Shilajit, the near-mystical "rock sweat" or "stone oil," as it was called by the ancients, is a unique and tar-like substance that exudes from rocks nestled in majestic mountainous regions, notably the Himalayas. Over centuries, it forms through the gradual decomposition of plant matter, resulting in a potent elixir enriched with:
- Chelated vitamins
- Rare minerals
- Trace elements
- Fulvic acid
- Organic acids
- Many other beneficial bioactive compounds
This extraordinary blend gives rise to its exceptional properties and an array of health benefits that have been cherished since time immemorial.
Embraced by Ayurvedic medicine, Shilajit has been revered for its rejuvenating prowess and hailed as a natural treasure in India. The Himalayan mountains, shrouded in pristine purity, provide the ideal environment for the formation and extraction of this wondrous natural substance.
Ayurveda is based on the belief that optimal health and well-being are achieved by balancing the mind, body, and spirit. It encompasses a comprehensive approach to healthcare, focusing not only on the treatment of disease but also on the prevention of illness and the promotion of overall wellness.
The Astonishing Benefits of Shilajit:
- Enhanced Energy and Stamina: Shilajit has long been revered for its ability to boost energy levels and enhance physical performance. It promotes the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of our cells, resulting in improved stamina and endurance. Whether you're an athlete or simply looking to combat occasional fatigue, Shilajit can provide a natural energy boost.
- Cognitive Support: Research suggests that Shilajit may positively impact cognitive function. Its fulvic acid content helps in the transportation of nutrients into the brain, promoting mental clarity, focus, and memory retention. By supporting brain health and optimizing cognitive processes, Shilajit can enhance overall mental performance. Fulvic Acid in Shilajit supports brain health by blocking the development of tau protein. Tau protein buildup on the brain impairs brain cells, leading to learning and memory deficits present in those with neurological conditions.
- Graceful-Aging Properties: The abundance of antioxidants & free-radical fighters found in Shilajit helps combat oxidative stress and slow down the oxidation of our cells and tissues (what many believe is the aging process). Regular consumption of Shilajit has been associated with healthier-looking skin, improved collagen production, and reduced signs of visible aging. By nourishing the body from within, Shilajit supports a youthful appearance and promotes long-term vitality.
- Immune System Support: Shilajit possesses potent immune-support properties, aiding in the body's immune system defenses. It stimulates the production and activity of white blood cells, bolstering the immune system's response to pathogens. By fortifying the body's natural defenses, Shilajit helps maintain overall health and well-being.
- Revitalizing Sexual Health: Considered an aphrodisiac in Ayurveda, Shilajit has been used for centuries to enhance sexual health and vitality. It may help support fertility, healthy testosterone levels in men, and promote hormonal balance in both men and women. By supporting reproductive health and addressing underlying imbalances, Shilajit can rejuvenate and enhance overall sexual well-being. In a study published in the journal Andrologia, researchers examined the effects of Shilajit on male reproductive health. The results showed that Shilajit supplementation played a positive role in supporting testosterone levels, sperm count and motility, and enhanced overall fertility parameters.
- Heart Health: Shilajit may help support the rebuild of damaged cardiac tissue following a cardiac event. Animal studies with Shilajit supplementation demonstrated that Shilajit given prior to cardiac injury provided more favorable outcomes for animals than those not given Shilajit. Shilajit also supports healthy blood pressure, which reduces the heart’s need to work so hard, softening the sheer on arteries and veins. Shilajit also supports optimal blood cholesterol levels.
Ancient Medicine Trends & Scientific Researches
As interest in natural remedies and traditional medicine grows, Shilajit has garnered attention due to its long-standing use in Ayurveda. People are increasingly turning to ancient remedies, seeking natural alternatives to support their health and well-being. Shilajit, with its centuries-old history and deep-rooted association with Ayurveda, has captured the fascination of individuals looking for holistic approaches to their health.
