Shilajit: Benefits, Uses, Formulations, Ingredients, Method,

Dosage and Side Effects

by netmeds.com

February 06, 2021

Touted often as the “Destroyer Of Weakness” by Ayurvedic practitioners, Shilajit is one

such herbo-mineral or Rasaoushadhi that has remained a crucial component in the

process of healing since centuries. Sanctified with powerful adaptogenic and aphrodisiac

properties, Shilajit or Asphaltum as denoted in English is not only used for managing

stress and anxiety but also plays a significant role in treating conditions like dysuria,

glycosuria, breathing disorders, urinary disorders, kidney stones, oedema, skin diseases,

phthisis, piles, anaemia, epilepsy, mental disorders, and worm infestation. The main

function of Shilajit is to regulate and improve the functions of the thyroid gland.

What Is Shilajit?

Shilajit is an astonishing sticky tar-like resinous substance that is neither completely

plant nor of animal origin. In nature, Shilajit is a type of mineral pitch that is made up of

humus and decomposed plant remains, exuded from the rocks present in the Himalayas

at an altitude of 1000 to 5000 metres above sea level.

Ancient ayurvedic scriptures detail that in the summer months of Jeshta and Ashada, the

mountains get heated up due to the direct sun rays melting the layers of mountain and

yielding a resin-like semisolid liquid substance known as Shilajatu. But originally, several

million years ago, when the Indian subcontinent collided into the Asian continent, the

Himalayan mountains were formed crushing and trapping the tropical forests in

between the huge boulders. When these components got pressed between massive

layers of rocks for millions of years, they were converted into a tar-like gummy

substance that may be black, brown or white in colour, and look like asphalt. Whenever

there is a crack in the rock due to excessive heat, the material oozes out of it and settles

itself on the rocks. The exuded herbo-mineral, known as Shilajit is rich in minerals and

nutrients and has an abundance of bio-active humic and fulvic acid. These are found in

high altitude mountains of Kashmir, Bhutan, Japan, Gilgit and Tibet.

Common Names Of Shilajit

Shilajit is usually known as Asphaltum, Black Bitumen, or Mineral Pitch in English. Other

names that refer Shilajit in Ayurveda in other states within India includes Silajat,

Shilajatu, Silajatu, Kanmandam, Saileya Shilaja, Moomie, Moomiyo, Punjabinum,

Memiya, Shiladhatuja, Adrija, Shilasweda, Shilaniryasa, Asmaja, Asmajatuka, Shilamaya,

Girija, Gaireya.

Ayurvedic Indications Of Shilajit

Ayurveda, the holistic science of herbal remedies has extensively mentioned the use of

this time-tested compound multiple times in several ayurvedic scriptures and journals of

Charaka and Susruta. It is mostly indicated for use in the following conditions which

include, Prameha (manages diabetes), Mehahara (treats urinary tract disorders), Rasayani

(rejuvenates the whole body), Medhya (improves intelligence), Balya (improves muscle

strength), Deepana (enhances stomach fire), Pachana (helps in digestion), Rochana

(stimulates appetite), Vamana (prevents nausea and vomiting), Shonitasthapana

(prevents bleeding), Pandu (treats anaemia), Varnya (improves complexion), Kshayajit

(treats tuberculosis), Vayasthapana (prevents ageing), Jvara (useful in fever), Anulomana

(improves breathing), Kasahara (Relieves cough, Shwasha (relieves breathing difficulties),

Amahara (treats indigestion), Dahahara (relieves burning sensation), Trutahara (relieves

excessive thirst), Gulmajit (useful in abdominal tumours), Hikkanigrahana (controls

hiccups), Kantya (relieves sore throat), Triptighno (relieves pseudo-satiation), Hridaya

(treats heart problems), Krichra (treats painful micturition), Chakushya (treats eye

problems), Garbhaprada (treats infertility), Vamanopaga (treats emesis), Sangrahini

(treats diarrhoea), Kustha (treats skin disorders), Kamala (prevents jaundice), Krimihara

(relieves intestinal worms), Kanthya (improves voice), Arsha (treats piles), and Pushtida

(good for nutrition).

Types Of Shilajit

The types of Shilajit is characterised from the type of mountainous rocks from which it

exudes:

Rocks containing Gold (Charka Samhita Shilajit):

Shilajit oozing out of these rocks have a Japa (i.e. Hibiscus flower) or reddish colour and

has Madhura and Tikta Rasa and Katu Vipaka.

