Shilajit, also known as Mummiyo, Mumie, and Moomiyo, shilajit has been a part of Ayurveda as traditional folk medicine since time immemorial.
Found oozing from the crevices of several mountains across the world, Shilajit has been part of several Ayurvedic medicines for ages.
Although it is often associated with male sexual prowess, virility and shilajit for erectile dysfunction , it has also been useful in diabetes management, alleviating stress & anxiety, treating ulcers, improving cardiac function, and more.
Today, we will discuss more on how to use Shilajit for men and the various forms it comes in.
Forms of Shilajit
There are different forms of shilajit. One should know the different types available, so the choices do not overwhelm you. Read on!
Shilajit Resin
Often, the gooey substance extracted from the mountain’s crevices is this resinous form of Shilajit. It is least refined, unlike the powdered or capsule forms and loaded with the goodness of nature. You can easily find them in online and local stores.
Shilajit Liquid
This is a slightly more refined version than the resin one. It comes in the form of a semi-viscous liquid that can either be taken directly or mixed with a drink of choice. Since it is processed using the evaporation technique, most of the natural ingredients are available.
Shilajit Solid
This is the most common type used, preferably for the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines. It is obtained by over-drying the resinous form either naturally or at high temperatures. This form is very similar to resin Shilajit.
Shilajit Powder
The powdered form of shilajit is yet another step up on the refinement ladder. It is available in different colors of black, brown, and amber. Most people prefer taking powder form over any of the ones mentioned above, as it is easier to mix with drinks, such as milk, water, smoothies, etc.; if prepared well, it has a higher concentration of nutrients and minerals than the solid form. When pure, it dissolves readily in the water with nothing left behind.
Shilajit Tablets
These are prepared from the powdered form of shilajit. It is concentrated and usually comes in a prefixed dosage amount. Tablets are best for people who do not like consuming powder.
Shilajit Capsules
Like tablets, capsules have powdered shilajit inside. However, the downside here is that there is no way of ascertaining their purity.
How to Use Shilajit
Many people want to consume Shilajit but often are not sure about the ways in which it can be consumed. Here are some of the accepted ways and dosages to incorporate it into your daily wellness regimen.
Raw shilajit
The most commonly used form of Shilajit- is the raw shilajit. It includes - Liquid, resin, and solid forms of shilajit.
You can add Shilajit to your favorite drinks, smoothies, teas, and more. Solid form can be taken orally as well.
Shilajit syrup
Prepared from the resinous or liquid extract, the Shilajit syrup is a concentrated concoction. It can be taken after adding to a lukewarm glass of water or milk or mixed with fruit juices. You can easily find them in a local medical store or an online store.
Shilajit with milk - How to take shilajit with milk?
This is the most commonly used form of Shilajit. Mix the Shilajit, powder or liquid form, in a glass of lukewarm milk. Take it two to three times a day as instructed by your doctor.
Shilajit capsule
Consuming a Shilajit capsule is probably the easiest way if you have queries such as how to take shilajit capsules. Just take the recommended dosage by the doctor with a glass of water or milk or a drink of your choosing.
Capsules are preferred as they are a no-fuss, hassle-free solution to get your dose of nutrition. Just pop a pill and watch the panacea herb do all its magic on you.
Shilajit oil - Prepared from Shilajit extract, the oil is in a very concentrated form. Add 3-4 drops (or as recommended) to your drink (tea, milk, water, etc.) for consumption.
Shilajit Gold
Shilajit Gold is a form of shilajit capsules. It is made with Kesar. Shilajit Gold is considered to be an ayurvedic way to treat erectile dysfunction.
Shilajit Churna Balls
Shilajit churna balls are a quick and easy way to take shilajit. These churna balls are made with Ashwagandha, safed musli and shilajit and is an incredible way to get the best herbs in in your body in a convenient and beneficial way.
Shilajit chyawanprash
Chyawanprash is a paste prepared from mixing several herbs and elements. It boosts a person’s immunity, slows down aging, and infuses the body with much-needed nutrients. Many brands now add Shilajit to the traditional recipe to make the chyawanprash more potent. A spoon or two of this mixture can be consumed twice a day with water or milk.
FAQs
Does Shilajit expire?
Yes. Like other food items, depending on the form of shilajit, processed or raw, it expires. Although the shelf life varies, on average it lasts three years from its manufacturing date.
How much Shilajit per day?
While the dosage amount can vary depending on the person’s age and medical issues, an average healthy person can consume 300-500 mg of shilajit every day.
How to consume Shilajit Powder?
Shilajit powder can be taken orally with water or mixed with smoothies, milk, tea, and other drinks.
When to take Shilajit powder- day or night?
Depending upon your requirement, shilajit can be taken either during the day or at night before going to bed. For instance, if you are consuming shilajit chyawanprash, it is best to take it once early in the morning with milk on an empty stomach and once before bed. Consult your doctor before consumption.
Side Effects of Shilajit
Shilajit is considered safe if taken in moderation. However, doctors advise against consuming it in the raw form as it may contain some heavy metals, fungus, and other allergens. If you have a pre-existing condition such as thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, hemochromatosis, and a heart condition, it is best to avoid taking shilajit.
References
- G.V. Rajamanickam, Petra Klose, G P Dubey & Eugene Wilson, July 2011; Review on shilajit used in traditional Indian medicine- (PDF) Review on shilajit used in traditional Indian medicine (researchgate.net)
- Kishor Pant, Bimala Singh, Nagendra Thakur, August 2012; Shilajit: A Humic Matter Panacea for Cancer- (2) (PDF) Shilajit: A Humic Matter Panacea for Cancer | Nagendra Thakur - Academia.edu
- Carlos Carrasco Gallardo, Leonardo Guzmán and Ricardo B. Maccioni*, February 2013; Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity- Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity (nih.gov)