Ginseng Vs Shilajit

Nutritive tonics are central to Asian herbalism and serve as essential components for daily consumption.

They encompass many benefits and are crucial in promoting and sustaining overall well-being. Among the notable examples, Ginseng and Shilajit are renowned in Chinese and Indian medicine for their comparable functions.

Therefore, when talking about Ginseng and Shilajit, you're likely to ask- which is better?

Whether it's Ginseng or Shilajit caps, both the Ayurvedic medicine has been used for time unknown, and their benefits are undeniable.

So, if you want to boost your mind and body with the goodness of these herbs, this post will take you through a detailed comparison between Shilajit and Ginseng regarding effectiveness and overall health benefits.

Comparision Between Ginseng & Shilajit 

Parameter

Ginseng

Shilajit

Origin

Mainly found in East Asia, particularly China and Korea

Found in the Himalayan region, primarily in India and Nepal

Plant Description

Herbaceous plant with fleshy roots

A mineral-rich substance formed from the decomposition of plant matter

Traditional Use

Adaptogen, immune booster, energy enhancer

Adaptogen, rejuvenator, aphrodisiac

Key Components

Ginsenosides

Fulvic acid, humic acid, minerals, trace elements

Health Benefits

Increases energy, boosts cognitive function, supports the immune system

Enhances vitality, improves stamina, promotes anti-aging effects

Traditional Medicine Systems

Prominent in Chinese medicine

Prominent in Ayurvedic medicine

Research Studies

Extensively studied for its various health benefits

Limited scientific studies, but increasing interest due to its potential

Formulations

Available in various forms: capsules, extracts, teas, etc.

Typically found in resin or powder form, sometimes in capsules or tablets.

Precautions

It can interact with certain medications and cause sleep disturbances in some individuals.

It may contain heavy metals and should be sourced from reliable suppliers.

A Brief Overview of Shilajit 

Shilajit is among the most valuable and beneficial ayurvedic Herbo-mineral sticky substances from the Himalayan mountains. Shilajit contains certain fossilized forms of valuable medicinal plants that include minerals and fulvic acid (an organic compound).

This acid is known to form the major Shilajit component, making it so effective as a safe supplement that caters to numerous health advantages. 

mountain

Source: Image by Schwoaze on Pixabay

Among its health benefits, the common ones include improving testosterone levels, spermatogenesis in men, and oogenesis in women. Besides this, Shilajit also has stress-relieving properties that contribute to its aphrodisiac effects. 

There are four varieties of Shilajit herb, red, yellow, black, and blue. Black Shilajit is said to be the most beneficial one. The daily recommended Shilajit dosage is about 300 mg to 500 mg with water. Consumers must begin with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it to observe its benefits if they do not experience any side effects. 

5 Health Benefits of Shilajit Herb

Let's learn how Shilajit supplements can benefit your health:

1. Helps to reduce Alzheimer's disease

Few studies reveal that Shilajit can slow down or reduce the progression of Alzheimer's disease. This superfood contains fulvic acid, a primary compound with antioxidant properties. This compound contributes to better cognitive health by reducing the accumulation of Tau protein. This protein forms a major and essential part of the nervous system, and its excess build-up leads to brain damage. 

2. Boosts Testosterone levels in men

Shilajit benefits for male is not only limited to sexual wellness. It has the potential to elevate testosterone levels as well. Testosterone is a vital hormone crucial in muscle growth, bone density maintenance, and sexual function. Furthermore, supplementation with Shilajit has increased testosterone levels even in men experiencing infertility.

body building man

Source: Image by lukaszdylka on Pixabay

3.  Reduced inflammation

Shilajit possesses anti-inflammatory properties, enabling it to combat inflammation throughout the body effectively. Inflammation is a key factor in developing various chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. By reducing inflammation, Shilajit may contribute to preventing and managing these ailments.

4. Ageing

Fulvic acid, a prominent compound found in Shilajit, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it effective in combating free radicals and mitigating cellular damage, crucial factors in the ageing process. Regular intake of Shilajit may contribute to overall vitality and slow the ageing process for specific individuals.

You should also check: List of Food for Sex drive in Women & Men

 5. Enhanced athletic performance

Research has demonstrated that Shilajit can enhance athletic performance through multiple mechanisms, including increased oxygen uptake and improved endurance. Furthermore, supplementation with Shilajit has been found to enhance physical performance in healthy individuals who participated in studies evaluating its effects.

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In what form should you use Shilajit?

The preferred form of Shilajit relies on the consumer's convenience and personal taste. Here are a few typical varieties of Shilajit:

  • Resin: Shilajit resin is the most traditional and widely accessible resin type. Before eating, it is dissolved in warm water or milk and has a sticky, tar-like consistency. 

  • Capsules or tablets: Shilajit is offered in capsule or tablet form, offering a practical and consistent dose. Tablets or capsules provide a regulated amount of Shilajit per serving and are simple to ingest.

  • Powder: Shilajit resin is crushed or ground into a fine powder to produce Shilajit powder. It may be included in drinks, smoothies, or meals.

A Brief Overview of Ginseng

Ginseng roots

Source: Image by markroad1230 on Pixabay

Ginseng, a root extensively utilized in traditional Chinese medicine, comes in three main types: Asian Ginseng, Siberian Ginseng, and American Ginseng. Throughout centuries, Chinese culture has employed Ginseng to address issues related to sexual function by acting on both the reproductive and nervous systems, thereby enhancing libido. 

