Shilajit is a mineral-rich substance that contains numerous health-boosting benefits, like improved iron deficiency and brain function.
This natural, tar-like resin is especially supportive of skin through its ability to promote wound healing, protect the skin against harmful factors, and deliver anti-aging properties.
In this article, we’ll discuss the composition of shilajit, health benefits of shilajit for skin, as well as dosage and safety.
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Benefits of Shilajit for Skin
Shilajit contains various purported therapeutic benefits. Below are the top-researched shilajit benefits for skin health.
1. May Have Anti-Aging Properties
The anti-aging market in the US is worth $18.34 billion. Shilajit is known for its ability to support graceful aging by improving collagen formation and increasing circulation.
A recent study looking at the benefits of shilajit for healthy skin discovered that both low and high doses of shilajit increased the formation of collagen. Collagen encourages a smooth, firm complexion and decreases the likelihood of fine lines. Researchers suggested that these results could lead to fewer fine lines and wrinkles.
Another clinical trial involving middle-aged women found that daily shilajit supplementation increased skin microcirculation, which helps deliver essential nutrients to the skin. Researchers noted that it also improved the growth of the blood vessels, suggesting shilajit may support improved skin tone and detoxification.
2. May Promote Wound Healing
Acne affects around 50 million Americans annually and can significantly reduce quality of life due to discomfort, scabs, and scars. Recent scientific research shows that shilajit contains wound-healing properties and may support those with skin conditions like acne and eczema.
An animal study involving rats with skin ulcers found that a poultice containing fulvic acid (the main active constituent in shilajit) significantly increased how fast the wound healed. Researchers discovered these results were from fulvic acid’s anti-inflammatory properties and ability to form new blood vessels.
In an animal study, researchers discovered that shilajit significantly increased the rate of wound closure after 7 days. One of shilajit’s active constituents, ferulic acid, was responsible for the increase in wound-supporting in the skin, as well as anti-inflammatory effects.
Another animal study observing wounds in diabetic rats found that oral and topical ferulic acid supplementation supported faster wound closure. Researchers noted that increased tissue formation and dilation of the blood vessels were the cause of these results.
3. May Have Skin Protective Properties
Harmful UV rays can induce cellular stress, causing lasting damage to skin cells and increasing the skin’s aging rate. Reviews and studies show that shilajit’s active constituent, ferulic acid, may protect skin from harmful conditions.
In a review, researchers discuss ferulic acid’s potent capacity to act as an antioxidant. Ferulic acid uses its protective properties to absorb harmful rays and neutralize their stress-inducing activity.
An animal study observing ferulic acid found that the compound acts as an antioxidant in the gut. Since there’s a biological connection between the gut and skin, this suggests that shilajit may support skin health through its ability to minimize stress in the gut.
4. May Combat Skin Cancer
Recent data estimates that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Shilajit supplementation may provide preventative and active protective qualities against skin cancer.
In a recent combination study observing melanoma (skin cancer) cells, ferulic acid enhanced the anti-cancer effects of a commonly used tumor-suppressing compound. Researchers found that ferulic acid encouraged cell death in tumor cells.
A study observing the effects of shilajit on liver cancer cells discovered that shilajit supplementation decreased a cancer biomarker that encourages the growth and migration of cancer cells. This cancer biomarker is also prevalent in skin cancer, suggesting shilajit supplementation may have significant anti-cancer effects.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit can be found seeping from rocks in the high altitudes of the Himalayan mountains. It’s a black, resin-like compound created from centuries of decomposing plants.
Considered a Rasayna herb in Ayurvedic medicine (an herb that slows aging and revitalizes the body), shilajit is a phytochemical and nutrient-rich substance containing more than 84 minerals like iron, copper, and zinc.
Shilajit contains numerous therapeutic compounds, like humic acid, ferulic acid, fulvic acid, mineral salts, and amino acids. Research shows that these phytochemicals have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.
How Shilajit Works in the Body:
Shilajit’s active components, such as fulvic acid, and mineral composition (in their ionic forms) help move minerals to cells. These natural trace elements and minerals keep cells in balance, slowing cell death.
These components also strengthen the immune system, help detoxify, and improve the body’s ability to soak up nutrients.
Shilajit Dosage for Skin Health:
Capsules: 300-500 mg, 2x/day
Depending on intended use, shilajit is often mixed with other substances like milk, honey, or triphala.
Paste: 1x/day
Take a pea-sized ball and swallow like a pill.
Timing of shilajit consumption is important, as it is slow to metabolize in the body (12-14 hours after administration).
Topical: Mix a pea-sized ball of shilajit with carrier oil (sweet almond oil or apricot kernel oil are great, light options) or honey and apply to the affected area. After 20 – 30 minutes, wipe with a clean towel.
The Best Shilajit Supplements:
Below is an overview of the best shilajit supplements. You can also click here for an in-depth guide going over our top-recommended shilajit supplements.