In recent years, interest in natural remedies and alternative therapies has risen, and one remedy that has gained significant attention is shilajit.
While it offers a wide range of benefits for both men and women, this article will focus specifically on the benefits for women.
We will explore the incredible shilajit benefits for women while shedding light on the side effects that should be considered.
Key Takeaways
- Shilajit offers many benefits for women, such as improving fertility, bone health, reducing stress, supporting menstrual health, and especially aiding in weight loss.
- Women using Shilajit should be aware of potential side effects and drug interactions.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution when using Shilajit due to a lack of conclusive research.
Can Women Take Shilajit?
There is no explicit evidence suggesting that shilajit is harmful to women. Shilajit is primarily composed of minerals, fulvic acid, and various organic compounds, and it is often used as a dietary supplement. It is safe for both men and women.
Shilajit has a long history of traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine and is popular worldwide for its benefits, especially for women.
Nowadays, like men, women might be drawn to shilajit for its potential adaptogenic properties, which are believed to help the body adapt to stressors and promote overall well-being.
As with any supplement, women considering shilajit are advised to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into their routine, especially during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
However, it is essential to delve into the nuances concerning women's health.
14 Shilajit Benefits for Women
Fertility In Female
Shilajit plays a role in hormonal regulation, potentially enhancing fertility and increasing libido. Its adaptogenic properties help regulate hormonal balance in both men and women.
Studies on rats show that Shilajit affects ovulation; seven out of nine female rats in the Shilajit group ovulated, indicating a notable effect of Shilajit on females [1].
The mineral content, including iron, manganese, and zinc, may contribute to overall reproductive health.
Improve Bone Health
Shilajit extract reduces oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss by preserving bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.
Shilajit can help postmenopausal women who have an increased risk for osteoporosis and fragility fractures enhance bone health [14].
Reduce Stress and Depression
Shilajit is praised for its adaptogenic properties, traditionally associated with stress reduction and mental well-being. As an adaptogen, it helps the body adapt to stressors, potentially modulating the stress response and promoting resilience.
Some proponents suggest that shilajit has anti-anxiety effects and could contribute to managing feelings of stress [3].
Immunity
Research shows the effect of a Shilajit-enriched diet on immunity, antioxidants, and disease resistance. Antioxidants and disease resistance yield positive results in animals [3]. It is partly proven that Shilajit helps boost the body's immune response and fight infections, contributing to Shilajit benefits for females.
Arthritis
Shilajit extract was also evaluated for its anti-arthritic properties. It was shown to exhibit antiulcerogenic and anti-inflammatory activity.
In some studies on rats, Shilajit administration decreased carrageenan-induced acute pedal edema, granuloma pouch, and adjuvant-induced arthritis, indicating significant anti-inflammatory activity [1].
Boosting Energy
Shilajit is commonly recognized for its natural energy-enhancing properties, as it is believed to increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in the body—a molecule essential for transferring cellular energy.
Certain studies suggest that shilajit may positively impact ATP production, improving the efficiency of cellular energy utilization.
Moreover, shilajit is thought to aid in delivering oxygen to cells, thereby playing a role in elevating energy levels [4].
Related Article: Is Shilajit Good For Muscle Building? A Scientific Perspective
Improve Alzheimer's Disease
Shilajit possesses antioxidant properties. Oxidative stress, resulting from an imbalance between antioxidants and harmful free radicals, is implicated in the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Antioxidants may help mitigate oxidative damage in the brain. Its main components' potential uses are based on the properties of fulvic acid, known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and memory-enhancing properties.
New studies indicate that fulvic acid could be a potential anti-Alzheimer's molecule [5].
Anti-Aging (Hair and Skin)
Many women seek out Shilajit for its potential anti-aging effects on the skin and hair.
Fulvic acid transports minerals from Shilajit to cells and tissues, preserving the electric potential of body cells. This action may inhibit cell death, promote longevity, and serve as a rejuvenating agent [5].