Rocks containing Silver (Rajat Shilajit):

Shilajit coming out of these rocks are whitish in colour and have a Katu Rasa and

Madhura Vipaka.

Rocks containing Copper (Tamra Shilajit):

The exudation from these types of rocks has a peacock-throat like appearance, i.e.

bluish-purple colour and shows Tikta Rasa and Katu Vipaka.

Rocks containing Iron (Lauha Shilajit):

Considered as the best variety, the exudation looks quite similar to the gum of Guggulu

(i.e. Commiphora mukul) and portrays Tikta and Lavana Rasa and Katu Vipaka.

Chemical Composition of Shilajit

The conformation of this essential mineral compound is basically influenced by

attributes such as the type of plant-species involved, the geological nature of the rock,

surrounding temperature, altitude and humidity of the particular region.

Shilajit usually comprises of 60-80% organic matter, 20-40% mineral matter and 5% of

trace elements. Several reports and scientific data suggest that it contains around 80

bio-active components including fatty acids, benzoic acid, hippuric acid, resin and waxy

materials, albuminoids, gums, and vegetable matter. Being a Phyto-complex, Shilajit

mainly contains (60 – 80%) of humus substances like humins, humic acids and fulvic

acid. Additionally, it also contains triterpenes, sterols, ichthyol, ellagic acid, resin,

aromatic carboxylic acid, 3, 4-benzocoimiarins, amino acids, phenolic lipids, minerals like

silica, iron, antimony, lithium, manganese, calcium, copper, molybdenum, phosphorus,

sodium, zinc, selenium and small amounts of dibenzo-α-pyrones (metabolites derived

from plants, fungi, animal faeces or mycobionts). But the curative and therapeutic

properties of Shilajit mainly comes from the presence of fulvic acid that helps in treating

a wide range of conditions.

How To Purify Shilajit?

Purification or Sodhana as termed in Ayurveda is must when it comes to Shilajit.

Although Shilajit is quite an important mineral in Ayurveda, it can only be used after a

thorough purification method using several herbal tinctures and other compounds. The

presence of impurities in the form of soil, dirt etc reduces the therapeutic and curative

effects of the mineral and makes it unfit for human consumption. The purification

process not only removes impurities and microbes that might reside in the mineral but

also enhances the therapeutic efficacy of the product. Shilajit can be purified using

several methods like using Cow’s Ghee or Dashamoolarishta but the mostly used

standardised method is by Triphala Decoction.

Purification Of Shilajit Using Triphala Decoction

Ingredients:

1 kg Triphala powder i.e.(a combination of Amalaki, Haritaki and Bahera)

64 litres of water

1.5 kg Shilajit pieces

Method:

Mix 1 kg of Triphala powder and 64 litres of water in an iron pot.

Boil this mixture on high flame for some time and then reduce the flame.

Keep checking until the mixture reduces to ¼ of the original quantity.

Remove the pot from the flame and allow it to cool.

Now filter the decoction and keep it in a separate vessel.

Put the shilajit pieces in the filtered triphala decoction.

Allow it to soak for 24 hours.

After the given time, heat the mixture in the iron pot until the shilajit dissolves in the

triphala decoction and float on the surface.

Slowly drain the melted shilajit and filter it carefully.

Heat the obtained melted shilajit on low flame until it becomes thicker in consistency.

Remove the vessel from the flame.

Scrape out the shilajit and keep it under direct sunlight.

After complete drying, the purified shilajit is obtained to be used for therapeutic

purposes.

Shilajit Formulation

Shilajit Capsule Or Gutika

Imbued with a host of medicinal properties and a potent stimulatory effect on the

immune system, this capsule or gutika made from Shilajit and Amla help in treating and

preventing a wide range of anomalies and extensively help in promoting the overall

health and longevity of an individual. Not only does this formulation help in overcoming

general debility but also treat conditions like peptic ulcers, tuberculosis, arthritis,

diabetes, obesity, bronchitis, osteoporosis, rheumatism etc.

Ingredients:

390 mg Purified Shilajit - Asphaltum

50 mg Amla or Indian Gooseberry – Phyllanthus emblica

Method:

Purify the shilajit thoroughly using triphala decoction followed by cow’s ghee.

