Shilajit is a blackish tar-like substance that provides numerous benefits, like increased energy levels and brain function.
This mineral-rich resin is specifically supportive of women through its ability to combat iron deficiencies, reduce menopausal or menstrual cycle symptoms, and protect the skin.
In this article, we’ll discuss the composition of shilajit, how shilajit benefits women, as well as dosage and safety.
Table of Contents
Health Benefits of Shilajit for Women:
Shilajit has many purported health benefits for both men and women. Below are the top research-backed health benefits of shilajit for women.
1. May Support Weight Loss
In the US, excess weight and obesity affect women (40%) slightly more than men (35%). Shilajit may benefit women by encouraging weight loss.
In a clinical study observing 66 patients with obesity, researchers found that shilajit helps significantly reduced body weight and body mass index. 92% of participants saw mild-to-moderate changes in their body weight, suggesting shilajit may be helpful for weight loss.
Another clinical trial discovered that shilajit supplementation encouraged the ability to support more weight. Researchers reported that the shilajit encouraged participants’ muscles to grow and repair faster.
2. May Combat Iron Deficiency & Anemia
Iron deficiency and anemia are common among women who experience menstruation. Due to shilajit’s iron levels, the substance is known to benefit those experiencing iron deficiency and anemia.
In a review of shilajit research, scientists noted that shilajit is rich in iron and fulvic acid, which helps the body absorb more minerals. This suggests that taking shilajit with iron-rich herbs or foods may increase how much iron the body takes in.
An animal study found that long-term supplementation of shilajit is safe and may provide the body with additional iron. Researchers observed no adverse side effects and suggest it may be helpful for those experiencing anemia and iron deficiency.
These effects resulting from shilajit’s mineral-rich properties are also thought to promote healthy hair growth.
3. May Reduce Reproductive & Menopausal Issues
Reproductive and menopausal issues come in a wide array of symptoms, like painful cramps, irregular menstruation, hot flashes, low bone density, and mood swings. Shilajit is known to support bone conditions and may be helpful for women experiencing irregular ovulation cycles, making this a beneficial herb for menopause as well.
In a clinical trial observing postmenopausal women with osteopenia (low bone density), researchers discovered that daily shilajit supplementation significantly improved bone mineral density. It also reduced inflammation and harmful damage from oxidative stress that often happens when estrogen levels drop during menopause.
An animal study discovered that 6 weeks of shilajit supplementation encouraged ovulation in 78% of the rats. Researchers suggest this may be helpful for those experiencing irregular ovulation cycles.
4. May Have Anti-Aging Properties & Boost Skin Health
Many women experience hormonal acne as a result of menstruation, menopause, or stress.
Recent research has found that shilajit may increase collagen production and skin microcirculation.
A clinical trial discovered that shilajit supplementation improved collagen synthesis after 8 weeks. Researchers noted that the results were more significant in the high-dose shilajit group (1,000 mg daily).
Another clinical study observing middle-aged women found that daily shilajit supplementation for 14 weeks resulted in increased skin microcirculation. The shilajit supplementation also improved the growth of blood vessels suggesting that shilajit helps improve skin tone and detoxification.
5. Other Shilajit Benefits for Women:
Wound healing: A lab study discovered that an active constituent in purified shilajit, ferulic acid, reduced wound-related inflammation. This suggests that shilajit may speed up wound recovery by inhibiting the inflammatory response.
Muscle Strength: Researchers discovered that shilajit (PrimaVie®) supplementation over 8 weeks reduced fatigue-related muscle weakness. The study found that the shilajit helps encourage retention of muscle strength, suggesting it may be helpful for women experiencing fatigue symptoms.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit resin is a tar-like natural substance created by the decomposition of plants. This black substance can be found high in the Himalayan mountains seeping from the rocks.
Shilajit is revered for its rich phytochemical and nutrient content. It contains more than 84 minerals like copper, zinc, iron, and silver.
The resin has been used in Ayurveda for centuries and is considered a Rasayna herb, which is an herb that rejuvenates the body and slows aging.
Some of shilajit’s beneficial health-boosting compounds include humic acid, fulvic acid, phenolic glucosides, and amino acids. These phytochemicals are known to have antioxidant, adaptogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
How Shilajit Works in the Body:
Shilajit’s active constituents (like fulvic acid) and mineral composition (in their ionic forms) support the transportation of minerals to cells. These phytochemicals and minerals encourage cellular balance and reduce the rate of cellular death.
These constituents also support a healthy immune system, increase detoxification, and enhance the body’s absorption capacity.
Shilajit Dosage:
Capsules: 300-500 mg, 2x/day
Shilajit is often mixed with other substances like milk, honey, or triphala, depending on intended use.
Paste: 1x/day
Take a pea-sized ball and swallow like a pill.
It’s important to consider the timing of shilajit consumption as it is slow to metabolize in the body (12-14 hours after administration).
Ensuring that you’re taking a safe and effective dosage of shilajit is oftentimes easier when taking a high quality shilajit supplement; Click here to learn more about our top recommended shilajit dietary and gummy supplements.
Is Shilajit Safe?
High-quality shilajit is generally well-tolerated and considered safe when taken orally. Given its history of use in modern research and use as one of the most beneficial ayurvedic herbs, there is evidence that shilajit is safe for long-term use.
Processing shilajit is extensive and requires a 6-step filtration process. It’s essential to source shilajit from a reputable source as unprocessed shilajit can be contaminated with potentially toxic fungi.
Since shilajit contains substantial levels of uric acid, people with gout, gouty arthritis, or uric acid calculi (small uric acid kidney stones) should avoid supplementing with shilajit.
Click here for a full safety profile of the herb shilajit.
Is Shilajit Safe During Pregnancy & Lactation?
Due to the lack of data on the safety and efficacy of shilajit in pregnant or lactating women, supplementation should be avoided.
Conclusion:
Shilajit is a highly beneficial plant-based substance that can support women in numerous ways. Supplementing with shilajit helps reduce menopause symptoms, increase energy levels, and support skin health.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before including shilajit in your daily regimen.
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