the first reported study of its type, this could be argued to be insufficient to hang such bold claims upon in isolation. 51

15 – Addiction

With the hundreds of millions of dollars, and just as many hours spent on treating, managing, and working on overcoming addiction every year globally, it is clear to see that addiction is a big issue. And that’s not taking into account the peripheral impacts on those directly or indirectly connected to an addicted person. 52

Studies were conducted into the isolated and combined effects of Shilajit and other herbs in the treatment of various addictions from alcohol to opioids. Research shows that the analgesic tolerance to morphine can be modified by the administration of Shilajit. This type of data provides scope for further research into how it may support breaking addiction cycles. 53 54 55 56

There are still considerable gaps in understanding the interactions between Shilajit and psychotropic drugs today. These unknowns are something that provides for potential obstructions to progress.

There is a consistent hope among Researchers that the naturally occurring active compounds found within Shilajit may help people overcome a range of addictions. However, in such a small segment of medical research, more emphasis on specific types of studies is needed.

A key part of overcoming any form of addiction is moving through the detoxification process. Historically Shilajit has been considered a good detoxifier with the capability of eliminating toxins, while with prolonged use it is said Shilajit benefits the body by stopping toxins from being produced.

Take me back up to the Table of Contents.

16 – High Altitude Sickness

Traveling through Tibet in 2015 the exposure to altitudes of 3,650 meters (approximately 11,970 feet) and higher above sea level was hard. Even with a progressive increase in altitude over a couple of weeks coming from Kunming (1,892 meters) to Shangri-La (3,160 meters) otherwise known as Diqing, Yunnan, China.

Bakuo East Street, a part of the prayer circuit around Jokhang Temple, Lhasa, Tibet

This was part of a journey undertaken at the time exploring many small towns and villages, hiking through mountainous areas, and learning about traditional medicines. One of the more interesting encounters was with the late Dr. Ho Shixiu, referred to affectionately simply as Dr. Ho, who spoke with my Wife and me about long-trusted natural medicines. 57

Dr. Ho Shixiu in his practice, at the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Chinese Herbal Medicine Clinic in Baisha Village (Baishazhen), Lijiang, Yunnan, China

According to Dr. Ho, Shilajit, the purified resin of what is referred to locally as Chao-Tong or Wu Ling Zhi can help with altitude sickness, and is relied upon by many in the region and further north into various Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures and beyond.

Dr. Ho’s clinic in Baisha Village was approximately 2,200 meters above sea level. At this time we were speaking about many topics and his opinion towards certain practices. In the video below he spoke briefly about cancer and diabetes. I loved the positive mindset communicated in his prescriptions, which he kindly let me photograph.

During the first three days while in Lhasa, Tibet, I found that I was struggling with the simplest of things as a result of the altitude. Bending over and putting on shoes was followed by sitting down for a moment, then slowly moving to a standing position. Anything that required me to bend over caused significant dizziness at this altitude.

I flicked through my diary notes where I had recorded information about the herbal remedies that Dr. Ho had suggested and made my way to one of the pharmacies that carried this. It was in a capsule where I had Shilajit in a powdered form with other herbs that I found relief from the effects of the high altitude sickness. This proved to be very effective up to Everest Base Camp 1, and back to Lhasa again.

Interestingly, others travelling with me were relying on prescription medication for high altitude sickness which provided them with no relief. I was aware that exposure to higher altitudes without suitable acclimation can trigger a range of symptoms, including:

  • Pulmonary Edema
  • Insomnia
  • Lethargy
  • General body pain
  • Dementia
  • Hypoxia, and more

Altitude sickness can be triggered by low atmospheric pressure, cold temperatures, or high wind velocity. With good reason, Researchers think that Shilajit benefits may include it helping you overcome high altitude problems. Given that it is found to naturally occur in these areas, I’m not surprised that Nature planned this so well. 58

Take me back up to the Table of Contents.

17 – Nootropic Potential

According to Ayurveda, Shilajit is a “medha rasayana” or “enhancer of memory and learning.” In one study, purified Shilajit exhibited putative apoptogenic activity where it was concluded that it increased learning and memory consolidation in rats. The nootropic and anxiolytic activities observed as a result of this study suggest that they may be effective when looking to ameliorate cognitive deficits. 59

Other novel investigations have concluded that there are neuroprotective properties to be garnered from this resin which are believed to be effective agents against a range of cognitive disorders.

As touched upon in the previous sections of this article, more high-quality human studies with standardised and purified Shilajit formulations are needed before we can draw any conclusions.

Shilajit has been combined with other nootropics to leverage the amplification effects they possess. More common examples of combinations see the resin in a powdered form with Lion’s Mane and Chaga. In the following sections, we will take a closer look at specific areas of mental health and brain function in particular detail.

