What is Shilajit?

Shilajit is a natural substance similar to tar. It can range in color from whitish to very dark brown. It contains minerals as well as fulvic acid, a nutrient that appears in some soils and helps plants and soil microbes thrive. Shilajit is sometimes called mineral wax. There are mineral substances similar to shilajit called tar deposits, which ultimately come from sediment. However, it is thought that shilajit is formed from vegetable products. A plant called Royale's Spurge (Euphorbia royleana) often grows near where shilajit is gathered from the rocks and ground. It is thought that decomposition of Royale's Spurge produces Shilajit over time, since the plant has a gum-like substance in it with some similarities to shilajit. 

Shilajit as Medicine/Supplement  

One of the oldest systems of natural medicine in the world is called Ayurveda. It is several thousand years old and originated in India. Ayurvedic medicine has used shilajit for a long time, treating it as a medicine or a supplement. Today, some people still use parts of Ayuvedic medicine, including shilajit. Many proponents of natural healthcare and alternative medicine use shilajit. Small pieces of mostly dried shilajit are dissolved in warm liquid such as milk, honey, melted butter, coconut oil, or even herbal tea. The substance becomes mixed into the liquid and is then taken orally.  

Claimed Benefits 

There are many claimed benefits of taking shilajit, but you should be aware that there are few scientific studies related to the topic yet, so nothing has been proven. There are claims that shilajit may help regulate diabetes, that it can act as a mood stabilizer, that it is energizing, promotes brain health, and helps the immune system. Purifying blood, strengthening bones, and preventing early aging are still more qualities attributed to shilajit. There are also those who say that shilajit can help with spiritual enlightenment as part of a natural, healthy lifestyle. 

Cautionary Note 

Many supplements that are marketed as shilajit are not actually real shilajit. They are either other substances entirely or they are mixed with additives that are said by some to improve it. If you want to try real shilajit, you will have to find a trusted source, and it may be quite pricey. This is because shilajit is a limited resource and is becoming rarer as more of it is harvested. Always check the ingredients and inquire about the product if you can.  

To learn more about shilajit, contact a company like Lotus Blooming Herbs.