Shilajit, an Ayurvedic adaptogenic herb that comes from the rocks of the Himalayas, is a dark red, gummy mixture consisting of vegetable matter and vegetable fiber. This herbal remedy, used for centuries to enhance the utilization of other herbs and nutrients, is associated with numerous healing properties. Traditionally, shilajit has been used to treat asthma, diabetes, kidney function, skin disorders, mental and physical stress, menstrual disorders and anemia. Certain healing properties of shilajit have been scientifically proven.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness, due to atmospheric pressure and temperature fluctuations, can cause cerebral or pulmonary edema, insomnia, pain, dementia, lethargy and depression. The Herbal Medicine Division, Defense Research and Development Organization in India, conducted a study published in 2010, which tested shilajit's ability to reduce altitude sickness. The research found that shilajit helps to reduce lethargy and chronic fatigue, stimulates the immune system and reduces altitudinal stress. Shilajit rejuvenates health, increases strength, endurance, memory, and reduces altitude-related illness.
Infertility
Shilajit may increase fertility in men and women. The College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University in South Korea, tested the effects shilajit had on the production of eggs and sperm in rats. The research, published in 1990, found that shilajit increased the number of sperm and eggs produced in the animals over a six-week period. An additional study on humans, conducted by J. B. Roy State Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital in India, and published in 2010, tested the ability of shilajit to increase sperm count in 60 infertile males. The researched found a significant improvement in sperm count and sperm motility in 28 of the men tested.
Inflammation
Shilajit has been used to treat inflammation, including peptic ulcers and arthritis pain, for centuries. The Department of Pharmacology, Banaras Hindu University in India conducted a study that substantiates using shilajit for inflammation. Published in 1990, the research found shilajit increased the mucus barrier and carbohydrate-to-protein ratio in the stomach, reducing gastric ulcers. Shilajit also showed a significant ability to reduce arthritis-induced inflammation in rats. The high antioxidant content of shilajit may help to reduce swelling and joint pain.
References
- PubMed.gov: Shilajit: A Panacea for High-Altitude Problems
- PubMed.gov: Clinical Evaluation of Spermatogenic Activity of Processed Shilajit in Oligospermia
- PubMed.gov: Antiulcerogenic and Anti-Inflammatory Studies with Shilajit
- PubMed.gov: The Spermatogenic and Ovogenic Effects of Chronically Administered Shilajit to Rats
- HolisticOnline.com: Herb Information: Shilajit
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