Shilajit, a resinous and tar-like substance, traces its origins to the ancient mountains of the Himalayas. For centuries, traditional medicine has heralded its myriad benefits.
As modern individuals grow increasingly curious about this wonder element, the question arises: how long does it take for shilajit to work? Knowing the duration and understanding its effects is crucial for anyone seeking to harness its potential.
In this post, we delve into the science behind Shilajit and the timeframe it requires to work its magic.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a sticky, dark goo from the Himalayas. This natural substance is made over a long time when plants break down with some tiny creatures’ help.
In the world of Ayurveda, an old Indian healing system, it’s a big deal. Called a rasayana, it’s all about boosting health and lifespan. If you’re feeling tired, can’t have kids, or have low iron levels, this might be their solution.
Shilajit is available in a variety of forms, including powder, capsules, and liquid extract.
Where Does Shilajit Come From?
You’ll find Shilajit up in the Himalayan heights – think India, Nepal, and even Tibet, especially between heights of 1,600 to 5,000 meters. The cool, tall spots are just right for making it.
It forms in mountain cracks, being out in the open for ages. Here, plants, from herbs to trees, break down slowly, making this a unique thing because of how special the Himalayan surroundings are.
What Does Shilajit Taste Like?
So, what does it taste like? Strong, a bit on the bitter side and some even say it’s like tasting the road (yep, tar or asphalt!). And its smell is like rubber, the street after rain, or garlic. This bold flavor and aroma come from humic and fulvic acid in it, giving Shilajit its health kick and distinct character.
Key Components of Shilajit
Inside Shilajit, you’ll find:
Humic and fulvic acid: These guys are the reason for Shilajit’s health boosts. Humic fights swelling and harm from free radicals. Fulvic makes sure you get all the good stuff from food.
Minerals: It’s packed with over 84, like the stuff that makes your bones strong and your blood carry oxygen.
Other cool bits: From special compounds like dibenzo-alpha-pyrones to things like amino acids, it’s loaded.
Benefits of Shilajit
Shilajit is a multi-beneficial supplement with unique perks for women. Thinking about trying it? Chat with your doctor to see if it’s a fit for you.
Shilajit, a natural remedy used for ages, boasts several health advantages such as:
- Anti-inflammatory: It has elements that combat body inflammation.
- Antidiabetic: Helps enhance blood sugar management and boosts insulin response.
- Nootropic: Potentially sharpens memory, focus, and responsiveness.
- Antioxidant: Packed with antioxidants, it guards cellular health.
For men, it can elevate testosterone, up the sperm game, and pep up romantic performance.
Benefits of Shilajit For Female
- Eases period pain: With its anti-inflammatory and soothing traits, it’s a balm for menstrual woes.
- Boosts fertility: Balances hormones, aids in ovulation, and ups the quality of eggs, hiking up conception odds.
- Soothes menopausal signs: Lessens those pesky hot flashes, sleepless nights, and mood flips. Plus, it’s a boon for bone health, warding off osteoporosis.
How Long Does It Take for Shilajit to Work?
The response to shilajit might differ among individuals. This means there isn’t a set period to anticipate its effects. Still, research has shown that enhancements in sperm quality and movement can be seen within 30 days. For optimal outcomes, a span of 30 to 90 days might be needed.
However, some people get benefits like a boost in vitality or a better mood in just a matter of days or perhaps a couple of weeks.
If Shilajit is on your list, hang in there and stay regular. While it might take a bit to witness its full impact, many reckon it’s an addition that’s worth the wait.
What Are the Factors that Affect How Long Shilajit Takes To Work?
Shilajit can take its time to kick in, with some folks seeing results in a few days, while others might wait months. But hang tight, soon you might find a spring in your step and a brighter mood.
How soon it works depends on:
- Your health: If you’ve got health concerns like anemia or chronic fatigue, shilajit might work quicker, given its nutrient boost.
- Dosage: Start low and go slow. While a bigger dose may show results faster, ease into it to dodge side effects. Remember, the ideal dose differs from person to person and based on the form you’re using.
- Type and quality of Shilajit: Got the powdered or capsule form? It’s likely to act faster since it dissolves and hits your bloodstream quicker than the liquid.
Other factors that may affect how long shilajit takes to work include:
- Diet: Eating well could pump up Shilajit’s absorption.
- Exercise: Physical activity? Another way to rev up its impact.
- Lifestyle: Catching z’s and chilling out may boost Shilajit’s effectiveness.
So, while waiting for shilajit to do its thing, remember patience is key. For many, it’s well worth the wait.