It improves erectile function by influencing the blood vessels in the penis, and its stimulating effects on the body contribute to heightened energy levels. This is achieved by elevating neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which reduces stress and enhances mood.

Ginseng is available in various forms, including extracts, pastes, powders, and capsules. If using a concentrated extract, a dosage of 100-200 mg is typically sufficient, while the recommended dose for powdered Ginseng ranges from 5 to 10 grams. It is important to note that observing noticeable results from Ginseng supplementation may take several days of consistent use.

Individuals with heart or kidney issues, high blood pressure, or those taking anti-coagulant drugs or aspirin should consult their doctor before incorporating Ginseng into their regimen.

4 Notable Health Benefits of Ginseng 

Here's how Ginseng can prove to be beneficial for your mind and body:

1. Build immunity

Ginseng has the potential to enhance the immune system. It has been found that Ginseng may potentially reduce the frequency and severity of colds in adults.

2. Regulate blood sugar

Ginseng's bioactive compounds, called ginsenosides, play a significant role in exerting anti-diabetic effects in individuals with prediabetes and those with type 2 diabetes. Ginseng can enhance glucose uptake, regulate insulin production, and ultimately produce beneficial anti-diabetic effects.

3. Improve focus

Ginseng may have a modest and temporary enhancing effect on concentration and learning. Ginseng has been combined with extracts from ginkgo tree leaves, another traditional remedy believed to assist with dementia-related symptoms.

4. Increases libido

Asian Ginseng, specifically recognized for its ability to enhance libido and alleviate symptoms of erectile dysfunction, is renowned as an aphrodisiac in Korean and Chinese medicinal practices. Scientific studies on animals and humans have confirmed its effectiveness in enhancing sexual behaviour.

Moreover, Ginseng has been shown to increase sperm count and improve sperm quality in men. Additionally, a study conducted on menopausal women revealed that Asian Ginseng improved sexual arousal.

In What form Should you Use Ginseng?

Tablets and Capsules kept on a container

Source: Image by  Anna Shvets on Pixabay

Ginseng can be consumed in different forms and is mostly available in a tablet or capsule form that allows precise and easy dosage. The common ways to consume Ginseng include:

  • Tablets or capsules: Ginseng capsule or tablet is widely available, easy to consume, and standardised dosage. 

  • Extracts: The concentrated forms of the herb are known as ginseng extract, commonly available in tincture or liquid form. They are a convenient and potent way to consume this herb and can also be added to one's beverage.

  • Powders: The dried root of Ginseng is often available in a powder form. For the best effect, one can add it to their smoothies, food preparations, or teas.

Ginseng Vs Shilajit: Which One Should you Choose?

Your unique requirements and tastes will determine whether you should choose Ginseng or Shilajit. Here are some things to consider to guide your decision:

Ginseng:

  • Advantages: Ginseng is well recognised for its adaptogenic qualities, which increase energy levels, improve cognitive function, and strengthen the immune system.

  • Traditional usage: It has been extensively studied for its range of health advantages and has a long history of usage in Chinese medicine.

  • Forms: Ginseng may be purchased in several forms, including capsules, extracts, teas, and more.

  • Caution: Ginseng may interfere with some drugs and, in some people, cause sleep disorders.

Shilajit:

  • Advantages: Shilajit is prized for its revitalising qualities, which boost energy, increase stamina, and encourage anti-ageing benefits.

  • Traditional use: Despite growing scientific research on its health advantages, it is widely used in Ayurvedic treatment.

  • Forms: Shilajit is usually found as powder or resin, with capsules or tablets used sporadically.

  • Precautions: To prevent potential heavy metal contamination, ensuring that Shilajit is purchased from reputable vendors is crucial.

The decision between Ginseng and Shilajit ultimately comes down to your health objectives, the advantages you're looking for, and any necessary safety measures or potential interactions. Consulting with a doctor or herbalist who can offer personalised advice is recommended depending on your situation.

Final Takeaway

In conclusion, Ginseng and Shilajit are two herbal treatments with unique properties and advantages.

Ginseng, well-known for its adaptogenic qualities, is valued in chinese medicine for its capacity to promote immunity, cognition, and vitality. It has a long tradition of use, and several studies have been done on its many health advantages. It might, however, interfere with some drugs and cause sleep disorders in some people.

Shilajit is prized in Ayurvedic medicine for its rejuvenating qualities, boosting vitality, strengthening stamina, and fostering anti-aging benefits. Despite the lack of scientific study on Shilajit, its possible health advantages have sparked attention. It should be purchased from trustworthy providers to prevent contamination with heavy metals and is commonly obtained in resin or powder form.

Consider your requirements, tastes, warnings, or drug interactions when deciding between Ginseng and Shilajit. A healthcare expert or herbalist can provide individualised advice based on your unique situation.


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Zandu Ayurvedic Team

Zandu Ayurvedic Team has a panel of over 10 BAMS (Ayurvedacharya), boasting a collective experience of over 50 years. With a deep-rooted understanding of Ayurveda, they are committed to sharing their expertise & knowledge through our blogs.
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