Wash, clean and cut the amla into small pieces.

Put both the components under direct sunlight until the moisture gets removed.

Put it in a grinder and transform it into a powdered form.

Again put it under the sun to remove any remaining moisture particles.

Sieve it thoroughly using sieve no. 100 to remove impurities and uneven particles.

Roll the powder onto your palm to make circular vatis or use capsule munching machine

for large scale production.

Subject the gutikas or capsules to an air dryer to remove any moisture present in it.

Store it in airtight containers for future use.

Health Benefits Of Shilajit

Manages Diabetes

The outstanding hypoglycaemic property of shilajit plays a key role in regulating the

blood glucose and lipid profiles in diabetes patients, particularly when taken along

with diabetes medications. The production of insulin from the pancreatic β-cells

becomes active in taking shilajit formulations. It helps to reduce the breakdown of

starch into glucose which in turn leads to low blood glucose levels. Also Read: Type 1

Diabetes Mellitus: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Improves Cognitive Functioning

Shilajit is a traditional remedy to increase the functioning of the brain. The presence of

bioactive small molecules called dibenzo-alpha-pyrones prevents the breakdown of the

brain chemicals needed for memory hence enhancing memory capacity, focus,

concentration, calmness, alertness of an individual. Being a brain tonic and stimulator,

people taking shilajit capsules or other formulations have improved memory, reasoning,

problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities and are thus used for treating

Alzheimer’s and other psychotic conditions.

Shields From Intestinal Troubles

The potent anti-inflammatory and purgative properties of shilajit help to suppress the

toxic bacteria Helicobacter pylori and also prevents it from growing in the gut. Owing to

its strong laxative nature and peristaltic effects, it effectively prevents constipation, piles

by softening the stool and facilitating smooth passage through the body. It also

prevents the fluid from drying up in the colon and averts abdominal pain, abdominal

distension, intestinal gas, flatulence, colic, etc. Also Read: Digestive Disorders: 7 Ways

To Improve Gut Health

Remedies Stress And Anxiety

Being a powerful adaptogen, Shilajit is beneficial for treating different types of psychotic

problems like depression, dementia, etc. It stabilises the Vata and Pitta doshas in the

body which in turn keeps the serotonin level under control and helps to reduce various

symptoms of anxiety which includes uneasiness, restlessness, cold hands, and feet, etc.

The potent antidepressant properties of the herb also help in calming the mind,

reducing all sorts of physical and mental stress, irritability and improving energy and

stamina. Also Read: Anxiety Attacks? Here’s How You Deal With It

Promotes Cardiac Functioning

Shilajit is one such herbo-mineral compound that has been found to have a positive

effect on the heart. Imbued with antioxidants and cardio-protective properties, it plays a

crucial role in treating a host of heart ailments. It relaxes the cardiac system, by soothing

the mind, which is extremely advantageous for patients suffering from arrhythmias and

palpitations. It is also beneficial in strengthening the heart muscles, dropping

cholesterol levels in the blood and preventing lipid accumulation, which in turn reduces

the risk of atherosclerosis, heart blocks, heart attacks, blood clots, etc. Also Read: Top

10 Superfoods For A Healthy Heart

Slows Ageing Process

Shilajit is well known for its regenerative effects. Not only does it help in tissue repair

and regeneration but also owing to the potent antioxidant activity, it protects against

cellular damage, and hence reduces the ageing process in the tissues of the heart, lungs,

liver, and skin. The presence of fulvic acid shields the body against free radical damage

and the abundance of antioxidants maintains a balanced ratio of calcium in the bones

making one stronger. Shilajit also bolsters the immune system and prevents infections.

Enhances Fertility And Libido

Shilajit offers a one-shot traditional remedy for boosting libido and improving fertility in

men. It showcases strong aphrodisiac properties that not only helps in reducing mental

stress and anxiety but also stimulates the production of testosterone that increases

fertility and libido. It plays a key role in increasing virility and stamina in men.