How To Speed Up The Absorption of Shilajit
Shilajit takes its sweet time to show results, sometimes stretching to weeks or even months. There are a few tricks up the sleeve to get it working faster for you.
Ways to boost shilajit’s absorption:
- Take shilajit on an empty stomach: Always take shilajit when your stomach’s singing the blues. It’ll gulp down its nutrients like a champ.
- Avoid food and drinks for at least 30 minutes after taking shilajit: It’s like giving it a head start before other foods join the party.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated: A hydrated body acts like a sponge for nutrients, shilajit included.
- Take shilajit with milk or another fatty substance: Perfect combo! Fats act like a gateway for shilajit absorption.
- Take shilajit with other supplements that promote absorption, such as piperine or ginger: Think of piperine (that spicy thing in black pepper) as a booster seat. And ginger? It’s like the friendly neighbor helping out.
Armed with these tricks, you’re on the fast track to reaping Shilajit’s benefits sooner than you thought!
How Long Does Shilajit Last?
Shilajit takes roughly 12 hours for half its amount to leave your system. Yet, to truly feel its impact, a sprinkle of patience is needed, given its slow-releasing nature.
A majority need about a fortnight, sometimes a tad longer, of consistent use to spot any changes. For others, the journey might stretch a few months to fully witness its magic.
A word to the wise: there isn’t a one-size-fits-all dosage. It hinges on personal needs and the type you’re using. Starting off on a low note and gradually amping it up is the smart way to dodge any hitches.
While Shilajit takes its time, most find it goes down smoothly. Consistency is the key to unlocking its full potential.
Does Shilajit Expire?
While Shilajit does eventually expire, it usually remains good for a considerable amount of time. This natural substance, which forms over hundreds of years, is packed with health-enhancing minerals and elements. But, as time progresses, its nutritional content might lessen, impacting its potency.
The duration shilajit stays fresh is influenced by its form and its storage conditions.
- Shilajit powder: This form can stay fresh for about a decade when kept in a cool, shaded spot.
- Shilajit capsules: These can remain effective for around 2 years with appropriate storage in a cool, shadowed area.
- Shilajit liquid extract: When stored right, this extract remains usable for close to 2 years in a cool, dim environment.
Dosage and Consumption
How much shilajit one should take often hinges on personal needs and its form. Generally, between 300-500mg daily is suggested.
Shilajit comes in different presentations: capsules, liquid, and powder. While capsules are the handiest, they might cost more.
Liquid shilajit, though more affordable than capsules, can be a bit tricky to gauge and drink.
The powdered form is the most budget-friendly, but mixing it can be challenging, and it might taste strong.
Ways to use it:
- While you can have shilajit before or after meals, consuming it on an empty stomach aids better intake.
- Mixing shilajit with milk, water, or any drink can simplify its consumption.
- Blending shilajit with milk might tone down its strong flavor for some.
- Always heed the advice given by the product’s maker when using shilajit supplements.
Overdosing and Side Effects
While Shilajit is typically safe for many individuals, it’s wise to begin with a minimal dose, and then adjust upwards to prevent any adverse reactions. Excessive consumption can bring about health issues such as:
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Unintended weight reduction
- Digestive discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Migraines
- Body aches
- Light-headedness
- Feeling queasy
- Throwing up
- Feeling anxious
- Difficulty sleeping
Should you notice any of the above reactions after using shilajit, immediately cease its use and seek medical advice.
Other points to be noted:
- Those with specific medical conditions, like iron overload, renal issues, or hepatic ailments, must approach shilajit with caution.
- Shilajit might interfere with some medicines, so ensure you have a conversation with your healthcare.
- Prioritizing shilajit from trustworthy vendors guarantees its authenticity and superior quality.
In short, it’s essential to be vigilant about the dosage and recognize the dangers of excessive intake.
Grade A Shilajit Vs. Other Grades
Shilajit comes in different types, but Grade A stands out as the top-tier quality. Grade A is best absorbed by our bodies due to its bioavailability and has the richest blend of helpful elements.
Other shilajit grades might not be as absorbable and might lack some of these good elements. So, if you opt for a lesser grade, you might need to consume more to achieve the same effect as Grade A.
Always pick your shilajit supplement from trustworthy sellers to guarantee its genuineness and premium grade.
Thinking of trying out a Shilajit supplement? Go for Grade A and ensure your supplier is a reliable one.
Cycling Shilajit Intake
Cycling refers to periodic breaks in supplement use, like shilajit, for various reasons including maintaining its impact and preventing side effects.
Cycling your shilajit intake offers several advantages:
- Maintaining effectiveness: Over continuous use, the body might get used to shilajit, reducing its impact. Periodic breaks can enhance your body’s response, ensuring you gain maximum benefits.
