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What is Shilajit?

Christine Hudson
Christine Hudson

Shilajit, also known as silajit, is an herb used in the Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda. This herb is considered an adaptogen, an substance which enhances stamina, stress relief, and strength. Used as a drug in India as far back as ancient times, this herb has been used to purify blood, counteract diabetes, and increase muscle absorption of minerals.

In ancient times, shilajit was used to enhance energy, ward off illness, and increase sexual performance. The "Kama Sutra" mentions the use of shilajit throughout the ages. In more modern times, shilajit has been shown to cleanse the blood, fight off ulcers, and stimulate the immune system among. Some enthusiasts even claim that the herb slows aging dramatically and increases fertility, though these statements have not been substantiated by science.

Ulcers may be treated with shilajit extract.
Ulcers may be treated with shilajit extract.

Studies have shown the benefits of shilajit on diabetes, weight loss, and the immune system. It has been discovered that shilajit is formed by the humification of plants bearing certain resins. This humification occurs inside a rock, and sometimes the herb is expelled by rainwater or ice melt. Other times, it is harvested by human hands. The nature and properties of this herb can vary greatly by plant origin, country, and the type of rock it forms in—many sources believe the best and most potent form of this herb is the Himalayan sort.

In the past, shilajit has been used to increase sexual performance.
In the past, shilajit has been used to increase sexual performance.

Like with most natural supplements, there are some individuals who present the drug as a magical cure-all for many ailments. This may lead many to believe it can cure many serious ailments, when in fact, it may not. While shilajit may improve some areas and offer relief to some ailments, it may not work the same in each person choosing to take it. Things which should also usually be taken into account include the quality of the herb in a chosen supplement and how high the dosage actually is.

Some claim that shilajit may increase fertility.
Some claim that shilajit may increase fertility.

Shilajit contains high levels of certain minerals, such as iron, that are possible to overdose on. These overdoses may pose serious health risks, such as the possibility of liver failure. For this reason, it is typically recommended that a person considering this supplement speak with a nutritionist or health professional first. Some medications or conditions may increase the danger.

Discussion Comments

SarahGen

My husband and I are trying to get pregnant. My husband suffers from low sperm count and after visiting a homeopathy doctor, he was given shilajit. We just returned from the doctor's office and there is a significant improvement in his sperm count and quality since his last check up. This is such an important improvement for us and my husband will continue with the shilajit to get his sperm count higher.

donasmrs

@ZipLine-- Some say that shilajit reduces blood sugar and others say that it does not. I don't think that there are any definite studies done about this.

I used shilajit briefly for its antioxidant benefits. I'm a diabetic so I did check my blood sugar regularly during this time. I noticed that my blood sugar was slightly lower than usual on certain days. But the change was barely noticeable and it was not consistent. It may have to do with the dose as well because I used only a small amount as I was worried about potential side effects. So others may see a greater difference in blood sugar while on shilajit.

As far as I'm concerned, this is not a remedy that I will use to reduce my blood sugar. I think that other natural remedies like ginseng do this more effectively.

ZipLine

I recently discovered shilajit and I'm interested in trying this remedy. I have read about its benefits for sexual performance and hormonal balance, but this is the first time I'm reading that it's beneficial for diabetes.

Has anyone tried it for this purpose? Does it reduce blood sugar?

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    • Ulcers may be treated with shilajit extract.
      By: p6m5
      Ulcers may be treated with shilajit extract.
    • In the past, shilajit has been used to increase sexual performance.
      By: Ivan Montero
      In the past, shilajit has been used to increase sexual performance.
    • Some claim that shilajit may increase fertility.
      By: DenisNata
      Some claim that shilajit may increase fertility.
    • Shilajit may help promote weight loss.
      By: Lsantilli
      Shilajit may help promote weight loss.
    • Some claim that shilajit may slow the aging process.
      By: iceteastock
      Some claim that shilajit may slow the aging process.