How to Consume Shilajit

Key Insights:

  1. Rich in fulvic and humic acids, Shilajit has been used for centuries to promote health and longevity.
  2. Available in resin, powder, capsules, and liquid forms, with typical dosages between 100-500mg daily, adjusted based on individual needs.
  3. This can be dissolved in warm water or milk, taken sublingually, or mixed with honey or herbal tea.
  4. It is not suitable for children, pregnant or nursing women, or individuals with certain health conditions, such as blood disorders or heart disease.
  5. Improves energy, mood, cognition, digestion, immunity, and libido.
  6. Safe for short-term daily use with cycling breaks every 6-8 weeks. Consult a doctor for long-term use.
  7. Beneficial for energy and reproductive health when taken in the right dosage.
  8. Increased energy, improved mood, better digestion, and overall well-being.
    Shilajit is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy used for centuries to promote health and longevity. This dark brown tar-like substance comprises rich humic and fulvic acids and over 80 other minerals and compounds. Consuming shilajit properly is key to experiencing its many benefits. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about taking shilajit, from its origins and composition to dosage, timing, combinations with other herbs, precautions, and more.

    Did you know:

    1. Shilajit has been valued in Ayurveda for centuries for boosting health and longevity.
    2. It comes in various forms like resin, powder, and capsules for flexible use.
    3. Known for enhancing energy, mood, and overall wellness, Shilajit offers multiple benefits.
    4. Not recommended for children, pregnant women, or those with specific health conditions—consultation is crucial

    How to use Shilajit

    Shilajit

     

    Shilajit comes in various forms, including oil, tablets, capsules, liquid, powder, and resin. Since it is a herbal supplement and is not strictly regulated, no recommended dosages are based on scientific research. 

    Age, health, and tolerance are some of the factors that may affect the recommended dosage of Shilajit. Typically, 100–500 mg of Shilajit are used each day. However, starting with a lower dosage and increasing it gradually is important based on how the body responds.

    You must consult an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine the right dosage for your particular situation. Depending on your present health and any underlying medical issues, they might provide a customised recommendation to ensure that Shilajit is used safely and successfully.

    Best Ways to Take Shilajit Resin, Powder, and Capsules or Tablets

    Ways to Consume Shilajit Resin:

    1. Take With Water:

    • Take a small piece of Shilajit resin from the jar, using the stick or spoon inside
    • Mix the resin into warm or hot water
    • Stir for 1-2 minutes until dissolved
    • Add honey to sweeten (optional)
    • Drink daily

    2. Take With Milk:

    • Take a small piece of Shilajit resin from the jar, using the stick or spoon inside
    • Mix the resin into warm or hot milk
    • Stir for 1-2 minutes until dissolved
    • Add honey to sweeten (optional)
    • Drink daily

    3. Take With Tea or Coffee:

    • Take a small piece of Shilajit resin from the jar, using the stick or spoon inside
    • Mix the resin into your hot tea or coffee
    • Stir for 1-2 minutes until dissolved
    • Drink daily

    Dissolving a small amount of Shilajit resin into warm/hot liquids helps maximize absorption. Adding a natural sweetener like honey can improve the taste. Drink daily for best effects.

    Right Way of Consuming Shilajit Powder:

    If you prefer powder over resin, Shilajit powder provides the same benefits in a more convenient form:

    • Dosage: Take 300mg to 500mg per day
    • Mixing: Stir powder into warm water, milk, tea, or smoothies
    • Timing: Best taken in the morning for energy/focus or in the evening for recovery/sleep

    Correct ways of Consuming Shilajit Capsules

    Shilajit capsules make taking Shilajit easy since there's no mixing required:

    • Dosage: Follow dosage instructions from the manufacturer, typically 250mg - 500mg daily
    • Taking Capsules: Swallow capsules with water, with or without food
    • Consistency: Take capsules daily for best results to maintain steady nutrient levels

    Shilajit powders and capsules provide the same excellent health benefits as the resin. Powder mixes into liquids for easy consumption, while capsules are the most convenient dosage form. Taking Shilajit consistently is key to experiencing its full effects.

    Some Interesting Ways to Include Shilajit in Your Diet

    Below are some ways to take Shilajit:

    • Add Shilajit to a warm herbal tea or coffee cup to start your day. 
    • You can use it to boost your energy levels and make your beverage more nutrient-dense.
    • Adding it to your favorite juices or smoothies might be a tasty way to eat it. Energy bars and yogurt make delicious snacks throughout the day.

    When is the Best Time to Have Shilajit?

    • Morning: To keep your energy levels high throughout the day, you can take Shilajit.
    • Evening: Since the evening dose may alter the quality of your sleep, it should be taken at least two hours before bed.

    Is Shilajit Safe?

    Shilajit is often safe when it comes from reliable and authentic sources. There are risks associated with consuming tainted or impure Shilajit, which may contain heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, and mercury. Intoxication and adverse health effects are possible consequences of these poisons.

    It is crucial to ensure that Shilajit products undergo rigorous quality and purity testing. Before using Shilajit, persons taking medicine or having certain health issues should consult a doctor to avoid any interactions or side effects.