- Optimal use: By cycling, you ensure you don’t consume more than needed, ensuring cost-effectiveness and preventing wastage.
- Minimizing side effects: While shilajit is generally safe, some might experience issues like stomach aches or headaches. Cycling can lower these risks.
Recommendations for cycling patterns:
One popular method is using shilajit for 4-8 weeks, then pausing for 2-3 weeks. This helps maintain its impact and lowers side effects.
Another strategy is consuming shilajit for 5 days, then taking a 2-day break, which is cost-effective and reduces potential side effects.
Combining Shilajit with Other Substances
Shilajit, a natural supplement, pairs well with various ingredients for added health benefits. Some common combinations include:
- Shilajit with honey: Honey not only sweetens shilajit but brings its own set of health benefits, such as antioxidants.
- Shilajit with milk: Milk, rich in essential nutrients, can aid in better shilajit absorption.
- Shilajit with herbal blends: Pairing shilajit with certain herbs amplifies its benefits.
- Shilajit with ashwagandha: Recognized for calming and adaptogenic qualities.
- Shilajit with tribulus terrestris: Valued for its potential to enhance testosterone and libido.
- Shilajit with ginseng: Known to boost energy and improve cognitive functions.
Benefits of herbal integration:
Mixing shilajit with various herbs can:
- Boost overall benefits: The combined effect can offer a broader spectrum of health advantages.
- Provide specific outcomes: Specific herb pairings can help target certain health objectives, such as stress relief or cognitive improvement.
- Mitigate side effects: Some combinations can decrease possible side effects like stomach issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Shilajit increase testosterone in females?
In our research, Shilajit may boost testosterone in men. However, we don't have enough data about its effects on women's testosterone. So, we can't confirm if it raises levels in females.
Can you take Shilajit before bed?
Yes, taking Shilajit before bed is okay. Some folks even say it improves their sleep. It has ingredients like fulvic acid and trace minerals that can help you relax and sleep well.
Does Shilajit help with acne?
Shilajit, used for ages in old remedies, can help with acne. It has ingredients that fight inflammation and germs. Some research shows applying Shilajit gel can lessen acne and make skin look better.
Does Shilajit affect sleep?
Some folks sleep better after taking Shilajit because it has ingredients like fulvic acid that aid relaxation. Yet, a few feel energized by it. If shilajit keeps you awake, don't take it before bedtime.
Can I take Shilajit while pregnant?
It's best not to take Shilajit when pregnant. We lack enough research on its safety during pregnancy, and it might have side effects like raising blood pressure.
Does Shilajit increase testosterone level?
Yes, Shilajit might raise testosterone levels. Some research suggests it can boost men's levels by 20%. But we need more studies to be sure. Ingredients in it, like fulvic acid, could help improve testosterone functions.
How much does Shilajit increase testosterone?
The testosterone boost from Shilajit differs among people. Some research indicates a rise of up to 20%, but other studies show lesser increases.
Is Shilajit good for diabetes?
Shilajit might help control blood sugar in diabetics. Research has found that type 2 diabetes patients taking Shilajit saw notable drops in blood sugar after 12 weeks.
How much is Shilajit?
Shilajit's cost depends on its quality, purity, and the brand. Top-notch, Grade A shilajit is pricier. Typically:
• Powder form costs $10-$20/ounce.
• Capsules are $20-$30 for a 60-count bottle.
• Liquid form is $30-$40 for a 30ml bottle.
Can women take Shilajit?
Yes, women can use Shilajit. This natural remedy has been around for ages, helping with issues like infertility, period pains, and menopause signs.
Final Thoughts
Shilajit is a natural remedy used in ancient medicine. It can enhance energy, sharpen mental abilities, and elevate athletic skills.
Shilajit works slowly. To see its full benefits, one might wait weeks or even months. Always begin with a minimal amount to dodge side effects.
Before using shilajit, consult your doctor. They can guide you on its suitability and the optimal amount.
Read next: Essential Oils For Stamina
References:
- International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease Research, PubMed Central, Carlos Carrasco-Gallardo, et al., 2012, Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity
- Andrologia, PubMed, S Pandit, et al., 2016, Clinical evaluation of purified Shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Science Direct, Dinesh Kumar Surapaneni, et al, 2012, Shilajit attenuates behavioral symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome by modulating the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and mitochondrial bioenergetics in rats.
- Andrologia, PuMed, T K Biswas, et al, 2010, Clinical evaluation of spermatogenic activity of processed Shilajit in oligospermia.