Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like substance that is found primarily in the Himalayan Mountains. It is believed to have a variety of health benefits and is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine as a natural supplement.

Here are 8 health benefits of Shilajit: -

Low testosterone level

Testosterone is a male sex hormone produced primarily in the testicles. It is responsible for male physical characteristics, such as muscle mass and bone density, and plays a role in sperm production and sexual function. A natural decline of Testosterone levels with age is to be expected, and can also be influenced by medical conditions such as:

a low sex drive

hair loss

loss of muscle mass

fatigue

increased body fat

A clinical study was conducted on male volunteers aged 45-55, in which half received a 250mg dose of purified Shilajit twice daily and the other half received a placebo. After 90 days, the group taking purified Shilajit showed a significant increase in testosterone levels compared to the placebo group.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a long-term condition characterized by severe fatigue, making it difficult to carry out daily activities and attend school or work. Some studies suggest that Shilajit supplements may help reduce CFS symptoms and increase energy. CFS is believed to be linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, a condition in which the cells fail to produce enough energy. A 2012 study on rats showed that Shilajit helped alleviate the symptoms of CFS induced by forced swimming, potentially due to its ability to prevent mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, supplementing with Shilajit to enhance mitochondrial function may improve energy levels.

Anemia

Anemia is a condition that occurs due to insufficient iron in the diet, loss of blood, or difficulty in absorbing iron. The common symptoms of iron deficiency anemia are:

Tiredness

Weakness 

Cold hands and feet

Headache

Irregular heartbeat.

Studies conducted with Shilajit supplements may have found a potential treatment. A study involving 18 rats divided into three groups found that rats in the third group, who were subjected to induced anemia and received 500mg of shilajit, had higher levels of haemoglobin, haematocrit, and red blood cells compared to the anemic rats in the second group. This observation was made when the rats received Shilajit, 11 days after being subjected to induced anemia.

Aging

Fulvic acid, a strong antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory agent, is found in high concentration in Shilajit. It is posited that regular use of Shilajit can help to increase longevity and contribute to general good health. This is due to its action against cellular damage and free radicals.

Cardiovascular Health

Shilajit as a dietary supplement may also have a positive impact on cardiovascular health. A study on lab rats tested the effects of shilajit on cardiac function. The rats received a pre-treatment of shilajit and some were later given isoproterenol to cause heart injury. The results showed that rats treated with shilajit before the cardiac injury had fewer cardiac lesions.

Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disorder that leads to memory loss, behavioural changes, and cognitive decline. Although drugs are available to manage Alzheimer's symptoms, some researchers believe that shilajit may help prevent or slow down the progression of the disease based on its molecular composition.

Infertility in Men

In a study of 60 infertile men, taking shilajit twice a day for 90 days post meals resulted in over 60% of the participants showing an increase in total sperm count and over 12% having an increase in sperm motility, which is crucial for fertility.

Altitude Sickness

Higher altitudes can cause symptoms such as pulmonary edema insomnia fatigue hypoxia Altitude sickness is due to low air pressure, cold, or strong winds. Shilajit, with its fulvic acid and 84+ minerals, is believed to help overcome altitude problems. It acts as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, energy booster, and diuretic and is thought to alleviate symptoms of high altitude.