18 – Brain Function

Head injuries all too often come with a range of complications. It is not unusual for these to include damage to blood vessels in the brain. These types of injuries have a direct impact on the noticeable increase in oxidative stress borne on the brain, which can cause long-term health problems. 60

In animal studies, Shilajit has been found to help reduce damage to the brain after experiencing injury and speed up recovery by increasing antioxidant levels. Additionally, Scientists are exploring whether this resin can improve brain blood flow and reduce pressure in the brain. 61

Another antioxidant element that is understood to support brain function and health, particularly when under stress, is Ellagic Acid. As a natural polyphenol, Ellagic Acid protects against oxidative damage with particularly more effective results arising from pretreatment. 62

19 – Seizures

A study undertaken in 2015 revealed data with some interesting findings that may provide hope for those who suffer from a range of seizures. The most commonly known of which is arguably Epilepsy.

Looking at the potential antipsychotic and antiepileptic effects associated with pretreatment, it was found that after fifteen days, the inhibiting effects of Shilajit on induced seizures demonstrated a reduction in stereotypical behaviours. This could be the result of reducing the stimulatory effects of Apomorphine (C17H17NO2) on dopamine receptors. 63

Resultant observed reductions in the frequency and severity of seizures, along with a shortened recovery time is very interesting, to say the least.

Under this study, Shilajit was also found to be potentially effective in inhibiting seizures where the reduction in antipsychotic activities may have resulted from gamma-aminobutyric acid mimetic actions and anti-dopaminergic characteristics. 64

This provides an interesting flip-side to the discussion around increasing dopamine levels, which we will touch on in the next section looking at stress and anxiety. 65

The body requires a healthy balance in everything to perform at optimal levels, and too much of a good thing can cause complications. Hence, there is such a thing as too much dopamine.

Dopamine is understood to influence how your brain regulates awareness of your surroundings. When exposed to too much dopamine reality could effectively become distorted. This distortion may be identified as an application of a type of hyper-meaning, or psychosis. 66

This is just one illustration of why you must seek professional advice before making any changes to your diet or choosing to make Shilajit a part of your day.

Take me back up to the Table of Contents.

20 – Stress and Anxiety

It is not uncommon for us to experience stress and anxiety as a part of our day-to-day. Particularly in the current climate given the pressures that we have seen from 2020 and into 2021, stress and anxiety are on the rise. 67 68

I firmly believe that anything that can be done to reduce exposure to stress and anxiety will be more effective than simply treating it in isolation while remaining in the state or environment that causes it. Applying complementary ways to manage stress and anxiety is also very high on the list.

Researchers have considered how the consumption of Shilajit could lend to changing dopamine in the brain. Where dopamine levels are too high, the potential antidopaminergic properties of Shilajit may help with providing a means of achieving balance.69 70

In the previous section where we looked at the potential of how Shilajit benefits breaking patterns of addiction, this was in conjunction with Withinia Somnifera, which you may know better as Ashwagandha (winter cherry or Indian ginseng). 71

The understanding from another study is that this combination could support a reduction in experienced anxiety and subsequent detrimental effects of stress. Interestingly, much of this is attributed to the nutritional value and antioxidant properties of the combination.

21 – Alzheimer’s Disease

As a progressive brain disease, Alzheimer’s is known to cause significant problems with cognitive impairment. Thinking is greatly affected, behaviour changes are acute, and memory is impacted to debilitating levels.

Some drugs can be taken to lessen the impact of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, but you’re probably reading this because you believe that an ounce of prevention is worth more than a ton of cure. And we agree.

Studies have found that the composition of Shilajit may hold the key to hope for many through preventative measures, or even through slowing the progression of existing Alzheimer’s. But, what is it about the brain that can cause this disease to set in?

Neurofibrillary tangles are understood to form as a part of a process where tau molecules no longer operate in their normal way. In short, they detach from microtubules and begin to stick to another tau, thus interfering with synaptic communication between neurons through the tangle causing blockages. This is where there is effectively a change to the hardwiring of the brain.

Shilajit is understood to have the potential to block the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, known as ‘tau’ from forming in the brain. This is through Shilajit processing antioxidant properties within the Fulvic Acid component which supports the anti-aggregating of tau protein.

Researchers have surmised that as a result the disease progression could be slowed significantly. Although it is not a cure for the disease, taking Shilajit is understood to assist by providing a means for slowing the degradation of the brain and cognitive function. However, more research into this natural resin is needed.

Tau proteins themselves are not bad. They are an important part of your nervous system, but when they don’t function as intended this can result in compilations, and can trigger brain cell damage.

Take me back up to the Table of Contents.

