What is Shilajit and Where Does it Come From?

Shilajit, also known in the north of India as salajit, shilajatu, mimie, or mummiyo, is a natural, sticky, blackish-brown substance that forms over thousands of years from the slow decomposition of plant matter trapped in the cracks of high mountain rocks, particularly in ranges like the Himalayas and the Altai Mountains. The formation process involves the gradual breakdown of organic material under the influence of microbial activity and unique geological conditions, giving Shilajit its extraordinary properties.

Most commonly found in the Himalayas between India and Nepal, Himalayan Shilajit is considered the purest and most potent due to its high content of fulvic acid and other bioactive compounds. Another highly regarded variety is Altai Shilajit, sourced from the Altai Mountains spanning Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and China. Shilajit can also be found in regions like Russia, Tibet, Afghanistan, and even in northern Chile, where it is referred to as Andean Shilajit. Used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenator and anti-aging compound, Shilajit continues to be celebrated for its numerous health benefits, supporting both physical and mental well-being.

Types and Forms of Shilajit

Shilajit is available in several forms, each affecting its effectiveness and ease of use:

Resin: The purest and most natural form of Shilajit, which is black, sticky, and dense. Traditionally, resin is dissolved in warm water or milk, but it is also used in coffee, tea, or even consumed raw. Consuming Shilajit raw is considered the most effective way, as active compounds start to be absorbed in the mouth, increasing bioavailability.
Capsules: A convenient form in which Shilajit is dried and encapsulated, making dosing easier but potentially losing some active components compared to the resin.
Powder: Easy to add to food or beverages, though it may be less potent than resin due to the drying process.
Liquid Extract: A concentrated form that is quickly absorbed and easy to use, often preferred for its fast action.
Gummies: The least recommended form, as they often contain unnecessary ingredients like sugars or artificial sweeteners and generally have a lower active substance content. Gummies are more suitable for supplements with low daily dosages and mild flavors.

Components of Shilajit

Shilajit is composed primarily of humic substances, which make up 60% to 80% of its content. The primary component of these humic substances is fulvic acid, which typically accounts for 20% to 60% in high-quality products. These humic substances result from the degradation of organic matter, mainly plant material, under the influence of numerous microorganisms. They are categorized as:

Humins: Insoluble in water at any pH.
Humic Acids: Soluble in water under alkaline conditions, supporting cellular health and helping to neutralize free radicals.
Fulvic Acid: Soluble in water across various pH levels, with a low molecular weight that allows for efficient absorption in the digestive tract and rapid elimination from the body. Fulvic acid's strong antioxidant properties support cellular protection and regeneration. For more information on fulvic acid, we invite you to explore our dedicated article here.

Shilajit also contains other bioactive compounds, including amino acids, triterpenes, sterols, fatty acids, polyphenols, and lignins, all of which contribute to its diverse health benefits.

Health Benefits of Shilajit

Shilajit offers a wide range of health benefits, including:

Enhancing cognitive function and brain health
Increasing energy and stamina
Supporting heart health and metabolic balance
Strengthening the immune system
Providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Supporting bone and joint health

To learn more about the scientifically backed health benefits of Shilajit, check out our full article on its properties here.

Is Shilajit Safe for Daily Use?

Shilajit is generally safe for most people when used as directed and when choosing purified products. Consuming unpurified Shilajit carries a risk of toxicity due to the presence of mycotoxins, heavy metals, or polymeric quinones. Therefore, it is crucial to select certified, high-quality products that have been tested for contaminants. We invite you to read our article on how to choose high-quality Shilajit and simple home methods to verify if the product is genuine here.

Safety and Potential Side Effects

While Shilajit is typically considered safe, it can cause side effects in some cases, such as:

Upset stomach
Headaches
Allergic reactions
Lowering of blood pressure

Side effects are often due to consuming contaminated Shilajit and are less likely to occur when using products that meet high-quality standards and are properly purified. Shilajit should be avoided by people with excess iron (hemochromatosis), pregnant women, children, and individuals with heart conditions or low blood pressure without consulting a healthcare provider first.

How to Use Shilajit

The recommended dose of Shilajit usually ranges from 300 mg to 500 mg per day, depending on the form. Resin can be dissolved in warm water, milk (traditional methods), coffee, or tea, or consumed raw for maximum effectiveness, as active compounds start absorbing in the mouth. For best results, Shilajit should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach.

Conclusion

Shilajit is a fascinating, natural supplement with a rich history and a wide range of health-promoting properties. Celebrated for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, it continues to gain popularity for its unique components like fulvic acid and its ability to support both physical and mental health. While generally safe, it is essential to choose high-quality, purified Shilajit to ensure maximum benefits and minimize any risks.

If you're considering adding Shilajit to your daily routine, make sure to do your research and follow best practices for its use. With the right approach, you can harness the full potential of this incredible natural substance, renowned for its longevity-boosting and revitalizing effects. Be sure to explore our other articles for more in-depth information on how to choose and use Shilajit effectively.