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Shilajit Fulvic Acid

Also known as: Shilajit, Mumijo, Mineral Pitch, Asphaltum, Shilajit Fulvic Acid

Overview

Shilajit is a tar-like substance exuded from rocks in mountainous regions, notably the Himalayas. It's primarily composed of humic substances, with fulvic acid being a key bioactive component. Traditionally used in Ayurveda for vitality, anti-aging, and cognitive support, modern research explores its antioxidant, neuroprotective, and adaptogenic properties. Shilajit is rich in fulvic acid, minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium, and various trace elements. Research is still in early to moderate stages, with an increasing number of preclinical and clinical studies, but more large-scale, high-quality human trials are needed to confirm its benefits. The available evidence is mixed, with some promising preclinical and small clinical studies, but systematic reviews highlight the need for more robust evidence.

Benefits

Shilajit shows potential antioxidant and neuroprotective effects based on animal and in vitro studies, but human data are limited and not consistently quantified. One human RCT (n=30) reported a 6.8% reduction in blood glucose vs. baseline after 90 days of 200 mg/day supplementation. However, another RCT (n=30) found no significant effect on blood glucose with 2 g/day over 45 days. One RCT (n=30) noted a reduction in triglycerides with 2 g/day, but the effect size was not clearly reported. In vitro studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects by reducing mast cell degranulation, and animal studies indicate possible improvements in learning and memory, though human data are lacking. Most studies have been conducted on healthy adults, and the clinical significance of observed effect sizes remains uncertain due to limited data.

How it works

Shilajit's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. As an antioxidant, it scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress. Its neuroprotective effects may stem from protecting neurons from oxidative damage and supporting mitochondrial function. The anti-inflammatory action involves inhibiting mast cell degranulation and modulating the immune response. Fulvic acid, a key component, interacts with cellular membranes, mitochondria, and immune cells. It is well absorbed orally, and its bioavailability in humans appears sufficient for biological activity, though precise quantification is lacking. Shilajit affects the metabolic, nervous, and immune systems.

Side effects

Shilajit is generally considered safe at recommended doses, with limited reports of adverse effects in clinical studies. Common side effects have not been reported in available clinical trials. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported in some individuals. Allergic reactions are possible but rare. There are no well-documented drug interactions, but there is a theoretical risk with blood glucose-lowering medications due to potential hypoglycemic effects. Caution is advised in pregnancy and lactation due to a lack of data. Limited data are available for children, the elderly, or those with chronic diseases, so use with caution in these populations.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Shilajit is not clearly established, but human studies have used dosages ranging from 200 mg to 2 g/day, depending on the fulvic acid content and desired effect. A typical dosage range is 200 mg to 2 g/day. The maximum safe dose is not established, but 2 g/day appears safe in short-term studies. It is typically taken once daily with meals. Purified Shilajit with standardized fulvic acid content is preferred. Fulvic acid is well absorbed, and no specific cofactors are required for absorption. There are no identified required cofactors.

FAQs

How do I ensure the purity of Shilajit?

Ensure the product is tested for heavy metals and contaminants by a third-party laboratory. Look for certificates of analysis (COA) to verify purity and safety.

What should I look for in a Shilajit supplement?

Look for products with standardized fulvic acid content, as this is a key bioactive component. Standardization ensures consistent potency and effectiveness.

When is it not safe to take Shilajit?

Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation due to a lack of safety data. Exercise caution if you are taking blood glucose-lowering medications, as Shilajit may have hypoglycemic effects.

How should I take Shilajit for best results?

Take Shilajit with meals to minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Consistency is key, so take it at the same time each day for optimal results.

What are realistic expectations for Shilajit's benefits?

Expect modest improvements in metabolic markers. Cognitive and anti-inflammatory benefits are not well-established in humans. It is not a cure-all; benefits are not universally supported by high-quality evidence.

Research Sources

https://www.jptcp.com/index.php/jptcp/article/view/6677/6419 – This systematic review assesses the clinical efficacy and safety of Shilajit, finding potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic benefits. However, the review emphasizes that the evidence is limited and of variable quality, highlighting the need for more rigorous studies. The review also notes a favorable safety profile but calls for more robust randomized controlled trials to confirm benefits.
https://examine.com/supplements/shilajit/research/ – Examine.com provides a summary of research on Shilajit, including two randomized controlled trials. One trial (n=30) showed a 6.8% reduction in blood glucose with 200 mg/day of Shilajit (54.8% fulvic acid) over 90 days. Another trial (n=30) found that 2 g/day of Shilajit (6.61% fulvic acid) reduced triglycerides but not blood glucose over 45 days.
https://www.integrmed.org/journal/view.php?number=50 – This article discusses the traditional uses of Shilajit and its potential health benefits. It highlights Shilajit's role as an adaptogen and its rich composition of fulvic acid, minerals, and trace elements. The article also emphasizes the need for further research to validate its efficacy and safety.
https://www.news-medical.net/health/Shilajit-Health-Benefits-Risks-and-Clinical-Evidence.aspx – This news article reviews the health benefits, risks, and clinical evidence associated with Shilajit. It mentions the antioxidant and neuroprotective effects observed in animal studies and the potential for metabolic improvements in humans. The article also cautions about the limited data and the need for more rigorous clinical trials.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10408347.2023.2293963 – This abstract discusses the potential benefits of Shilajit, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It highlights the need for more research to fully understand its mechanisms of action and to confirm its efficacy in human populations. The abstract also mentions the importance of standardization and quality control in Shilajit products.