Abstract

A REVIEW: SHILAJIT A BLESSED EXUDATE

Jyotsana Sharma*

ABSTRACT

Shilajit is a natural substance found mainly in Himalayas, formed by the gradual decomposition of certain plants by the action of microorganisms. It is a very potent and safe dietary supplement that helps to restore the energy level and helps to prevent from several diseases. It even helps to control the cognitive disorders associated with aging and cognitive stimulation. In classical texts, shilajit is mentioned as maharasa or a classified drug. The word Shilajit is composed of two parts “Shila” means rock and “jit” means having won. So literary it means as “Conqueror of mountains”. Shilajit is a sticky exudate from rock layers in high altitude zones of mountains, particularly in the rocks of Himalayas. It is formed due to constant compression of rock layers that leads to slow decomposition of plants. As a result of a high temperature and pressure, the compounds can change into shilajit. The primary compound of shilajit is fulvic acid and that has been used as rejuvenator and adaptogen for thousands of years as a part of traditional system of medicine. Through modern scientific evaluation, it is verified that most of shilajit therapeutic properties are attributed due to presence of various compounds. Through this article, Ayurvedic description, chemical constituents and biological evaluation of shilajit will be highlighted.

Keywords: Shilajit, Fulvic acid, therapeutic property.