Shilajit (Shailasambhava)
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
Mentioned as an alternative to Guggulu or Jatu, likely for reducing swelling.
Modern description
Shilajit, a mineral pitch, is used as a rejuvenative, to increase strength, and to reduce swelling.
Purpose
Mentioned as an alternative to Guggulu or Jatu, likely for reducing swelling.
Indications
- General debility, fatigue, low immunity, sexual weakness, urinary disorders, diabetes (as an adjuvant), respiratory problems, and as a general tonic. Shilajit is particularly useful for Vata and Kapha imbalances, though its heating nature should be considered for Pitta constitutions.
Classical indications
- Dysuria
- Glycosuria
- Breathing disorders
- Urinary disorders
- Kidney stones
- Oedema
- Skin diseases
- Phthisis
- Piles
- Anaemia
- Epilepsy
- Mental disorders
- Worm infestation
Karma
- Rasayana (rejuvenative)
- Balya (strengthening)
- Vajikara (aphrodisiac)
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Medhya (intellect promoting)
Key ingredients
- Shilajit
Adult dose
250mg - 1g per day, typically divided into two doses.
Pediatric dose
Not recommended for young children, consult a physician for older children.
Preparation steps
- Raw Shilajit is broken down into smaller pieces.
- The broken-down Shilajit is mixed with hot water.
- This mixture is then left to sit for a day.
- The process is repeated several times over a couple of weeks.
- The purified Shilajit is then carefully dried to remove any remaining water.
Safety contraindications
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia.
Related formulations
Classical & Scientific References
- Classical source treatise: Ashtanga Hridaya, Sutra Sthana.
- Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI), Part I & II, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
- Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Sharangadhara Samhita, and Sahasrayogam clinical guidelines.
Published by formulations.directory