What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a natural substance found mainly in mountainous regions such as the Himalayas. It is a black/brownish substance thought to be formed over centuries by the gradual decomposition action of microorganisms on plant and rock material.
- It is found in the Himalayans mountains between India and Nepal, although it has been also found in Russia, Tibet, Afghanistan, and now in the north of Chile, where it is named as Andean Shilajit.
- Shilajit is also known in the north of India as salajit, shilajatu, mimie or mummiyo.
Nutrient Composition
As the composition of Shilajit depends primarily on the rock type and organic material growing in the area, its chemical composition is not characterised with any certainty. There are differences in the chemical composition of Shilajit depending on the region it originates from.
Shilajit, by weight, is broadly thought to comprise 80% humic compounds (including fulvic acid, dibenzo-α-pyrones (DBPs) (also known as urolithins), DBP chromoproteins (DCPs), humic acid) and 20% minerals:
- Fulvic Acid and Dibenzo-alpha-pyrones: These are the main active compounds in Shilajit.
- Minerals: Shilajit contains minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and trace elements.
- Humic Acid: This is an active ingredient
- These compounds are known for their antioxidant effects and help maintain mitochondrial function, supporting cellular energy production.
Historical Use
Has been used in Ayurvedic practice for a number of centuries.
- Shilajit has been collected and used by humans for many centuries. It has had various uses in history. It is believed that the substance was used during the mummification process by dynastic Egyptians. Now, the substance is used as an ingredient in food supplements.
- Shilajit has been known and used for centuries in the Ayurvedic culture; it is known as a rasayana compound.
- The benefits of shilajit have been shown to differ from region to region, depending on the place from which it was extracted.
- Traditionally, shilajit is consumed by people from Nepal and the North of India, and children usually take it with milk in their breakfast.
- The Sherpas claim to have shilajit as part of their diet; they constitute a population of strong men that assist on climbs the peak of Everest.
