Shilajit is black/brown powder from north of India which comes from rocks high in the Himalayan mountains. It is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for rejuvenation and anti-aging, and is enriched in fulvic acid and related chemicals. It is believed to be produced by plant decomposition over centuries. Shilajit has powerful antioxidant activity, and the chemical contents vary with region of origin.
The Ayurvedic traditional uses of shilajit are for longevity and anti-aging. Andean shilajit, a more recently discovered form of shilajit from northern Chile, shows evidence for improving cognitive disorders in humans, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Shilajit has been used for urinary and digestive disorders also.
Preclinical studies show potential for shilajit in treating ulcers, memory problems, diabetes, allergies, inflammation, and fungal infections. Some studies have shown that shilajit may contain mold and heavy metals, such as lead, arsenic, and mercury, so that a reliable and tested product must be sought out for use.
CONCLUSION: Shilajit is a strong dietary supplement with numerous traditional benefits. Among other uses, it benefits cognition and may prove to be a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. More study is needed.
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PMID: 22482077.
Summary #675.
