What is shilajit?
And what is its origin?
And what does it look like?
And what are its potential benefits?
And what are its harms?
What is shilajit?
Shilajit, a natural substance found mainly in the Himalayas, has been formed for centuries through the gradual decomposition of certain plants by microorganisms, according to a study published in the International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.
shilajit names
Shilajit is also known in North India as salajit, shilajatu, mimie or mummiyo.
In northern Chile, it is called Andean Shilajit.
shilajit form
Shilajit is a blackish-brown powder of high mountain rocks, particularly in the Himalayas between India and Nepal, although it is also found in Russia, Tibet, Afghanistan and northern Chile.
What is the origin of shilajit?
Due to its unique composition as a plant compound very rich in fulvic acid, researchers hypothesize that shilajit results from the decomposition of plant material from species such as Euphorbia royleana and Trifolium repens.
This decomposition appears to occur over centuries, and on this basis, shilajit is a product of nature.
However, other studies have determined that many other plant organisms may breed shilajit, such as "molds".
installation of shilajit
Shilajit is mainly composed of "humic substances", including fulvic acid, which represents about 60% to 80% of the total nutritional complex plus some elements including selenium.
Humic substances are substances formed as a result of the decomposition of organic matter and mainly plant matter, which are the result of the action of many microorganisms.
Possible benefits of shilajit
Before listing the potential benefits of shilajit, we stress here that more research and studies are needed, and that shilajit is not a substitute for consulting a doctor or treatment.
Do not take shilajit without first asking your doctor.
Shilajit and Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive disorder of the brain that causes problems with memory, behavior, and thinking.
Drug treatments are available to improve symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
But based on shilajit's molecular structure, some researchers believe that shilajit may prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease, according to a report in Healthline.
The main component of shilajit is fulvic acid, which is an antioxidant.
Fulvic acid may contribute to cognitive health by preventing the buildup of tau protein.
Tau proteins are an important part of your nervous system, but their buildup can damage brain cells.
Researchers believe that the fulvic acid in shilajit may stop the abnormal buildup of tau and reduce inflammation. However, more research and clinical trials are needed.
Do not give shilajit to an Alzheimer's patient or take it without consulting a doctor first.
Shilajit and low testosterone levels
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, but some men have a lower level than others.
In one study, male volunteers were given a 250-milligram dose of purified shilajit twice daily, versus another group that received a placebo.
After 90 days, the study found that participants who received purified shilajit had a significantly higher testosterone level compared to the placebo group.
Shilajit and aging
Since shilajit is rich in fulvic acid, which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it may also protect against free radicals and cellular damage.
As a result, regular use of shilajit may slow aging.
Shilajit and infertility
In one study, a group of 60 infertile men took shilajit twice daily for 90 days after meals.
At the end of the 90-day period, more than 60% of the study participants showed an increase in their total sperm count.
It also recorded more than 12% increase in sperm motility.
Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm in the sample to move adequately, which is an important part of fertility.
Shilajit side effects
You should not consume raw or unprocessed shilajit.
Raw shilajit may contain heavy metal ions, free radicals, fungi, and other contaminants that can make you sick.
Whether you buy online or from a natural or health food store, make sure your shilajit is purified and ready to use.
Do not take shilajit if you have sickle cell anemia, hemochromatosis (too much iron in the blood), or thalassemia.
It is possible that you are allergic to this supplement.
Stop taking shilajit if you develop a rash, increased heart rate, or dizziness.