    Different Forms of Shilajit (Resin, Powder, Capsules, Liquid)

    Shilajit Powder

    Here are the different forms of Shilajit:

    • Resin: Shilajit resin is the most natural form, typically consumed by dissolving a small pea-sized amount in warm water or milk.
    • Powder: Shilajit powder can be mixed with water, smoothies, or food. It is easier to measure for precise dosage but may not be as potent as resin.
    • Capsules: Capsules are convenient for those who prefer a pre-measured dose. They are great for on-the-go consumption but might take longer to show effects due to the capsule's digestion process.
    • Liquid: Shilajit liquid extract is easy to absorb and can be taken directly or diluted in a beverage.

    In addition to this also do have a look at our related blog where we have mentioned foods to avoid with Shilajit

    Tips for Enhancing Shilajit Consumption & Digestion

    Here are some of the tips which will help you to consume Shilajit:

      1. Start Low, Go Slow

      Shilajit affects everyone differently. If you are new to it, start with a low dose first. Slowly increase your dosage over time as you see how your body responds.

      2. Be Consistent

      To fully experience the benefits, take Shilajit every day. Create a daily routine of ingesting Shilajit resin, powder, or capsules. Consistency is key.

      3. Don't Overheat

      Don't boil Shilajit when mixing it with warm water or milk. Too much heat can break down its key compounds, so use moderately warm liquids to dissolve Shilajit.

      4. Eat a Balanced Diet

      Pair Shilajit with nutritious whole foods, lean protein, and healthy fats. Since Shilajit improves nutrient absorption, a balanced diet maximizes the benefits.

        Scientific Studies on Shilajit

        Shilajit1. Study on Shilajit as a Topical Treatment for Oral Conditions

        A clinical study evaluated the use of Shilajit for treating oral afflictions, particularly on the tongue and cheeks. In this study, 65 mg of Shilajit was mixed in hot water and applied topically. Results showed a significant improvement in the reduction of discomfort and healing time in patients with oral ulcers or irritation when Shilajit was used as a paint-like application.

        2. Effectiveness of Shilajit in Reducing Allergic Cough

        A double-blind clinical trial explored the efficacy of administering 130 mg of Shilajit combined with Zizyphus jujuba Lam. juice, water, or honey twice daily in patients suffering from allergic cough. The study concluded that the group receiving Shilajit showed a notable decrease in cough symptoms and respiratory irritation, suggesting its potential as a natural remedy for allergic respiratory conditions. Adding honey and milk further enhanced the soothing effect on the throat and respiratory tract.

        Who Should not Take Shilajit?

        Shilajit's safety and effectiveness have not been thoroughly investigated in clinical trials. Most healthy adults may not be harmed by taking it for short periods, but if you fit into any of the following groups, avoid taking it:

        • Kids
        • Women who are nursing or pregnant
        • People who suffer from blood abnormalities such as hemochromatosis, sickle cell disease, or thalassemia
        • Blood sugar levels in diabetics on anti-diabetic drugs may drop sharply.
        • Individuals with a history of heart illness or low blood pressure (hypotension), or those with high blood pressure who take blood pressure-lowering drugs, may have dangerously low blood pressure.
        • Avoid taking this medication for at least two weeks before surgery since it may affect blood sugar regulation both before and after the procedure.

          Side Effects of Shilajit

          Shilajit may offer health benefits, but it may also have negative effects. These can include diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea for some persons. Furthermore, consuming impure or polluted Shilajit can result in toxicity from heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury.

          Before using Shilajit, you should be cautious and ensure it is pure and high-quality. If you have any adverse side effects or have any doubts about how to take medication, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

          Conclusion

          When used properly, Shilajit is a potent natural chemical with several health advantages. You may maximise its potential and get short-term and long-term advantages by adhering to the suggested dosage and best practices and mixing it with honey or other Ayurvedic medicines. Always take measures, though, and if you have any worries, speak with a healthcare professional.

          FAQs About Shilajit

          Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about taking Shilajit:

          1. How should beginners start taking Shilajit?

          Start with a low dosage of 250mg once a day for a week. Slowly increase to 250mg twice a day in week 2. Observe effects and increase to 500mg twice daily from week 3 onwards. Take at least one week off every six to eight weeks.

          2. Can I take Shilajit every day?

          Yes, taking Shilajit daily for up to 3-4 months is safe. Monitor effects on energy, mood, digestion, etc. Cycling on and off periods helps maintain efficacy.

          3. What are the signs that Shilajit is working?

          Increased energy, improved mood and cognition, better digestion and immunity, enhanced libido, and generally more healthy and rejuvenated are positive signs that it works well.

          4. Is Shilajit safe for women?

          Yes, when taken in the right dosage, Shilajit is safe for women. It helps provide energy, regulate cycles, and boost fertility and reproductive health. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it.

          5. How to take Shilajit with honey for energy and stamina?

          Mix 250-500mg Shilajit in 1-2 tsp of raw honey. Take this combination first thing in the morning or before any exercise for a noticeable boost in energy and stamina.

          References: 

          1. Improves energy, mood, cognition, digestion, immunity, and libido. (https://www.researchgate.net)
          2. You can use it to boost your energy levels and make your beverage more nutrient-dense. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
          3. Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like material found in the Himalayan rocky mountains. (https://www.researchgate.net)

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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.
          We use all kinds of Ayurvedic references in our content. Please use the contact form for any editorial queries.

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