Shilajit – Effects and Application: Black Gold from the Himalayas

Shilajit - sounds mysterious, doesn't it? And in a way, it is. But Shilajit has not only been used for millennia in Ayurvedic medicine. More and more scientific studies are now looking into the effects of Shilajit.

But what is really behind the dark resin from the highest mountains in the world? And why are more and more women and men swearing by the energizing and hormone-balancing properties of this very special substance?

In this article, you'll find out! We'll look at where Shilajit comes from and what it consists of, what it's used for, and what side effects it can have.

Shilajit is a dark brown to black natural product found in the high mountain regions of Asia. The name comes from Sanskrit and means something like "conqueror of mountains" or "destroyer of weakness" - sounds pretty exciting, doesn't it? In Germany, the term "Mumijo" is also often used, but this has nothing to do with the mummies of ancient Egypt.

For a long time, it was not known what Shilajit actually is and how it is formed. In the 1990s, the material was finally categorized as a "complex high-molecular organic-mineral metabolic product of aerobic microorganisms, formed in the decomposition process of plant residues, lichens, and resins." The latest studies confirm this definition. (1)

Shilajit is formed in a centuries-long process in the high mountains of the Himalayas, the Altai Mountains, Hindukush, and Caucasus. Plant material, along with minerals, is decomposed over 200 years and longer by the aforementioned decomposition processes and movements of the earth's crust. Shilajit then seeps out of rock crevices and is traditionally collected by the inhabitants of the mountain regions.

Depending on the location, the different types of Mumijo vary. What they all have in common is that they dissolve well in water.

Studies show that Shilajit contains a unique combination of over 85 different minerals and compounds. These include:

A true superstar and responsible for many of Shilajit's positive effects. Fulvic acid is an organic acid that improves nutrient absorption at the cellular level. It may even have neuroprotective properties and thus potentially prevent diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. (2)

In addition to fulvic acid, Shilajit contains a wide range of vital minerals and trace elements such as zinc, iron, magnesium, and copper. These are needed for numerous bodily functions and help maintain long-term health.

Humins are compounds that are formed during the decomposition of plant material. In the human body, they act as natural antioxidants and boost the immune system.

In addition, various vitamins (especially B vitamins) and micronutrients have been detected in Shilajit, which further promote your health.

Shilajit has a whole range of positive effects on your body. Some of them have already been investigated in studies, while others are currently the subject of ongoing research. Let's look at what is already known.

Are you often tired and feel completely drained? Shilajit can help here. The fulvic acid it contains activates the mitochondria - the powerhouses of our cells. This improves ATP synthesis, i.e., the production of energy in our cells. This is also confirmed by studies on mountaineers. (3)

In addition, Shilajit improves oxygen transport in the blood and reduces oxidative stress by activating antioxidant enzymes. However, the effect is not immediately noticeable - expect 2-4 weeks for the first energy boost, and it will be optimal after 8-12 weeks of regular intake.

Tip for CBD fans: The energizing effect of Shilajit can be ideally combined with the balancing, relaxing effect of CBD oil. Shilajit provides the morning energy boost, CBD helps in the evening for better sleep and regeneration.

Your brain benefits from taking Shilajit on several levels. Fulvic acid can protect nerve cells from harmful deposits associated with Alzheimer's.

The resin also improves the balance of important neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin and promotes blood circulation in the brain.

Your brain benefits from taking Shilajit on several levels. Fulvic acid can protect nerve cells from harmful deposits associated with Alzheimer's.

The resin also improves the balance of important neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin and promotes blood circulation in the brain.

Chronic inflammation is now linked to countless lifestyle diseases. According to the latest studies, shilajit can intervene here by inhibiting the NF-kappa-B signaling pathway – a central inflammatory mechanism in the body. (4) At the same time, it supports collagen synthesis, which is important not only for joints, but also for skin and connective tissue.

People with arthritis or chronic joint pain, in particular, report that shilajit relieves their symptoms. Shilajit is also very valuable for athletes. It reduces muscle damage and promotes recovery after intense training.

In recent years, women in particular have discovered shilajit for themselves, and for good reason. Because: The needs of the female body are particularly supported by the resin.

Shilajit is traditionally used in connection with hormone-regulating processes. This means shilajit can help with hormonally induced changes, for example during menopause.

Many women also report a significant alleviation of their PMS symptoms through the regular intake of shilajit. The influence on the hormone system also plays a role here. In addition, the high content of minerals and trace elements, which can also have a positive effect on the symptoms, is probably a factor.

Our tip for women: In combination with shilajit, CBD oil can help to rebalance hormones, improve mood and relieve pain. Both together are ideal support for menstrual complaints, PMS and symptoms of (peri)menopause.

Especially relevant for menstruating women: fulvic acid significantly increases the bioavailability of iron. This means that the body can absorb iron from food or supplements much better. Shilajit also supports hemoglobin synthesis, thus reducing the risk of iron deficiency anemia.

