Shilajit Purified Extract
Also known as: Shilajit, Conqueror of Mountains, Fulvic Acid Complex, PrimaVie
Overview
Shilajit is a blackish-brown, tar-like substance primarily found in the Himalayas, formed from the decomposition of plant and animal matter. It is rich in fulvic acids, dibenzo-α-pyrones, and various trace minerals. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, Shilajit is believed to enhance overall health, particularly for conditions involving inflammation, cognitive decline, and tissue integrity. Its main active component, fulvic acid, exhibits antioxidant properties and has been linked with various health benefits. The body of research surrounding Shilajit is expanding; however, it remains limited with a need for more rigorous clinical trials to validate its efficacy in humans.
Benefits
1. Muscle Strength Retention: A study demonstrated that a daily dose of 500 mg of PrimaVie Shilajit improved muscle strength retention after exertion and reduced collagen degradation markers. (Evidence: Moderate) 2. Antioxidant Effects: Shilajit is believed to enhance the body's antioxidant capacity, potentially benefiting various chronic conditions related to oxidative stress. (Evidence: Moderate) 3. Cognitive Support: Fulvic acid may help prevent tau protein self-aggregation, offering potential benefits for cognitive health. (Evidence: Moderate) The most significant benefits seem to be observed in athletes, although more research is needed to understand its effects across different populations.
How it works
Shilajit compounds, including fulvic acids and dibenzo-α-pyrones, enhance the body's antioxidant capacity, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This may improve tissue integrity by promoting the production of extracellular matrix components like collagen. Fulvic acid's ability to block tau protein aggregation may contribute to cognitive health benefit mechanisms. Due to its low molecular weight, fulvic acid is also well-absorbed in the body, facilitating its bioactivity.
Side effects
Shilajit is generally considered safe for short-term use, but its unpurified forms can expose users to harmful heavy metals. Common side effects, though not well-documented, may include allergic reactions and possible mild increases in blood pressure. Rarely, individuals may experience disorientation or dizziness. Life-threatening allergic reactions are possible but are extremely rare. There are no established contraindications, yet caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to the limited safety data available. Patients with compromised health or those on medication should also use Shilajit with caution.
Dosage
The typical dosage range for Shilajit is between 250 mg to 500 mg per day. Studies have shown benefits at these dosages, particularly noted at the higher dose of 500 mg. Although there is no maximum safe dose firmly established, doses up to 500 mg daily have been well tolerated in studies. Given its well-absorbed nature, timing is less critical, but consistency in use is encouraged. Standardized forms like PrimaVie are recommended for effective dosing. Individual absorption may vary depending on the formulation.
FAQs
What should I consider when using Shilajit?
Ensure you choose a properly purified product to minimize the risk of heavy metal exposure.
Is Shilajit safe for everyone?
While generally safe, caution is advised for individuals with health complications, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
How should I take Shilajit?
No specific timing is necessary; consistency in dosage is vital to observe potential benefits.
When can I expect to see benefits from Shilajit?
Benefits may take several weeks to manifest, and individual responses can vary widely.
Is there evidence supporting Shilajit's efficacy?
Evidence is growing but still somewhat limited; more rigorous studies are necessary for stronger conclusions.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6364418/ – This study is a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showing that 500 mg/day of PrimaVie Shilajit improved muscle strength retention and reduced collagen degradation markers. The study had potential biases due to manufacturer funding.
- https://examine.com/supplements/shilajit/ – Examine's review of Shilajit discusses its potential health benefits, noting that while evidence exists, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to validate claims regarding its efficacy.
- https://jptcp.com/index.php/jptcp/article/view/6677 – This systematic review emphasizes that while Shilajit shows promise for enhancing antioxidant properties and supporting overall health, there is a lack of high-quality evidence and rigorous trials.
- https://www.opss.org/article/shilajit-dietary-supplement-ingredient – This article provides an overview of Shilajit as a dietary ingredient, summarizing its traditional uses and the mechanisms of its active components, while calling for improved research quality.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3296184/ – The review covers the antioxidant properties of Shilajit, indicating its capacity to enhance the body's antioxidant defense system, although the mechanisms behind these effects remain only partially understood.
