High in the Himalayas, where the air is thin and the wind carries whispers to the snow-capped peaks, lies a mysterious treasure – Shilajit. Unlike common gemstones or shiny gold, Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like substance, a black resin that has formed over centuries in the heart of the mountains. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Govind, Chief Innovation Officer, Kapiva, said, “In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, Shilajit has been highly valued for its health benefits. Research has shown that Shilajit may aid in the absorption of nutrients and strengthen the immune system by increasing antioxidant levels, which may improve defenses against infections and diseases.”
He further adds, “Studies also suggest that shilajit has anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall health and wellness. Have you ever wondered how this priceless treasure from the ancient mountains of the Himalayas reached us and boosted our immunity along the way?”
A Gift from the Mountain: The Shilajit Formation
Dr Govind revealed, “Himalayan Shilajit, sourced from the Himalayan mountains at an altitude of 18,000 feet, is a fossil formed by the natural decomposition of plants and animals. Crushed into rocks over countless ages, this organic matter is transformed into a valuable substance containing fulvic acid, humic acid and over 80 beneficial minerals. It is harvested when it seeps out from the cracks in the rocks during summers. It then emerges from the rocks during the summer months. It requires purification in a GMP certified facility using the Ayurvedic process known as Shodhana to remove physical and chemical impurities.”
He explained, “In Shodhana process, Triphala blend of Haritaki, Bibhitaki and Amla fruits is boiled in water to make a decoction. Raw shilajit is dissolved in this mixture and filtered through 400# muslin cloth to remove impurities. Further, the dissolved shilajit is infused in the triphala decoction, heated at 60°C and stirred for a few hours to neutralise the impurities. The solution is then heated to evaporate the water resulting in a purified black, sticky mass. As a final step, the purified shilajit undergoes rigorous testing to ascertain its quality and potency. It is then packed and dispatched, with each batch accompanied by a NABL lab tested report. The shilajit is then isolated, cooled and available in various forms like resin, capsules, gummies, powder and tablets to promote vitality and longevity.”
Ayurvedic treasure: the benefits of Shilajit
“Imagine having the energy and endurance to play your favorite sport without getting tired quickly. Or think of getting over a cold faster so you can get back to your normal routine sooner. These are everyday situations where having good physical strength, stamina and immunity makes a difference. Using Shilajit in your daily life is not just about taking a supplement, it’s about feeling stronger and healthier every day. Whether it’s the energy to finish a tough workout or the strength to fight off a cold, Shilajit helps us feel our best. It is nature’s gift to support us in improving our daily lives,” says Dr. Govind. In Ayurvedic teachings, Shilajit is considered an adaptogen responsible for managing the body’s response to stress and maintaining balance. The ancient Ayurvedic text, Sushruta Samhita, extolls Shilajit’s rejuvenating, laxative and energy-boosting powers.1. Strengthen your immune system: It helps strengthen the body’s immune system by improving the function of white blood cells, which play a key role in fighting infections.
2. Increase your strength and stamina:Whether you are managing a busy work schedule, household chores or simply maintaining the energy levels required for social activities, Shilajit can help. The essential minerals in Shilajit provide oxygen to the human body, supplying it to each part of the body and increasing stamina and vitality. Thus, you can carry out your daily tasks with enthusiasm and stamina, experience less fatigue and improve your overall performance in your day-to-day activities. So, whether you are managing a multitude of responsibilities or simply maintaining your energy throughout the day, incorporating Shilajit into your daily routine can be a companion that helps you manage life’s challenges with more grace and resilience.
3. Energy Boost: Shilajit has been shown to increase energy levels and reduce fatigue, thanks to its potential to support the function of mitochondria, the energy-producing powerhouses in cells.
4. Anti-inflammatory: Shilajit’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation and manage conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and chronic pain. Shilajit contains fulvic acid and other bioactive compounds that inhibit inflammatory mediators, potentially improving symptoms and promoting overall health. This makes shilajit a promising natural supplement for inflammation-related problems.
Dr Govind asserted, “Incorporating Shilajit into your Ayurvedic practice boosts your overall strength, stamina and immunity, making everyday challenges more manageable. From taking on demanding tasks to withstanding everyday stresses, Shilajit boosts vitality and keeps you energised and focused all day long.”
He concludes: “To get the most out of shilajit and ensure a positive experience, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines: start with a small amount and gradually increase as your body gets used to it. This will help prevent discomfort. It is recommended to take shilajit on an empty stomach as this aids absorption. It is particularly suitable for those looking to boost their immunity, increase stamina and improve energy levels. Additionally, shilajit may also be beneficial for those interested in a natural supplement to support their fitness goals or combat fatigue.”
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