Ayurveda is a wellness practice that originated in India centuries ago. It’s known for its holistic approach to treating the body, mind, and spirit through natural remedies. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These methods continue to be popular today\u2014and there are many Ayruvedic practices<\/a> and herbal medicines that can potentially benefit sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One that’s on-trend right now is shilajit, a sticky black substance found in Himalayan rocks. But what does shilajit do? What are the benefits of shilajit? Ahead, we\u2019ll explore the sleep benefits of shilajit and how to add it to your routine for the best results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Calling shilajit a \u201cunique substance,\u201d Maz Roginski<\/a>, doctor of Chinese medicine, says it\u2019s a combination of plant, animal, and mineral materials that seeps from rocks in the high mountains of central Asia during the warmer months. It has a tar-like appearance and deep, earthy scent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine, also appears in Tibetan, Chinese, and Russian medicine, and has been considered a tonic for the whole body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shilajit is rich in antioxidants\u2014especially fulvic acid\u2014and a host of trace minerals (like iron, magnesium, selenium, copper, and zinc) which support the functions of several body systems, explains Roginski. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, what is shilajit good for? When it comes to shilajit benefits, research indicates this substance supports mitochondrial function and energy production<\/a>, \u201cso it can boost energy and ease chronic fatigue,\u201d says Roginski.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since shilajit is such a powerhouse of\u00a0antioxidants<\/a>, Roginski says it can ease inflammation and support the repair of cells and tissues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Antioxidants protect against free radicals (which can cause cellular damage), and as Roginski notes, mitigating cellular damage is a key component in slowing the aging process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe antioxidant capacity of shilajit can also support heart health, regulate cholesterol, and boost circulation,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFulvic acid<\/a> has also been shown to protect the brain from both damaging protein buildup and inflammation,\u201d says Roginski. \u201cThis is why it\u2019s used to enhance concentration, focus, and memory and as protection against Alzheimer\u2019s disease<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shilajit aids all of the above processes and supports health across many body systems, which can allow us to rest more deeply, says Roginski.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAdditionally, natural medicines encourage us to align more closely with nature\u2019s cycles and healing wisdom,\u201d she says. \u201cShilajit can support our natural circadian rhythms (and our sleep-wake cycle) as it contains magnesium<\/a>\u2014this, in turn, can decrease cortisol<\/a> (stress hormone) and support melatonin<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s important to follow guidance on using shilajit. Always use caution when adding new supplements to your routine and chat with your healthcare provider first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That said, Roginski recommends going slowly and tuning into your body when you start shilajit (and with any new supplement, for that matter). <\/p>\n\n\n\n To find out how to take it specifically for your body, Roginski encourages you to check in with a natural health practitioner and find out if it\u2019s appropriate for you. But she does note that it\u2019s regarded as a safe supplement for many.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In general, shilajit can be consumed through capsules or tablets or dissolved in liquid. Roginski says a dosage can run from 200 to 2,000 milligrams daily, and splitting 500 milligrams across two doses is common.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cTraditional dosage is a rice to pea-sized amount, under the tongue or dissolved in warm water or milk,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Just keep in mind this isn’t for everyone. Per Roginski, research points to several groups who should avoid shilajit: those with sickle cell anemia, hemochromatosis (as it can increase already elevated iron levels), or thalassemia (a blood disorder), and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, since it can lower blood sugar, it can interact with diabetic medications. It\u2019s not recommended for those with concerns about elevating testosterone, either. And it\u2019s typically not recommended for children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since shilajit may be stimulating for some individuals, a morning dosage is usually best, says Roginski. <\/p>\n\n\n\n What is shilajit used for? Roginski lists the potential benefits of taking shilajit, which include boosted energy, high levels of antioxidants, improved brain health, and better sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you may experience some of the health benefits if you take shilajit daily, but Roginski notes efficacy will depend on each individual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cDue to its ability to lower blood sugar and raise iron and testosterone, those with concerns in these areas should consider if it is appropriate for them,\u201d says Roginski. Additionally, those with sickle cell anemia, hemochromatosis, and thalassemia should avoid it, along with those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It\u2019s also not recommended for children.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat is shilajit?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Health and sleep benefits of shilajit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Boosts energy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Provides antioxidants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Betters brain health<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Improves sleep<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to use shilajit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What are the benefits of taking shilajit?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What happens if I take shilajit daily?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Who can’t take shilajit?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n