Formation and Discovery
Shilajit is a natural resin formed during the late Triassic period, around 200 million years ago, when geological activity trapped ancient plant life and ammonites beneath layers of sediment in the Himalayas, Caucasus Mountains, Altai Mountains, and Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan. As the Indian continental plate drifted northward and collided with the Eurasian plate about 55 million years ago, the resulting pressure and heat transformed the trapped organic matter into shilajit. Shilajit is a nutrient-rich resin that seeps from the mountains in warmer weather.
The Himalayas, known for their rich biodiversity and varied climates, supported lush, tropical forests that were compressed and broken down into this unique resin. The early human inhabitants observed large white monkeys consuming a substance. the substance emerged from mountain crevices and attributed the monkeys’ strength and longevity to it. This led to the discovery of shilajit as a valuable medicinal substance.
Historical Significance
Shilajit has been utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years, celebrated as a powerful rasayana, or rejuvenating substance. In Sanskrit, it means “conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness.” Historical accounts suggest that Aristotle and Alexander the Great were aware of shilajit’s benefits. Aristotle even described its uses and Alexander allegedly included it in his soldiers’ rations for increased endurance.
Composition and Benefits
Shilajit is rich in humus, fulvic acid, dibenzo-a-pyrones, and various ionic minerals. Fulvic acid, a major component, is known for its ability to enhance nutrient absorption and act as a potent antioxidant. It binds to nutrients, making them more accessible to cells, and helps reduce oxidative stress.
The decomposition of plant matter into humus is crucial, as it contains fulvic acid which is not present in compost. Industrial farming practices have depleted soil humus, impacting nutrient availability. This depletion makes shilajit, which contains fulvic acid from ancient sources, especially valuable.
Our Exploration
We always knew the benefits of Shilajit, as our product range at Sukham includes Purified Shilajit capsules. However, we noticed many customers expressing concerns about absorption time and digestive issues.
That’s when we decided to innovate and launch Shilajit Drops—a unique form of Shilajit not previously available in India. This new format enhances the purity of the resin through advanced distillation process and significantly improves absorption. By using drops, we eliminate unnecessary steps involved with capsules and resin, bypassing the digestive process entirely.
Mechanism and Research
Shilajit supports mitochondrial function by enhancing ATP production, which is essential for cellular energy and repair. It helps convert fats and sugars into ATP and protects mitochondria from oxidative damage.
Additionally, shilajit has been shown to support collagen and bone health. Studies indicate that it up-regulates genes associated with muscle repair and bone formation, which can be beneficial for overall human health.
Choosing Quality Shilajit
Sukham uses high-quality shilajit ethically sourced directly from cultivators in the Himalayas. These cultivators extract the compounds from high-altitude sources and ensure its purity and efficacy. Given the proliferation of lower-quality shilajit products in the market, it is important to select reputable sources. Such practice will ensure the benefits of this ancient resin.
Conclusion
Shilajit, with its long history and extensive health benefits, continues to be a valuable supplement. It is recommended for enhancing energy, supporting recovery, and improving overall well-being in humans. Its effects can be profound, making it a worthwhile addition to any wellness regimen. Choose Sukham Shilajit Drops for the ultimate absorption experience that acts fast and stays long.
References
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3. Bhattacharyya, S., et al. (2009). Beneficial effect of processed shilajit on swimming exercise-induced impaired energy status of mice. Pharmacologyonline, 1, 817-825.
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8. Duberley, K. E., et al. (2013). Human neuronal coenzyme Q10 deficiency results in global loss of mitochondrial respiratory chain activity, increased mitochondrial oxidative stress and reversal of ATP synthase activity: Implications for pathogenesis and treatment. Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease, 36(1), 63-73.
9. Amavita Das, et al. (2016). The human skeletal muscle transcriptome in response to oral shilajit supplementation. Journal of Medicinal Food, 19(7), 701-709.
10. Roy, S. (pending publication). Human skeletal muscle extracellular matrix fortification in response to oral supplementation with PrimaVie shilajit. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio.
11. Lawley, S., et al. (2013). Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic efficacy and safety of purified shilajit in moderately arthritic dogs. Journal of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, 1(3), ISSN: 2348-9790.
