Ingredient profile
Shilajit
Asphaltum
A mineral-rich, resin-like substance valued in Ayurveda for centuries and purified by the classical Surya Tapi (sun-dried) method before use.
- Hindi
- शिलाजीत
- Sanskrit
- Shilajatu
- Family
- Mineral exudate
- Part used
- resin
Traditional use
Shilajit is not a plant but a dark, tar-like natural substance that forms slowly from mineral and plant matter in rock. Its Sanskrit name, Shilajatu, means “born of the rock”. In its traditional form it is a sticky resin that softens with warmth.
In Ayurvedic tradition
Classical Ayurvedic texts describe shilajit as a powerful rasayana for stamina and vitality. Raw shilajit is never used directly: it is first purified by Shodhana, most often the Surya Tapi method, in which it is dissolved in water, filtered and slowly dried in sunlight.
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa (taste): Bitter, pungent, astringent
- Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Pungent
- Effect on the doshas: Balances kapha and vata
How it is traditionally taken
A small, pea-sized portion of purified resin is traditionally dissolved in warm water or milk and taken once a day. Resin, powder and capsule forms are all sold, but resin is the traditional form.
Safety notes
Not for use during pregnancy or nursing. Consult a physician if you have gout or raised uric acid, or take medication. Use as directed on the product label. This profile is for general education and is not medical advice.
References
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (monograph: Shilajatu) pharmacopoeia