Shilajit has the potential to restore energetic balance and alleviate the symptoms of many diseases

In a nutshell….

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information which is a part of the United States National Library of Medicine, a branch of the National Institutes of Health, Shilajit is a natural substance found mainly in the Himalayas. Formed for centuries by the gradual decomposition of certain plants by the action of microorganisms, it is a potent and safe dietary supplement which is said to restore energetic balance and potentially alleviate symptoms of several diseases such as Alzheimer’s, chronic pain, anaemia, eczema, diabetes and some digestive disorders.

It is also said to have wound healing properties on cuts, scars, burns, and other various types of skin damage given that it provides trace minerals the skin needs for repair such as zinc, copper, manganese, magnesium, selenium and silicon.

Recent investigations point to an interesting medical application toward the control of cognitive disorders associated with ageing, and cognitive stimulation.

Fulvic acid, its main active principle, blocks tau self-aggregation, which may open an avenue towards the study of Alzheimer’s therapy.

Appearance

Shilajit is a blackish-brownish resin rich in minerals that comes from layers of rock in several mountain ranges throughout the world, including the Himalayan, Tibetan, and Altai mountains.

The resin is known by other names including:

• Mumie
• Moomiyo
• Mummiyo

Traditional uses of Shilajit

Shilajit is a chief component of ayurvedic medicine. Health benefits such as an increase in longevity, rejuvenating, and arresting ageing have been attributed to it.

Traditionally, the resin is consumed by people from Nepal and the North of India, and children usually take it with milk in their breakfast. The Sherpas who are a population with very high levels of healthy longevity, claim to have shilajit as part of their diet.

Potential Side Effects

There has been limited research to Shilajit although it is sold in many countries. The resin is sold in different forms including capsules, powder, and liquid. There is no scientific evidence that suggests which form is best.

Additionally, there are safety concerns when taking this or any supplement.

There have been some concerns that shilajit may increase the body’s production of uric acid and in turn, exacerbate conditions such as gout.

Shilajit may also increase iron levels, so people with conditions such as hemochromatosis (an excess of iron in the blood) should avoid it.

Consuming raw or unprocessed shilajit isn’t recommended.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised not to consume shilajit in any form.

And as always, please consult your medical professional should you want to include Shilajit as part of your diet.