In Ayurvedic medicine, Shilajit is known as adaptogen and has been used for centuries as a rejuvenator, vitality enhancer and as anti-aging compound. Historically, Shilajit has been attributed with ‘miraculous’ effects as a potent and very safe dietary supplement, restoring the energetic balance and potentially able to prevent several diseases. This might be the reason that Shilajit got it’s name, which means conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness.

Background

Shilajit, also known as Shilajatu, Shilajita, Salajeet, Mineral Pitch, Jew’s Pitch, Mineral Wax, Brag-shun, Moomio, Mumie, Mumijo, and Mumiyo is a blackish brown rock exudate, a natural substance, found mainly in Himalayas and Hindukush ranges between India and Nepal, mostly in the 1000-5000m height range. It has been also found in Russia, Tibet, Afghanistan, and now in the north of Chile, named as Andean Shilajit.

 

Shilajit Asmidev

Shilajit – Mineral Pitch

 

Shilajit is formed by the gradual decomposition of certain plants by the action of microorganisms. Considering its unique composition as a phytocomplex, very rich in fulvic acid, researchers hypothesize that Shilajit is produced by the decomposition of plant material from species such as Euphorbia royleana and Trifolium repens10, 11.

This decomposition seems to occur through centuries, and on this basis, Shilajit is considered a millenary product of nature. However, further studies have identified that several other plant organisms may generate Shilajit, such as Barbula, Fissidens, Minium, and Thuidium and other species like Asterella, Dumortiera, Marchantia, Pellia, Plagiochasma, and Stephenrencella-Anthoceros10.

Chemical Composition

Shilajit is composed mainly of humic substances and fulvic acid, that account for around 60% to 80% of the total nutraceutical compound. It also contains oligoelements, including selenium, which is known for its antiaging properties.

Clinical research has indicated that the curative properties, attributed to Shilajit, are provided by the significant levels of fulvic acids in it, considering that fulvic acid is known for its strong antioxidant actions12 and likely has systemic effects as complement activator13.

Shilajit may also consist of plant microbial metabolites that occur in rock rhizospheres. One study has noted that two metabolites present in the Shilajit sample also existed in rhus succedanea and Piszacia inregerrima, two plants that grow in the same region of the Kumaon Hills14.

Other molecules present in Shilajit preparations are eldagic acid, some fatty acids, resins, latex, gums, albumins, triterpenes, sterols, aromatic carboxylic acids, 3,4-benzocoumarins, amino acids, polyphenols, and phenolic lipids15, 16, 17. However, its molecular composition varies from region to region.

Newer investigations based on high-performance size exclusion chromatography (HP-SEC) show that Shilajit contains specific molecular species of polysaccharides and lignins13. Fulvic acids, the main biologically active compound, along with dibenzo-α-pyrones, acts as carrier of other substances15.

Recent studies on the composition of Andean Shilajit in Chile have evidenced an ORAC index between 50 and 500 Trolox units/g of material, which is substantially higher than Noni and blueberries. In this context, Shilajit seems to be a powerful antioxidant phytocomplex.

 

General Health Benefits

Classical Uses of Shilajit in Ayurveda

  • Shilajit is an important component of the ayurvedic medicine due to its characteristics of a rasayana. In this context, health benefits such as an increase in longevity, rejuvenating, and anti-aging roles have been attributed to it.
  • Shilajit is consumed by people from Nepal and the North of India, with milk in their breakfast. The Sherpas, known for their stamina and healthy longevity, claim to have Shilajit as part of their diet.
  • Clinical studies have found Andean form of Shilajit very effective in the treatment of cognitive disorders and as a stimulant of cognitive activity in humans.
  • Other common traditional uses include its action in genitourinary disorders, jaundice, digestive disorders, enlarged spleen, epilepsy, nervous disorders, chronic bronchitis, and anemia.
  • Shilajit has also been useful for the treatment of kidney stones, edema, anorexia and hemorrhoids, as an internal antiseptic.
  • In Ayurveda Shilajit is used as yogavaha i.e. synergistic enhancer of other drugs. Organic components of Shilajit also play a role in transporting different mineral substances to their cellular targets.

Scientific Studies on General Health Benefits of Shilajit

  • Fulvic acid, the main component of Shilajit, is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and memory enhancing properties. Also, it has systemic effects as complement activator12, 13.
  • Recent studies point to its application in the treatment of cognitive disorders associated with aging, and cognitive stimulation.
  • Novel investigations indicate that fulvic acid is an anti-aggregation factor of tau protein in vitro, which projects fulvic acid as a potential anti-Alzheimer’s disease molecule.
  • Preclinical investigations about Shilajit indicate its great potential uses in certain diseases, and various properties have been ascribed, including:
    • Antiulcerogenic properties
    • Antioxidant properties
    • Cognitive and memory enhancer
    • Antidiabetic properties
    • Anxiolytic
    • Antiallergic properties and immunomodulator
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Analgesic properties
    • Antifungal properties
    • Ability to interact positively with other drugs
    • Protective properties in high altitudes
    • Neuroprotective agent against cognitive disorders

 

