Shilajit Resin Extract
Also known as: Shilajit, Mumie, Asphaltum
Overview
Shilajit is a complex, naturally occurring substance that exudes from rocks in mountainous regions, particularly the Himalayas. It is a rich source of humic substances, fulvic acid, dibenzo-α-pyrones (DBPs), and minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, Shilajit is valued for its adaptogenic properties and purported health benefits, including enhanced vitality, longevity, and treatment of conditions like diabetes, infertility, and cognitive disorders. It is available in various forms, including powders and purified resin extracts, with standardized products often containing specific concentrations of fulvic acid and DBPs. Research on Shilajit is ongoing, with studies exploring its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. However, more high-quality human clinical trials are needed to fully validate its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
Shilajit has shown potential benefits in several areas. Studies suggest it may increase testosterone levels and improve spermatogenic activity in men, with clinical evaluations indicating increased testosterone in healthy volunteers. It has also demonstrated anti-diabetic properties, reducing fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that Shilajit extract reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss, preserving bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. Secondary benefits include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as immune system modulation, although these are primarily supported by in vitro and animal studies. Effect sizes vary, and the benefits appear to manifest over several weeks to months.
How it works
Shilajit's mechanism of action is attributed to its bioactive compounds, particularly fulvic acid and DBPs. These compounds are believed to enhance cholinergic signaling, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate inflammatory pathways. Fulvic acid acts as a carrier, facilitating the transport of nutrients and minerals into tissues and bones. Shilajit interacts with the endocrine system, potentially increasing testosterone levels and improving insulin sensitivity. It also affects the immune system through its immunomodulatory properties. Furthermore, fulvic acid may prevent the formation of tau protein aggregates, which are implicated in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The bioavailability of Shilajit's active compounds is not well-studied, but it is believed that fulvic acid and other bioactive compounds are absorbed and utilized by the body.
Side effects
Shilajit appears to be safe when properly processed and purified. There are no commonly reported side effects in the available literature. However, using unpurified or improperly processed Shilajit is contraindicated due to the risk of contamination with mycotoxins, heavy metals, and other harmful compounds. Due to limited information on drug interactions, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using Shilajit, especially if taking other medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before using Shilajit due to the lack of specific studies in these populations. While no specific uncommon or rare side effects have been documented, caution is advised, and users should be vigilant for any adverse reactions.
Dosage
Clinical trials have used doses of Shilajit ranging from 200 to 2000 mg daily, but the minimum effective dose is not well-established. A common dosing regimen is 500 mg daily, although some studies have used up to 1000 mg or 2000 mg daily. A study where healthy individuals received 2000 mg of Shilajit for 45 days showed no systemic toxicity, suggesting that this dose may be safe for short-term use. There is no specific timing recommended, but it is often taken once or twice daily. Shilajit is usually processed into a powder or taken in a purified resin form. Standardized products containing ≥50% fulvic acid and ≥10.3% DBPs/DCPs are recommended. The absorption of Shilajit's active compounds may be enhanced when taken with food, but this is not well-studied.
FAQs
Is Shilajit safe to use?
Shilajit is generally safe when properly processed and purified. Ensure the product is free from contaminants like heavy metals and mycotoxins. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
When is the best time to take Shilajit?
There is no specific recommended timing for taking Shilajit. It is often taken once or twice daily, as preferred. Some believe taking it with food may enhance absorption, but this is not definitively proven.
What kind of results can I expect from taking Shilajit?
Some studies suggest potential benefits such as increased testosterone levels, improved blood sugar control, and enhanced bone health. However, individual results may vary, and more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Is Shilajit a cure-all?
No, Shilajit is not a cure-all. While it shows promise in various health areas, its benefits are based on limited human clinical trials. It should be used as a supplement to a healthy lifestyle, not as a replacement for medical treatment.
Research Sources
- https://jptcp.com/index.php/jptcp/article/view/6677 – This systematic review assesses Shilajit's potential in various health conditions, noting that evidence is limited by the quality and number of studies. The review emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific exploration to fully understand Shilajit's clinical efficacy and safety, highlighting the current limitations in high-quality human clinical trials.
- https://examine.com/supplements/shilajit/ – Examine.com provides a comprehensive overview of Shilajit, summarizing available research on its effects on health and well-being. It highlights the potential benefits and mechanisms of action, while also noting the limitations and areas where further research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
- https://jjbs.hu.edu.jo/files/vol17/n1/Paper%20Number%2010.pdf – This study evaluates the impact of purified Shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. The findings suggest a positive effect on testosterone levels, but the study acknowledges the need for more research with larger sample sizes and longer durations to confirm these initial observations.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38133965/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigates the effects of Shilajit extract on postmenopausal women with osteopenia. The study provides evidence for the benefits of Shilajit in bone health, showing reductions in oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss, which helps preserve bone mineral density in this population. However, the study's findings are limited to postmenopausal women with osteopenia, and more studies are needed to generalize these results.
- https://globalresearchonline.net/journalcontents/v59-1/23.pdf – This research explores the anti-diabetic properties of Shilajit, demonstrating its ability to reduce fasting blood sugar and postprandial blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study indicates a significant reduction in blood sugar levels, suggesting a potential therapeutic role for Shilajit in managing hyperglycemia symptoms. However, further research is necessary to fully understand its efficacy and safety in diabetic patients.