WHAT IS SHILAJIT?
Known as ‘the conqueror of weakness,’ Shilajit is a mineral-rich tar that naturally occurs in high mountainous ranges, like the Altai in Siberia. The black resin is usually found hiding between layers of mountainous rock and is easily identified by its sticky tar-like appearance and potent earthy smell.
Medicinal use of Shilajit dates back thousands of years. A staple in ancient Siberian shamanism and Indian Ayurvedic medicine, it has long been used to treat a whole host of ailments from chronic fatigue to impotence.
Today, pure and natural Shilajit is available to buy in resin, powder or capsule form from the Mountainlife website.
Shilajit is supercharged with over 85 vital minerals and trace elements. Some of these include vitamin A, B vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12), copper gluconate, potassium phosphate, iron, manganese gluconate, chrome picolinate, selenium and zinc.
Most important of all, Shilajit is a rich source of Fulvic and Humic acid.
Fulvic acid - A powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant with multiple health benefits such as increasing muscle strength, improving gut health and boosting cellular function. Shilajit has one of the highest levels of fulvic acid of all food sources.
Humic acid - A chemical produced by decaying plants. Known to stimulate the immune system and treat viral infections.
THE HISTORY OF SHILAJIT
Shilajit is an age-old healing remedy that has been around for thousands of years. It’s use stems from Ayurvedic medicine. Referred to as a ‘rasayana,’ it was used as a rejuvenator and anti-ageing compound.
Shilajit also has historic roots in Siberia, where it was used in creams and lacquers to help heal wounds and repair stretch marks and skin tears.
In traditional medicine, Shilajit is known as an adaptogen, which means it helps the body to cope with physical and mental stress.
SHILAJIT BENEFITS
Supports brain health
Shilajit is used as an anti-ageing tonic in traditional medicine. Modern day studies have also shown Shilajit has the potential to prevent, slow and control the progression of cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s. It is thought the antioxidant properties of Fulvic Acid (found in Shilajit) support good cognitive health and prevent a build-up of tau protein, known to damage brain cells.
Increases testosterone levels
In one clinical study of males between the ages of 45 and 55, half were given 250g of Shilajit twice a day and half were given a placebo. Those taking Shilajit were found to have significantly higher levels of testosterone.
Naturally increases energy levels
Research shows that taking Shilajit helps to boost energy levels and may benefit those suffering with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Scientists observed that it influences several processes linked with the body’s production of energy and reduces symptoms of fatigue, anxiety and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Boosts immune system
As an adaptogen, Shilajit helps defend the body against daily stressors that negatively impact the immune system. Additionally, studies have found the humic acid and fulvic acid in Shilajit promote a healthier immune system. Other research has found that Shilajit is capable of fighting off and destroying certain viruses in isolated environments.
Improves fertility
Modern day research shows that Shilajit may improve male fertility by boosting sperm count and motility (the ability to move.) This backs up findings of traditional and Ayurvedic medicine, where Shilajit has been used as a fertility treatment for centuries.
Supports muscles & increases strength
Fulvic acid in Shilajit improves the absorption of nutrients in the body, helping to feed muscle cells and allow for improved growth, strength, recovery and repair. This is backed up by scientific research which shows Shilajit can help maintain muscle strength for longer, following fatiguing exercise.