Asphaltum, well-known as Shilajit, is a renowned ayurvedic supplement used for a wide range of health issues. Shilajit is a mineral exudate and vegetative derivative expressed from the layers of rock in the mountains. In Ayurveda, Shilajit is a famous Rasayan Dravya (which means rejuvenative remedy) and aphrodisiac agent. Shilajit is also known as the “Conqueror of mountains and Destroyer of weakness” in the Sanskrit language. Traditionally this herb has been used to promote:
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Energy
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Vitality and Virility
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Memory
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Mood
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Absorption of vital nutrients
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Cognitive Improvement
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Normal blood sugar levels
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Systemic detoxification
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Optimized Renal functions
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Healthy Bones
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of Shilajit (Asphaltum) is very complex. It is a phyto-complex, which contains HUMIC SUBSTANCES (HS) like FULVIC ACID, HUMINS and HUMIC ACIDS. It also contains selenium and other minerals in traces. In addition to this, Shilajit also contains small amount of dibenzo-α-pyrones (metabolites derived from plants, fungi, animal feces or mycobionts). Mainly, FULVIC ACID content is responsible for the therapeutic value of the Shilajit.
Medicinal Properties
Shilajit has following therapeutic properties.
Primary Actions
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Alterative
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Rejuvenative agent
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Aphrodisiac
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Spermatogenic
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Nervine tonic
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Heart tonic
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General Supplement
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Anxiolytic
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Antilithiatic (stops formation of stones in kidneys)
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Anti-inflammatory
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Antipyretic (also reduces and prevents restlessness and body aches in fever)
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Anti-obesity
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Anti-diabetic
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Diuretic (action reported only first one to three weeks, there after diuretic effect becomes diminished)
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Antihyperlipidemic
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Cardioprotective
Secondary Actions
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Appetizer
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Digestive stimulant
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Carminative
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Mild laxative
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Anthelmintic
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Blood detoxifier
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Bio-cleanser
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Antiseptic (external application) – rarely used
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Anodyne
Ayurvedic Properties
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Taste – RASA |
Pungent, Bitter & Astringent |
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After taste – ANU-RASA |
Astringent |
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Main Quality – GUNA |
Light in digestion, Dry |
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Potency – VIRYA |
Hot |
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Resultant – VIPAKA |
Pungent |
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Therapeutic Effect – PRABHAVA |
Rejuvenation & Supplement |
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DOSHA KARMA (Effect on Humors) |
Pacifies KAPHA & VATA and Detoxifies PITTA |
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Effects on Organs |
Nerves, Kidneys, Bladder, Reproductive organs, Endocrine Glands (especially Thyroid Gland) |
Therapeutic Indications
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Stress disorders (frequently used)
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Anxiety
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Epilepsy
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Alzheimer’s disease
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High cholesterol levels
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Atherosclerosis
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Anemia (as supportive remedy)
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Congestive heart failure (as supportive remedy)
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Breathing trouble or cough especially due to physical weakness or excessive physical exertion
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Mild abdominal pain
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Chronic Constipation
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Chronic problem of Gas or flatulence
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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Osteoarthritis
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Chronic dysmenorrhea or pelvic pain
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Frequent urination
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Leucorrhea
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Prostate enlargement
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Infertility due to oligospermia