Shilajit is a blackish, tar-like substance that contains high levels of nutrients and is created by decomposing plants.
This shilajit resin is known for its numerous health-supporting benefits, such as increased hair growth, improved energy, and immune support.
In this article, we’ll discuss the main benefits of shilajit for hair growth, the composition of shilajit, as well as dosage and safety.
Table of Contents
Health Benefits of Shilajit for Hair Growth:
Shilajit contains many vitamins, minerals (over 84), and active constituents that promote hair health. Below are the top research-backed health benefits of shilajit for both male and female hair growth.
Shilajit Minerals for Hair Growth
Shilajit contains many nutrients including sulfur, zinc, iron, magnesium, and fulvic acid, one of its main active constituents. These nutrients play a key role in hair health and may encourage growth. Fulvic acid is also known for its ability to regulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, eradicate microbes, and reduce oxidative stress.
When shilajit is ingested, it increases the absorption of minerals into the bloodstream, boosting the body’s intake of essential nutrients and enhancing cellular processes like hair growth. Shilajit’s ability to increase nutrient bioavailability makes it a highly supportive dietary supplement.
Fulvic Acid for Hair Growth
A review of shilajit explains that fulvic acid acts as a carrier molecule. It carries nutrients deep into tissues and cells, helping maintain and restore their health and preventing cellular death. It also increases the body’s capacity to absorb minerals (especially iron) and remove deep-seated toxins.
Since excessive buildup of toxic metals and mineral deficiencies are linked to hair loss, fulvic acid may support hair regrowth and health by ensuring cells have adequate minerals to carry out essential processes.
Sulfur for Hair Growth
In a study on sulfur-containing supplements, researchers discovered that sulfur supports the bond between proteins called keratin, which make up 95% of hair. It also encourages detoxification in cells and reduces oxidative stress. These actions positively influence the stability of cells, which may promote the growth and maintenance of healthy hair.
Zinc for Hair Growth
Zinc is necessary for the division and growth of hair cells. In a clinical study observing patients with alopecia areata, daily zinc supplementation increased hair growth in 66.7% of patients. A review of minerals for hair loss found that patients experiencing hair loss had statistically lower zinc levels than subjects with average hair growth.
Iron for Hair Growth
Since iron helps the body create the protein hemoglobin in red blood cells, it’s essential for the transport of oxygen to cells – including cells that support hair growth. A review of minerals and hair loss mentioned that some genes in the human hair follicle may be regulated by iron. Additionally, an animal study observing mice with hair loss found that iron supplementation restored some hair growth.
Magnesium for Hair Growth
Magnesium is involved in hair growth through the formation of proteins, cell division, and cell growth. In a study involving women with self-perceived thinning hair, researchers discovered that daily magnesium supplementation improved overall hair volume, scalp coverage, and hair thickness, suggesting that magnesium may support healthy hair growth for those managing hair loss.
Vitamins for Hair Growth
Shilajit contains vitamins which are important for healthy hair. Vitamins, such as A, C, D, E, and B vitamins (like biotin and niacin), all play a part in the hair growth process. For example, vitamin A is necessary for cellular growth, B vitamins are important for cellular development, functioning, and signaling, and vitamin D supports processes in the hair follicle.
A clinical trial involving volunteers managing hair loss found that oral vitamin E supplementation significantly improved hair growth. Subjects experienced a 34.5% increase in hair growth after 8 months of supplementation.
In an animal study, researchers observed that daily dietary supplementation of vitamin A stimulated hair follicles. They noted that a “precise level [of vitamin A] was needed for optimal function.” Excess vitamin A supplementation is known to cause hair loss.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit resin is created through the decomposition of plants. It’s found in high-altitude regions of the Himalayan mountains where the black, tar-like substance seeps from rocks.
Shilajit is known for its dense mineral and phytochemical content. It contains over 84 minerals like zinc, iron, copper, and silver.
The resin is considered a Rasayana herb in Ayurveda and has been used for centuries to revitalize the body and slow aging.
Shilajit contains many health-boosting benefits, such as its adaptogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The minerals, humic acid, fulvic acid, phenolic glucosides, and amino acids, that are found in shilajit resin are thought to be responsible for shilajit’s supportive activity.
Shilajit is generally safe to use, but click here for a full safety overview of this herb.
How Shilajit Works in the Body:
Shilajit’s rich nutrient composition and active constituents (specifically fulvic acid) aid the body’s transportation of minerals to cells. These minerals (in their ionic forms) and phytochemicals are responsible for cellular balance, which reduces cellular decay and death.
Through their activity in the body, shilajit’s minerals and phytochemicals are thought to boost immune function, support detoxification, and increase the body’s ability to absorb nutrients.
Ways to Use Shilajit for Hair Growth & Shilajit Dosage:
Capsules: 300-500 mg, 2x/day
Shilajit Hair Oil: Add ½ gram shilajit powder to a carrier oil (like melted coconut oil or argan oil) until it forms a paste. Massage gently into affected areas.
Shilajit Tea: Add 200 mg of resin to 1 cup of boiling water, then stir until fully dissolved.
Shilajit powder is also mixed with other substances like milk, honey, or triphala, depending on intended use.
When dosing with shilajit, it’s important to choose a high quality supplement. Click here to read more about our top recommended shilajit dietary and gummy supplements.
It’s important to consider the timing of shilajit consumption, as it is slow to metabolize in the body (12-14 hours after administration).
Conclusion:
Shilajit is a nutrient-dense natural substance that may encourage hair growth through increased mineral consumption. Supplementing with shilajit may stimulate hair growth, encourage healthier and fuller hair, and reduce the likelihood of hair loss.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before implementing shilajit into your daily regimen.
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Muizzuddin, PhD., Neelam. (2019). Beneficial Effects of a Sulfur-Containing Supplement on Hair and Nail Condition. Natural Medicine Journal. https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/beneficial-effects-sulfur-containing-supplement-hair-and-nail-condition
Park, H., Kim, C. W., Kim, S. S., & Park, C. W. (2009). The therapeutic effect and the changed serum zinc level after zinc supplementation in alopecia areata patients who had a low serum zinc level. Annals of dermatology, 21(2), 142–146. https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2009.21.2.142