Shilajit for Sexual Health

Shilajit for Sexual Health

Treats Erectile Dysfunction

Clinical studies have confirmed Shilajit’s effectiveness in treatment of erectile dysfunction through following mechanisms:

Reduces Oxidative stress by increasing Superoxide Dismutase: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to attain and/or maintain penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Oxidative stress has been demonstrated to be involved in the pathophysiology of age or diabetes related erectile dysfunction. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), an antioxidant enzyme catalyzing the conversion of superoxide anion to hydrogen peroxide and molecular oxygen, has been a promising therapeutic target for erectile dysfunction. Erectile function, especially the health of the tissues responsible for erection, relies on superoxide dismutase3, 4, 5. Clinical studies have found, Shilajit supplementation reduces oxidative stress by increasing superoxide dismutase throughout the entire body1. Since oxidative stress is one of the key factors in erectile dysfunction, most researchers believe, this is why Shilajit has been used for treatment of erectile dysfunction for so many centuries.

Increases HDL Cholesterol and Decreases LDL Cholesterol: HDL-Cholesterol protects the heart and cardiovascular system. It removes bad cholesterol away from the lining of the arterteries into the liver where is can be re-used or ferried out of the body. On the other hand, Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is one of the body’s lipoproteins and an important carrier of cholesterol. It’s bad because it becomes part of plaque, the stuff that can clog arteries and make heart attacks and strokes more likely. Too much LDL-C in the bloodstream creates arterial plaque that damages and blocks blood flow. These blockages can result in inadequate circulation of blood throughout the system including the penis and genital area. This can cause erection problem, which can eventually lead to erectile dysfunction. High LDL cholesterol can make the body more difficult to produce the necessary chemicals to create an erection. Also, high cholesterol affects the body’s ability to properly release nitric oxide into the bloodstream. This prevents the proper relaxation of penile tissues to cause erectile engorgement. HDL Cholesterol, which is considered good for cardio-vascular health, helps our body remove excess LDL particles. Recent research has found, Shilajit consumption led to an increases in HDL Cholesterol level, while simultaneously decreasing the LDL-C in our body1, thus effectively addressing to the issues of erectile dysfunction.

Lowers Triglyceride levels: High triglyceride levels are associated with erectile dysfunction. Men with high cholesterol often have high triglyceride levels, as do men with what is known as metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a collection of risk factors that predict heart disease, and it is also associated with erectile dysfunction. High triglycerides are considered part of metabolic syndrome, which is largely attributed to poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and being overweight – three factors that also increase risk for erectile dysfunction. The bottom line is, lifestyle practices that negatively affect the heart tend to negatively affect erectile health also. Clinical studies have found, Shilajit supplementation decreases Triglycerides level1.

Lowers vLDL Cholesterol Level: vLDL cholesterol is a type of blood fat. It’s considered one of the “bad” forms of cholesterol, along with LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. This is because high levels of such cholesterols can clog arteries and compromise cardiovascular health. Sixty percent of a vLDL particle is a triglyceride. As we have already discussed about negative effects of high triglyceride levels on erectile health, clinical studies have found notable decrease in vLDL concentration after Shilajit consumption1.

Improves Testosterone Level: Testosterone isn’t the only fuel for a man’s sex drive and performance. But low testosterone can reduce your ability to have satisfying sex. Lack of sex drive and erectile dysfunction are sexual problems that can result from low testosterone. Men might experience less interest in sex as the level declines, or not be able to sexually perform as well as they would like. A dip in sexual interest can cause depression and could damage important intimate relationships. Recent research has found Shilajit very effective in improving Testosterone level. In one of clinical studies, Shilajit consumption led to an increase in Testosterone level by 23.5% in infertile men2.

Improves Overall Sperm Quality and Sperm Count

Clinical investigations have confirmed Shilajit’s effectiveness in improving sperm count and overall sperm quality through following mechanisms:

Increases Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FHS): Follicle stimulating hormone (FHS) is one of the gonadotrophic hormones, which is released by the pituitary gland into the bloodstream. Follicle stimulating hormone is essential to pubertal development and the function of women’s ovaries and men’s testes. In women, this hormone stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in the ovary before the release of an egg from one follicle at ovulation7. It also increases oestradiol production. In men, follicle stimulating hormone acts on the Sertoli cells of the testes to stimulate sperm production (spermatogenesis). Sertoli cells nurture spermatogenic cells and support them physically. FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) is the master endocrine regulator of spermatogenesis yield before puberty that dictates the Sertoli cell proliferation rate. FSH enhances the production of androgen-binding protein by the Sertoli cells of the testes by binding to FSH receptors on their basolateral membranes, and is critical for the initiation of spermatogenesis6, 8, 9. Various clinical studies have found, Shilajit consumption led to an increase in follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)2.