The antioxidant effects of shilajit protect the skin from UV damage and collagen degradation. The resin promotes cell renewal and improves skin elasticity from within. Many women swear by shilajit as a way to feel younger and fresher in the long term.

Shilajit activates the mitochondria and can therefore increase the basal metabolic rate – meaning you burn more calories, even when you're just sitting on the sofa. Additionally, it can lower cortisol levels in the blood. Less of this ultimate stress hormone leads to less cravings and helps you lose weight healthily or maintain your weight.

Shilajit can improve testosterone sensitivity - the testosterone in your blood (yes, women also have testosterone) is used more effectively. This can have a positive effect on your libido and enjoyment in bed. Shilajit intake can also increase testosterone levels in men.

Mumijo/Shilajit is available in many different forms. Shilajit comes in various forms, including liquid extract, powder, and capsules. The most natural form is the pure resin. The variety mined in the Himalayas usually contains a particularly high amount of fulvic acid compared to other varieties.

Which dosage form is best for you depends on your personal preferences - but also on what you use shilajit for:

The most traditional form with the highest absorption rate by the body (over 90%). However, the resin has a rather acquired taste - bitter and earthy. A rice grain-sized amount is dissolved in warm (not hot!) water or milk.

The most practical option for on the go with a neutral taste and good absorption rate (75-85%). Similar to CBD oil, dosage is particularly easy and precise here.

Inexpensive and versatile, can be mixed into smoothies or juices. The taste is somewhat milder than pure resin. Be careful of cheap providers who sometimes mix dangerous additives into the powder!

Very fast absorption with dropper bottles, precisely dosable, but also rather expensive.

Shilajit can look very different. Consistency and composition also vary depending on the mining area and supplier. For laypeople, it is therefore not always easy to identify high-quality products. Look for evidence of the product's quality, also to rule out possible dangerous residues such as heavy metals and mold.

Morning is ideal for an energy boost. Take shilajit with a fatty meal - some of the ingredients are fat-soluble and are absorbed better this way. Avoid taking it in the evening to avoid affecting your sleep. For relaxation in the evening, we recommend a special sleep CBD oil with melatonin.

You simply dissolve the resin in some warm, but not hot, water or milk. The warmth helps it dissolve, but too much heat would destroy valuable ingredients.

For more energy: Start with 100mg daily, increase to 300-500mg after one week. Take shilajit 1-2 times daily for 8-12 weeks.

Better concentration & memory: Start with 150mg, optimal is 300-400mg daily for 12-16 weeks.

For PMS and cycle problems: 150mg to start, then 400-500mg daily for at least 3 cycles.

For weight loss: Start at 200mg, slowly increase to 400-600mg daily. Continue for at least 12 weeks.

During menopause: 200mg initially, then 500-600mg per day long-term.

Even natural products are not without possible side effects. But: Similar to CBD oil, the side effects of shilajit are very minor and quickly disappear if you reduce the dose.

Some people report nausea and stomach pain when taking it. These usually occur when you overdose or take shilajit on an empty stomach. The solution: Take it with food and reduce the dose. Relatively often, users also report diarrhea. Here too, reducing the dose helps.

Headaches and dizziness/fatigue in the first few days are often a result of the body's detoxification reaction. They usually pass on their own. If you still have symptoms after 3-7 days, reduce the dose.

More rarely, skin rash or itching may occur after taking Mumijo. This is probably an allergic reaction. Stop taking it and contact a doctor.

In some pre-existing conditions, you should only use shilajit with caution. These include low blood pressure (shilajit lowers blood pressure) as well as kidney or liver diseases. If you still want to take shilajit, please discuss it with your doctor beforehand.

In addition, shilajit can interact with certain medications. Particular caution is advised with: blood thinners, blood pressure medications, iron supplements, and certain diabetes medications. If you are taking these medications or are unsure whether interactions are possible, please also speak to your doctor.

You should under no circumstances take shilajit during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or if you have gout and iron overload (hemochromatosis). It is also not suitable for children.

Yes, as a dietary supplement, it is completely legal and freely available.

Yes, it is a purely plant-mineral natural product.

These are just different terms for the same substance. Sometimes you also read the term "Asphaltum punjabinum".

Shilajit is definitely more than just a trend. The "black gold" has been successfully used in natural medicine for centuries. Meanwhile, scientific studies also show that the natural substance can help improve physical and mental performance and balance hormone levels. Shilajit can particularly help women with hormonally related symptoms such as PMS or (peri)menopause.

Shilajit is, of course, not a miracle cure, but a great tool from nature's treasure chest. In combination with a healthy lifestyle, sufficient sleep and possibly other dietary supplements like CBD, it can noticeably improve your vitality, well-being and quality of life. Thousands of years of tradition meet modern science - the result is definitely impressive!

Medical Disclaimer