Consuming purified shilajit capsules alongside milk before sleeping has been known to

increase blood circulation in the genitals which thereby improves the production of

male hormones like testosterone and luteinizing hormone, thus improving the motility

and quality of sperms in male. Also Read: Shatavari: Benefits, Uses, Formulations,

Ingredients, Method, Dosage and Side Effects

Remedies Pain And Inflammation

The abundance of anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties of the bioactive

ingredients in Shilajit makes it the ultimate choice for providing relief from pain and

inflammation due to arthritis. It is also extremely effective against Rheumatoid

arthritis which is known as Amavata in ayurveda. Amavata is generally caused due to

vitiation of Vata doshas and accumulation of Ama in the joints.

Treats Wounds And Ulcers

The anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties of the bioactive components present in

Shilajit hold high significance in treating different types of ulcers like ulcerative colitis,

peptic ulcer, canker sores or mouth ulcers, etc. It also promotes tissue regeneration and

hence facilitates wound healing.

Prevents Anemia

Anemia is a condition where there is a reduced number of red blood cells or

haemoglobin in the blood or a dysfunctional RBC. The presence of high levels of humic

acid and iron in this herbo-mineral compound is extremely beneficial in improving

haemoglobin levels and RBC count and eventually treating iron deficient anemia.

Facilitates Weight Loss

The abundance of active components in purified shilajit helps the body shed excess

weight faster. When taken regularly, supplements of shilajit helps in satiating sudden

hunger pangs and prevents overeating and hence can play a pivotal role in one’s weight

loss regimen. It also reduces the accumulation of LDL (i.e. Low-Density Lipoproteins or

bad cholesterol) in the body, and activates the genes which helps the body to respond

positively to a workout, thereby improving metabolism and facilitating the body in

maintaining a proper weight.

Rectifies Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a troublesome health condition characterized by intense

fatigue and loss of energy due to physical and mental stress. The quarry of minerals

present in shilajit extensively helps to improve cellular functions in the body, which

ultimately increases energy and eventually treats fatigue syndrome with time.

Effect On Doshas

Shilajit, the celestial exudation from the Himalayas is hallowed with three distinct tastes

namely Katu Rasa (i.e. pungent taste), Tikta Rasa (i.e. bitter taste) and Kashaya Rasa (i.e.

astringent taste). It shows Laghu (i.e. light) and Rukhsha Guna (i.e. dry quality). It

inherently portrays Shita Virya (i.e. cold potency) and Katu Vipaka (i.e. pungent

metabolic taste). Being dry and light, it pacifies the Kapha (earth and water) and Vata

doshas (i.e. air) whereas having a pungent metabolic taste and cold potency, the herb

detoxifies the Pitta (fire and air) doshas. Owing to the essential properties and doshas,

the herb has a positive effect on the various Dhatus (i.e. body tissues) which are Rasa

(i.e. Plasma), Rakta (i.e. Blood), Mamsa (i.e. Muscles), Asthi (i.e. Bones) and Shukra (i.e.

Reproductive Fluids). Also Read: Introduction To Ayurveda: Learn About Vata, Pitta

And Kapha Doshas

Shilajit Dosage

The effective therapeutic dosage of Shilajit may vary from person to person depending

upon the age, body strength, effects on appetite, severity, and condition of the patient.

It is firmly recommended to consult an ayurvedic doctor or practitioner as he or she

would evaluate the patient’s indications, past medical conditions and prescribe an

effective dose for a specific period.

Adults: 250 – 1000 mg or 2 capsules, along with milk or water, twice a day, one empty

stomach in the morning and the other one before sleep or as suggested by the health

care provider.

Shilajit Side-effects

Although the mineral has been studied and researched extensively and is extremely

beneficial in treating umpteen health conditions, it is still necessary to consume the

formulation in the prescribed amount as suggested by the ayurvedic practitioner or

doctor. An excess of it or an impurified version may lead to certain complications. These

allergic reactions can be in the form of burning sensation in the feet, excessive heat

throughout the body, increase in urination, itchiness, hives, dizziness or an increased

heart rate.

Conclusion

Since ancient times, this resinous exudation from the Himalayas has been mentioned in

several ayurvedic scriptures as an ultimate remedy for numerous health anomalies. This

incredible medicinal compound is classified as an adaptogen and helps in normalising

stress and anxiety. Being a powerful aphrodisiac, it improves libido, treats various

infertility issues and improves the reproductive health in both men and women. It also

ensures better functioning of the heart, controls diabetes, aids in digestion, enhances

memory, treats inflammation and thus improves overall stamina and body immunity.