Reduces Oxidative Stress by Decreasing Lipid Peroxidation: Oxidative stress is an important factor which influences fertility potential of spermatozoa by lipid peroxidation which may result in sperm dysfunction. Sperm count and sperm motility are fundamental parameters that ascertain the functional ability of spermatozoa. Oxidative stress (OS) as a result of an inappropriate balance between oxidants and antioxidants in the semen can lead to sperm damage, impairs the structure and function of spermatozoa. Several studies have shown that lipid peroxidation impacts the sperm concentration, motility, morphology and is associated with poor sperm quality, eventually leading to male infertility21. Shilajit has been found to be very effective in addressing oxidative stress. Clinical studies have confirmed a decrease in lipid peroxidation (assessed by MDA) in serum and semen following oral ingestion of Shilajit2. This way Shilajit plays a vital role in improving sperm quality and overall fertility potential of men.

 

Recommended Dosage of Shilajit

The most effective dose of Shilajit is 200mg per day, with 50% Fulvic acid content, in two divided doses with meals.

Precautions

Studies indicate that Shilajit consumption without preliminary purification may lead to risks of intoxication as it contains mycotoxin, heavy metal ions, polymeric quinones (oxidant agents), and free radicals, among others. Therefore, a purified, ready-for-use preparation for human consumption must be used.

Recent studies indicate that several ayurvedic products including Shilajit and other Indian manufactured products, promoted and sold on Internet, may contain detectable heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic18.

This study also found that presence of heavy metals and other minerals, including gems, is associated with the belief that when mixed with Shilajit or other herbal preparations, they generate a better response from the body in a synergistic manner. This is what is known as rasa-shastra in ayurvedic medicine. Ayurvedic Rasashastra experts claim that if this is prepared, administered, and consumed properly, it is safe and has therapeutic advantages18. However, it is worth noting that recent clinical reports indicate cases of lead poisoning in patients who have used ayurvedic products for the treatment of general weakness19, 20.

The majority of supplements sold as Shilajit (powder, encapsulated, tablets or loose and tinctures) are most likely something else or ‘improved’ with additives such as gums and other stabilizers, taking into account the scarcity of the natural material and its natural properties (exceptionally sticky, sensitive to temperature swings and highly hydrophobic). It is recommended to ask for a Certificate of Analysis or only buy from reputable sellers.

 

Conclusion

Shilajit is a potent and very safe dietary supplement, potentially able to prevent several diseases, but its main medical application now appears to come from its actions in benefit of cognition and potentially as a dietary supplement to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. In essence, this is a nutraceutical product.

On the sexual wellness side, Shilajit helps to increase spermatogenesis, testosterone levels, sperm count and motility in men and ovogenesis in women. Shilajit contains powerful antioxidants which induces proper blood flow to the male genitals. It also relieves anxiety and stress leading to better sexual arousal and enhances one’s potency.

 

Reference:

  1. Shilajit: evalution of its effects on blood chemistry of normal human subjects.
  2. Clinical evaluation of spermatogenic activity of processed Shilajit in oligospermia.
  3. Superoxide dismutase – a target for gene therapeutic approach to reduce oxidative stress in erectile dysfunction.
  4. Dietary antioxidants improve arteriogenic erectile dysfunction.
  5. Erectile dysfunction drugs and oxidative stress in the liver of male rats
  6. Endocrine control of spermatogenesis: Role of FSH and LH/ testosterone
  7. The Ovarian Life Cycle by Jerome F. Strauss III, Carmen J. Williams
  8. The Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Signaling Network in Sertoli Cells
  9. Male Reproductive System by Wanda M. HaschekColin G. RousseauxMatthew A. Wallig
  10. Shilajit: a review.by Agarwal SP1, Khanna R, Karmarkar R, Anwer MK, Khar RK.
  11. Shilajit I: chemical constituents. by Ghosal S, Reddy JP, Lal VK.
  12. Effect of fulvic and humic acids on performance, immune response and thyroid function
  13. Complement-fixing Activity of Fulvic Acid from Shilajit and Other Natural Sources
  14. The core structure of Shilajit humus by Shibnath Ghosal, Jawahar Lal, Sushil K.Singh
  15. N. Chopra R, C. Chopra I, L. Handa K, D. Kapoor K. In Indigenous Drugs of India. Calcutta, India: U.N. Dhar & Sons; 1958.
  16. Khanna R, Witt M, Khalid Anwer M, Agarwal SP, Koch BP. Spectroscopic characterization of fulvic acids extracted from the rock exudate Shilajit. Organic Geochemistry. 2008;39(12):1719–1724.
  17. Kong YC, But PPH, Ng KH, et al. Chemical studies on a Nepalese Panacea—Shilajit (I) International Journal of Crude Drug Research. 1987;25(3):179–182.
  18. Lead, mercury, and arsenic in US- and Indian-manufactured Ayurvedic medicines sold via the Internet.
  19. Ayurvedic lead poisoning: an under-recognized, international problem.
  20. Lead-induced peripheral neuropathy following Ayurvedic medication.
  21. Correlation of Sperm Parameters With Semen Lipid Peroxidation and Total Antioxidants Levels in Astheno- and Oligoasheno- Teratospermic Men

Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not use this information to diagnose or treatment of men’s and women’s sexual health and general health conditions without consulting the doctor. While we review and promote nutrients, herbs, Ayurvedic medicines, and alternative therapies for men’s and women’s sexual health and general health conditions, you must consult an authorized physician before taking any of the products.

 

Posted by Asmidev