The principles of Ayurveda emphasize the balance of mind, body, and spirit. Shilajit aligns with these principles, as it is believed to possess a multitude of health-enhancing properties. Its traditional use for boosting energy, supporting immunity, and promoting longevity resonates with the growing desire for natural solutions that nurture overall well-being.
Traditionally, Shilajit has been consumed by people in Nepal and Northern India, often mixed with whole milk as part of their breakfast or mixed into herbal teas. The Sherpas, known for their robust health and remarkable longevity, regularly incorporate shilajit into their diet.
Studies have investigated its healthy inflammatory support properties, revealing it is among the best substances in the world for supporting a healthy inflammation balance. Researchers have also explored its effects on cellular health, highlighting its antioxidant activity and ability to protect against oxidative stress. Research indicates that it may scavenge free radicals and reduce the damage caused by oxidative stress, which is associated with the aging process.
Additionally, scientific investigations have examined Shilajit's potential in supporting the structure & function of the body in various states of disease. To that end, Shilajit has shown promising results regarding its role in supporting balanced blood sugar levels & insulin sensitivity. In a study conducted in the U.S, Shilajit significantly supported fasting blood glucose levels by an average of 20% test subjects. Furthermore, Shilajit was found to support insulin sensitivity by increasing glucose transporter expression and enhancing insulin signaling pathways.
Other studies show that Shilajit may have neuroprotective properties, making it a subject of interest in brain health research. In a clinical trial, individuals who received Shilajit supplementation showed a 28% improvement in cognitive function scores compared to the placebo group. Another study revealed that Shilajit has the potential to reduce the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques.
The cardiovascular benefits of Shilajit have also been explored, with studies suggesting its potential in supporting heart health. Research indicates that Shilajit may help support healthy blood pressure, improved lipid profiles, and reduce oxidative damage via free radical neutralization, all of which contribute to cardiovascular well-being.
MicroActive® CoQ10 Enhanced with MicroPQQ® + Shilajit is a triple-action heart health and cellular energy support formula specifically designed to support mitochondrial structure and function while also supporting energy production.
This unique complex contains highly bioavailable micronutrient forms which are universally absorbed much more effectively when compared to standard CoQ10, PQQ & Shilajit alone. The combined ingredients are clinically-studied with results showing dramatic support for short-term memory, focus and cognitive health.
MicroActive® CoQ10 is expertly formulated utilizing PrimaVie®, an organic, purified Shilajit from the Himalayan mountains, rich in Fulvic Acid to maximize your body's absorption of CoQ10 & PQQ. PrimaVie® Shilajit is a nutrient that has been shown to double levels of CoQ10 in mitochondria.
References:
Pandey, B., Rizvi, S. I. (2019). Plant Extracts in Alleviating Cognitive Disorders and Oxidative Stress. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 10, 1356. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01356
Bhattacharya, S. K., Bhattacharya, A., Chakrabarti, A. (2011). Adaptogenic activity of Siotone, a polyherbal formulation of Ayurvedic rasayanas. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 49(2), 126-132. PMID: 21391447
Schliebs, R., Liebmann, A., Bhattacharya, S. K., Kumar, A., Ghosal, S., Bigl, V. (1997). Systemic administration of defined extracts from Withania somnifera (Indian Ginseng) and Shilajit differentially affects cholinergic but not glutamatergic and GABAergic markers in rat brain. Neurochemistry International, 30(2), 181-190. doi: 10.1016/s0197-0186(96)00065-8
Stohs, S. J., Ray, S. D. (2014). A Review and Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Shilajit (Mumiyo). Phytotherapy Research, 28(4), 475-499. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5019
Schepetkin, I. A., Xie, G., Jutila, M. A., Quinn, M. T. (2009). Complement Fixation by Flavonoids: A Functional Classification of Botanical Natural Products. Journal of Natural Products, 72(4), 706-714. doi: 10.1021/np800618j