Shilajit: Uses, Side Effects, and More
Shilajit is one of the most popular supplements on the market after it took the internet by storm for its many wellness benefits. Specifically, people claim that shilajit improves sleep, helps cognitive function, and may give an individual more energy.
But where is shilajit found, and what does it really do? Here, we’ll discuss what shilajit is, how it may improve your health, and the different supplement options available.
What is Shilajit?
According to the National Library of Medicine, shilajit, also known as mumijo, is a natural substance found in the Himalayan Mountains that is slowly formed over centuries as certain plants decay.
Shilajit has been used for centuries primarily in Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional Indian medical system. In Ayurveda, shilajit is used as a supplement for rejuvenation and as an anti-aging compound. Some research shows that the benefits of shilajit may vary depending on the specific area where it is retrieved. Currently, shilajit is not FDA-approved.
Benefits of Shilajit / Mumijo
Because everyone is different, supplements can affect different bodies in different ways. Consult with your primary care provider to determine if shilajit is the right supplement for you.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, many of shilajit’s health benefits come from the fulvic acid within it. Fulvic acid has been known to help:
- Improve memory – In some studies, the fulvic acid in shilajit has been shown to decrease symptoms of anxiety and improve cognitive function by increasing attention, memory, and creativity.
- Lessen altitude sickness – The supplement may help with symptoms associated with high altitudes, like tiredness, fatigue, and hypoxia (low levels of oxygen in the blood).
- Promote healthy gastrointestinal function – This supplement may boost healthy bacteria in the gut and allow better absorption of nutrients, which can lessen digestive issues.
- Reduce allergy symptoms – The fulvic acid in shilajit has been shown to prevent inflammation and swelling. This may help limit the negative effects from allergies and hay fever.
Side Effects of Shilajit
While shilajit may have health and wellness benefits, this supplement can come with different side effects, especially due to the lack of regulation in dosing.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, Ayurvedic medicine is associated with high levels of lead, arsenic, and mercury, and there have been instances of lead poisoning in Ayurvedic medication. If taken in large doses, shilajit can contribute to digestive issues, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
As mentioned earlier, consult your primary care provider to discuss taking shilajit, as well as the proper dosage, to avoid these negative side effects.
Shilajit for Men
According to Healthline, shilajit offers some health and wellness benefits specifically for men. These benefits may include:
- Increased testosterone levels – Symptoms of low testosterone levels can include a low sex drive, hair and muscle loss, and fatigue. One clinical study showed that, over a 90-day period, men who took shilajit had higher testosterone levels than men who took a placebo pill.
- Help with infertility – Shilajit may help treat infertility, especially in men. In another clinical study, men who took shilajit for a 90-day period had an increase in their total sperm count, and 12% of the men also had an increase in sperm mobility.
Shilajit for Menopause
Typically, women begin menopause between the ages of 45 to 55. During menopause, women will experience a variety of symptoms like hot flashes, muscle aches and joint pain, weight gain, and more. In some instances, shilajit may lessen the negative effects of menopause. Shilajit may:
- Improve bone density – During menopause, women can lose bone mass, which makes their bones weaker. A study has shown that shilajit may improve bone density which can reduce risk of injury and developing osteoporosis.
- Lessen hot flashes – The high quantities of fulvic acid in shilajit may help ease hot flashes. It may help reduce the severity, duration, and frequency of this symptom.
When to Avoid Shilajit
Some supplements can react poorly with heart medications, blood pressure medications, and blood thinners. Individuals on these kinds of medications should not take supplements without discussing it with their primary care provider.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also not take shilajit or other herbal supplements. Currently, there isn’t enough research to know if it is safe to use shilajit during pregnancy, so it’s best to stay safe and avoid it.
Shilajit Options
If you’re looking to give shilajit a try, there are many different methods you can use to take this supplement. Take a look at a few options below:
- BetterAlt Pure Himalayan Shilajit Resin – This supplement comes in a resin form, and a pea-scoop amount is instructed to be mixed in with water or warm milk. It’s recommended to drink one glass per day, usually before breakfast.
- Shilajit 9000 Panax Ginseng 1500MG – In this product, shilajit is taken in a capsule form. Each capsule contains a mixture of shilajit, ashwagandha, rhodiola rosea, and other natural ingredients. You can choose from caramel, honey, or unflavored options.
- Be Bodywise Pure Himalayan Shilajit Gummies – For those that don’t like pills or mix-ins, consider this gummy option. A recommended serving includes two gummies which total 3,000 milligrams of shilajit per serving.
- Pure Himalayan Shilajit Dry Drops – Similar to the capsules, shilajit can also be taken in dry drops. It’s recommended to take one to two drops orally, letting them dissolve for optimal effectiveness.