Some studies suggest that shilajit stimulates collagen synthesis, supports skin elasticity, and potentially diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, benefiting women's beauty [6].
In hair care, shilajit promotes hair growth by stimulating hair and promoting a healthier scalp environment.
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Good for Heart Health
The benefits of Shilajit for women include improved heart health. Shilajit has prominent protective effects against acute myocardial injuries.
It increases cardiac muscle oxygen supply, stabilizes microvessels, attenuates inflammation, and protects heart tissue [7].
May Reduce Altitude Sickness
Shilajit is thought to enhance the body's ability to utilize oxygen efficiently. This is particularly relevant at high altitudes where oxygen levels are lower.
Improved oxygen utilization may help mitigate some of the symptoms associated with altitude sickness [8].
May Benefit the Menstrual Cycle
Hormonal balance is crucial for the regularity and overall health of the menstrual cycle, and the adaptogenic nature of shilajit is theorized to support the body in adapting to hormonal fluctuations.
Moreover, shilajit is often associated with helping menstrual discomfort and symptoms [9].
Women experiencing menstrual pain, cramping, and other discomforts may find relief in the potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects attributed to shilajit.
Anemia and Iron Deficiency
Women are more susceptible to iron deficiency due to factors such as menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
Shilajit mainly contains a lot of iron, which is very important for the human body because it plays an essential role in synthesizing hemoglobin [10]. If there's not enough iron, it can cause anemia.
Effective Detox
Shilajit is a good detoxifier, helping to eliminate toxins from the body, and its regular use stops the production of toxins. Additionally, it enhances the absorptive and detoxifying capacity of the body by metabolism and promotes energy production [8].
Support Weight Loss
Some studies suggest that shilajit may have a positive impact on metabolism. A faster metabolism is often associated with burning calories more efficiently, potentially contributing to weight loss [11]. Shilajit may be a good choice for women who want to lose weight.
Shilajit Side Effects for Females
Though Shilajit has no harmful effects on vital organs of the body [12] and is commonly regarded as safe for people, including women, some side effects can differ among individuals.
Here are some considerations related to possible shilajit side effects for females:
Interactions with Medications
Shilajit may interact with medications like glibenclamide or metformin. It is believed to influence blood glucose levels, and when taken alongside antidiabetic medicines, it may enhance their effects [13].
This interaction could lead to a risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), especially if not carefully monitored.
Iron Levels
Shilajit contains minerals, and excessive intake of certain minerals may affect iron absorption [3].
While only a few individuals may have this problem, shilajit is still considered safe for extended use.
How Can Women Take Shilajit?
Taking Shilajit correctly and appropriately is important to avoid any side effects. Some sources suggest that the best way to take Shilajit is to mix it with a beverage, such as milk or water.
The recommended dosage of Shilajit varies depending on the purpose of use and each user's body, but the recommended dose for maintaining optimal health is 300-500 mg/day [8].
It is advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed. Shilajit can be taken in the morning or before a workout for optimal results.
Shilajit is not recommended for pregnant women since there is not enough evidence to prove its safety and effectiveness during pregnancy. It is better to avoid shilajit or any other herbal supplement unless advised by a doctor.
If you are looking for natural ways to support your health during pregnancy, consider taking prenatal vitamins, iron supplements, and probiotics.
These supplements may provide essential nutrients and benefits for you and your baby.
Shilajit is a powerful and ancient remedy that can help improve the well-being of women in many ways. However, it is important to use it with caution and care and to follow the instructions and guidelines of a qualified health professional.
Conclusion
Shilajit is a natural and potent substance that has been used for centuries to improve overall health and well-being. Shilajit offers numerous benefits for women, from enhancing skin and hair health to potentially reducing menstrual discomfort and supporting hormonal balance. With the correct dosage and usage, shilajit can be an excellent addition to any woman's health and wellness routine. It is worth exploring this ancient remedy for its potential benefits.