22 – Anti-Hangover Properties

For a whole range of the points raised in the studies referenced in the previous sections, Shilajit is considered to be a great hangover recovery substance. The energy boost that it can provide assists in getting out of bed and starting your hangover recovery.

It has three main effects that can assist with hangover recovery.

  1. Shilajit has detoxifying properties, which can assist in sweating out or purging toxic alcohol from the body.
  2. Shilajit possesses properties leading to better hydration.
  3. Shilajit is full of beneficial minerals. In combination with supporting hydration, the body’s ability to recover is increased significantly. 72

Many advocates that there are a range of specific health ailments that can be treated or mitigated with regular consumption of Shilajit

23 – Arthritis

As covered broadly in the preceding sections, Shilajit benefits the body through strong anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great treatment for arthritis. Reducing inflammation in the body will assist in the reduction of pain caused by arthritis.

As a soluble resin, it is easy to consume and can provide relief to arthritis sufferers in a simple, safe, and efficient manner. Since it can have a very bitter taste, this provides an opportunity to pair it with other anti-inflammatory ingredients for better taste and further health benefits. Turmeric is a good example to pair it with. 73

Does Shilajit have Negative Effects?

As mentioned in this article and other articles published here, you need to seek specialist advice from a suitably qualified professional before you make any changes to your diet or regimen.

Consuming unpurified Shilajit has the potential to result in detrimental health impacts. The potential presence of toxins and heavy metals along with free radicals is understood to have an intoxication effect.

Shilajit has been suggested by some sources to have potential side effects which can include triggering ADHD in those who are susceptible. But on the same hand, it has been named as an adaptogen that has the potential to help control ADHD. 74

With the lack of evidence, I’ve been able to find to support it triggering ADHD, the jury is still out on that one in my humble opinion, and more research needs to be done.

Some forms of Shilajit can be of very low quality and contain high concentrations of heavy metals. Proper processing and analysis of the final product are necessary to ensure that it is safe.

Sickle Cell Anemia Sufferers

Those who have been diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anemia are typically advised against taking Shilajit by qualified professionals. It is believed that those with Sickle Cell Anemia will likely struggle with the iron content and not be able to process it normally.

The potential for a build-up of iron in the organs, leading to further complications is considered too high a risk for these people. The liver, heart, and endocrine system will likely experience significant pressure from this load.

Thalassemia and Hemochromatosis Sufferers

Also, if you have been diagnosed with thalassemia or hemochromatosis, your trusted Doctor or Dietitian will most likely tell you that Shilajit should not be taken. 75 76

Allergic Reactions

Experiencing an allergic reaction to Shilajit is possible in some cases, although quite uncommon. If you find that you experience skin rashes, an increase in your heart rate, or feeling dizzy, stop taking Shilajit and speak with your practitioner.

Where can I buy Shilajit?

There is a wide range of online retailers who stock Shilajit across the different ways it can be consumed. This can be in the form of resin, powder, liquid, or even a pill. Alternatively, your local health shop may stock it in one form or another.

If you appreciate the content we bring to you through our website and other areas online, we would like to invite you to take a look at our Shilajit which is in resin form. You can go straight to the product page by clicking this link.

References

  1. “Shilajit: A panacea for high-altitude problems” – H. Meena, H. K. Pandey, M. C. Arya, and Z. Ahmed, 2010 [PubMed] [Archive] ↩︎
  2. “Yogavaha, Yogavāha, Yoga-vaha: 5 definitions” – Wisdom Library [Wisdom Library] [Archive] ↩︎
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Last Updated on 1 month by D&C Editorial Team

2 thoughts on “Shilajit Benefits; 22 of the Best”

  1. What do you mean by “active heart disease?” I have five stents and a defibrillator pacemaker. At what point does heart disease become inactive? I have just begun taking shilajit but want to use it wisely.

    • Thank you for your question and adding to the conversation, Naomi.

      Active heart disease as defined by John Wyckoff, M.D. is when the patient is suffering with an infectious type of heart disease which interferes with the normal healthy function of the heart. It’s more of an aggravated state than a recovered state where scar tissue is the main aspect of impediment on heart function.

      For a deeper dive into this, check out the article “What is Active Heart Disease?” which we put together on the back of your question.

      I hope you find this helpful.

Comments are closed.

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About the Author

Matthew has been on an active journey towards living a healthy life from a young age. Influenced by his Grandmother, a practicing Naturopath who served her community from the 1940's to the 1980's, his views on living holistically were shaped from a young age. Growing up in different parts of Australia, his connection with the Ocean and a passion for sustainability comes through in everything he does and shares.

"I'm not a Doctor, and I don't play one on the Internet." - me

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