Shilajit is an age-old healing remedy that has been around for thousands of years. Containing over 85 vital minerals and trace elements, it offers a plethora of health benefits. Its use stems from Ayurvedic medicine - a practice that is not officially accepted as a licensed form of medicine in the West. However, that’s not to say that Shilajit benefits aren’t valid. In fact, many modern studies support Ayurvedic uses of Shilajit.
Here at Mountainlife, we value the powers of traditional medicine, like Shilajit and can vouch for its benefits. At the same time, we understand that for some, it’s all about the science. With this in mind, we’ve put together a post featuring some of the key Shilajit study findings that have been published in various medical journals over the years. Read on to find out more...
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes problems with memory and thinking, along with behavioural changes. There are currently several drug treatments available to help manage the symptoms.
Shilajit has long been used as an anti-ageing tonic in traditional medicine. Some researchers believe that the molecular composition of the resin also has the potential to prevent, slow and control the progression of cognitive disorders, like Alzheimer’s.
Shilajit is largely made up of a potent antioxidant called Fulvic acid, which supports good cognitive health, by preventing a build-up of tau protein. This protein is crucial to the nervous system, however, a build-up can cause damage to the brain cells.
Researchers believe increasing Fulvic acid in the body (through taking Shilajit) could stop abnormal build-ups of tau protein and minimise inflammation - potentially reducing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Shilajit may also protect, preserve and nourish neurons in the brain, supporting its various functions.
Further information can be found in this article from the International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.
Did you know the production of the male hormone testosterone starts to decrease each year after the age of 30? For some men, the reduction in testosterone is more substantial than others.
Signs of low testosterone include:
While testosterone replacement therapy is an option for some men, it’s often seen as a ‘last resort’ if lifestyle changes don’t work. Lifestyle changes you can make to boost testosterone include eating foods rich in Vitamin D and Zinc, and increasing exercise.
There has also been evidence to suggest that taking Shilajit benefits testosterone levels. In one clinical study of males between the ages of 45 and 55, half were given a placebo and half were given 250mg of Shilajit twice a day. The participants taking the Shilajit were found to have significantly higher levels of testosterone than those taking the placebo.
We’ve already touched on one of the Shilajit benefits for men but we should mention that it is also a safe supplement for improving fertility.
One study examined whether or not Shilajit affected the sperm count of men experiencing infertility (sperm counts of 20 million or less).
60 male volunteers were given 100mg of Shilajit twice a day for 90 days.
While only 28 participants completed the trial, there were significant improvements to their state of fertility. Researchers noted that total sperm count increased, along with sperm motility (the ability to move.) There were also increases in the normal sperm count, serum testosterone and the follicle-stimulating hormone.
From this, researchers concluded that this dosage of Shilajit was safe for consumption as a fertility supplement. Their findings also supported those of traditional and Ayurvedic medicine, where Shilajit has been used as an infertility treatment for thousands of years.
View the full study here.
People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) experience extreme tiredness and fatigue, which can’t be explained by an underlying medical condition. The condition can make it difficult for some people to go to work and school. Simple everyday tasks are a challenge.
While there’s not a single, straightforward way of managing CFS that works for everyone, there are several treatment options which include:
Researchers believe that Shilajit supplements may also help to reduce the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and boost energy levels.
In 2012, a preliminary rat study was published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, which examined the benefits of Shilajit as a treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Researchers gave lab rats Shilajit for 21 days and then induced CFS symptoms by forcing them to swim 15 minutes for 21 consecutive days.
Scientists observed that Shilajit influenced several processes linked with the body’s production of energy. It appeared to reduce symptoms of fatigue, anxiety and mitochondrial dysfunction, all of which are associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
In Ayurvedic medicine, Shilajit is considered an adaptogen. This means it helps defend against stress and can adapt to the specific physical, chemical or biological needs of the body. Essentially, it helps to keep the immune system strong by supporting it in all of its functions.
The use of Shilajit for immune support is backed up by modern medicine. Studies have shown that the compounds in Shilajit essentially act as cell growth factors and immunomodulators.
The Humic and Fulvic acids in Shilajit have been found to promote a healthier immune system and thyroid function in animal model studies.
One research study also noted that Shilajit was capable of fighting off and killing many viruses in isolated environments, including some herpes viruses.
In the spirit of honesty, we’d just like to remind you that while the findings of these studies are significant; until further studies are carried out, we can only say Shilajit ‘might support’ or ‘might help.' It’s not guaranteed. It’s also important to remember that all of our bodies are unique and some people may find that certain supplements benefit them more than others. It’s all about finding out what works best for you!
While medical studies are great, it’s also worth listening to current ‘real-life’ experiences of taking Shilajit. If you fancy hearing what our customers have to say, head on over to our reviews page.
You can also follow Mountainlife on Instagram. We love sharing our customers’ experiences on our stories, along with interesting information about Shilajit benefits! Feel free to tag us in your Shilajit posts and let us know what you think.
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Did you know that an estimated 500 million people meditate worldwide?
For thousands of years, meditation served as a means to find inner peace and interconnection between the mind, body and spirit. During Shamanic rituals in Siberia, meditation is closely linked to spirituality, enlightenment and opening the mind to greater possibilities.
Most people avoid cold showers like the plague, so the thought of cold water swimming might seem like a baffling idea. But did you know there are several physical and mental health benefits of cold water swimming?