Extract Of Black Asphaltum
Also known as: Black Asphaltum, Shilajit, Mumie, Mineral Pitch, Asphaltum punjabianum
Overview
Extract of Black Asphaltum, commonly known as Shilajit or Mumie, is a dark, tar-like resinous substance that forms from the gradual decomposition of plant matter and microbial activity in mountainous rock crevices, particularly in the Himalayas. It is an inorganic and semi-solid herbal substance traditionally used in Ayurvedic and other traditional medicine systems. This natural bioactive mineral supplement contains key compounds such as fulvic acid, humic substances, various minerals, and plant metabolites. Traditionally, it has been applied for bone health, metabolic disorders, and its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties. Modern research is exploring its potential effects on osteoblast proliferation, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and cardiovascular health, with studies indicating dose-dependent effects on cell proliferation and mortality.
Benefits
Research suggests several potential benefits of Black Asphaltum. For bone health, low concentrations (100-200 μg/ml) of mumie extract have been shown to increase proliferation and decrease mortality of human osteoblast-like cells (MG63) in vitro, indicating potential bone regenerative effects, though higher doses were toxic. Animal studies demonstrate significant metabolic improvements, including reductions exceeding 50% in blood glucose and lipid levels, alongside decreased inflammation in diabetic and high-fat diet models with oral Shilajit administration (50-200 mg/kg). Furthermore, Shilajit has exhibited cardioprotective activity in animal models by reducing cholesterol levels and markers of myocardial necrosis (SGOT, SGPT, LDH, CPK). Secondary benefits observed in animal models include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and anti-hyperglycemic effects. These findings suggest potential benefits for individuals with diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases, although human clinical data with established effect sizes and confidence intervals are currently limited.
How it works
Black Asphaltum exerts its effects through several biological pathways. It is believed to enhance osteoblast proliferation by modulating the bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) enzyme. Its potent antioxidant activity helps reduce oxidative stress, while its anti-inflammatory properties mitigate cytokine-mediated damage. The supplement also appears to improve mitochondrial function and ATP production, contributing to cellular energy and overall health. It interacts with various body systems, including the skeletal system by influencing bone cells, the metabolic system by affecting glucose and lipid metabolism, the cardiovascular system through myocardial protection, and the immune system by modulating inflammation. Key molecular targets include the BALP enzyme in osteoblasts, mitochondrial membrane potential, glucose uptake pathways, and inflammatory mediators. Bioactive components like fulvic acid are absorbed orally, with standardized extracts enhancing consistency and potency.
Side effects
The overall safety of Black Asphaltum is generally considered good at low to moderate doses based on animal studies; however, high concentrations have shown cytotoxicity in vitro. Common side effects are not well-documented in clinical settings, and traditional use suggests a low incidence of adverse reactions. Uncommon and rare side effects are not reported in available studies due to limited human data. There are no well-documented drug interactions, but caution is advised when used concurrently with hypoglycemic and cardiovascular medications due to potential additive effects. Contraindications are not formally established, but caution is recommended for pregnant or lactating individuals and those with severe chronic diseases due to a lack of sufficient safety data. Insufficient data also exists for its use in children and the elderly, warranting careful consideration in these special populations.
Dosage
In vitro studies indicate effective doses of 100-200 μg/ml, while animal studies show effective oral doses ranging from 50-200 mg/kg/day. Human equivalent doses are not yet well-established, and standardized extracts are recommended to ensure consistent potency and efficacy. The maximum safe dose for humans has not been determined, though in vitro toxicity was observed at 300 μg/ml. Animal studies typically involve daily oral administration, but specific timing relative to meals is not specified. Standardized extracts are preferred over raw powder forms due to their consistent bioactive content. The absorption of key components like fulvic acid and minerals is enhanced, and the extraction process is critical for potency. No specific cofactors are identified as required for its efficacy.
FAQs
Is Shilajit safe for daily use?
Traditional use suggests safety at moderate doses, but comprehensive clinical safety data for long-term daily use are limited and further research is needed.
How long before benefits appear?
Preclinical studies show effects within days to weeks, but the timeline for observable benefits in humans is not yet clearly established due to limited clinical data.
Can it interact with medications?
Potential interactions exist with diabetes and heart medications, warranting caution and consultation with a healthcare professional before use.
Is extract better than powder?
Standardized extracts are generally preferred over raw powder as they provide a more consistent and concentrated amount of bioactive compounds, improving reliability.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.gov/articles/PMC6971378/ – This in vitro study investigated the effects of mumie extract on human osteoblast-like cells (MG63). It found that concentrations of 100-200 μg/ml increased cell proliferation and decreased mortality, suggesting potential bone regenerative properties, while 300 μg/ml was toxic. The study also noted modulation of the BALP enzyme.
- https://jjbs.hu.edu.jo/files/vol17/n1/Paper%20Number%2010.pdf – This animal study on diabetic Wistar rats demonstrated that oral administration of Shilajit (50-200 mg/kg) over 5 weeks significantly reduced blood glucose levels by over 50%. It also showed improvements in lipid profiles and exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, supporting its potential in metabolic health.
- https://www.florajournal.com/archives/2025/vol13issue3/PartA/12-6-45-253.pdf – This systematic review of animal studies indicated that Shilajit possesses cardioprotective effects. It summarized findings showing that Shilajit reduced cholesterol levels and markers of myocardial necrosis, such as SGOT, SGPT, LDH, and CPK, in various animal models, suggesting a protective role for heart health.
- https://www.himpharm.com/products/single-herb-extracts/shilajit-extract/ – This source highlights the importance of standardized Shilajit extracts for consistent potency and bioavailability. It emphasizes that proper extraction processes are crucial for ensuring the presence and concentration of bioactive components like fulvic acid and minerals, which are key to its therapeutic effects.
