Shilajit: The Black Treasure of the Himalayas - Origins, Benefits and Uses

May 28, 2025

Shilajit: An ancient gift from the mountains for your well-being

Deep in the majestic Himalayan mountains lies one of the best-kept secrets of traditional medicine: Shilajit. This dark brown to black resinous substance, often nicknamed "mountain sweat," has been revered for millennia for its exceptional therapeutic properties. Long reserved for Ayurveda practitioners and local high-altitude populations, Shilajit is now experiencing a resurgence of global interest, bolstered by modern scientific research that is gradually confirming its many benefits.

In this article, we invite you to discover this fascinating natural treasure: its unique geological origin, its exceptionally rich composition, its documented health benefits, and how to wisely integrate it into your wellness routine.

The origins of Shilajit: a thousand-year-old process

Shilajit is not just any mineral or ordinary plant. Its formation represents one of the most remarkable and slowest natural processes on our planet.

A natural alchemy

Shilajit is formed over extremely long periods of time, usually several centuries, through a complex process:

Plant material (mainly medicinal plants and lichens) is trapped in rock layers during mountain formation
Under the effect of geological pressure and extreme altitude conditions, these organic materials undergo slow decomposition and transformation.
Repeated cycles of freezing and thawing, combined with the action of microorganisms, gradually transform this material into a concentrated resin
During the warm season, this substance oozes from cracks in rocks in the form of viscous resin

This unique process explains why Shilajit is mainly found in high altitude mountain ranges like the Himalayas, Altai, Caucasus and Andes.

The different qualities of Shilajit

According to Ayurvedic tradition, there are four types of Shilajit, each associated with a specific color and properties:

Golden Shilajit (Svarna) : The rarest and most powerful, associated with gold
Silver Shilajit (Rajat) : Associated with silver, particularly beneficial for meditation and mental clarity
Copper Shilajit (Tamra) : Associated with copper, known for its effects on vitality
Black Shilajit (Lauha) : Most common, associated with iron, used for strength and endurance

Black Shilajit is the most commonly found on the international market, although its quality can vary considerably depending on the source and purification methods.

Composition and active ingredients: a nutritional concentrate

What makes Shilajit truly exceptional is its extraordinarily rich biochemical composition:

A wealth of essential nutrients

Fulvic Acid : Main component (60-80%) and responsible for many benefits, it improves nutrient absorption and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
Minerals : Over 84 minerals in easily assimilated ionic form, including magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc, and iron
Amino Acids : Contains 18 of the 20 essential amino acids
Humic Acids : Powerful Antioxidants and Detoxifiers
Dibenzo-alpha-pyrones : Energy-boosting compounds that support cellular ATP production

A unique profile of trace elements

Shilajit also contains traces of precious metals and rare trace elements such as molybdenum, selenium, and strontium, in naturally balanced and bioavailable proportions. This composition reflects the mineral richness of the mountain ecosystems where it is formed.

The benefits of Shilajit validated by modern science

Long considered a “rasayana” (rejuvenating agent) in Ayurveda, Shilajit is now the subject of scientific research that confirms many of its traditional uses:

Energy boost and physical performance

Mitochondrial stimulation : Improves cellular energy production (ATP) thanks to dibenzo-alpha-pyrones
Improved nutrient transport : Fulvic acid facilitates the absorption of minerals essential for energy production
Increased Testosterone : Studies have shown a significant increase in testosterone levels in men, improving strength and endurance
Muscle Recovery : Reduces inflammation and accelerates tissue repair after exercise

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated a 29% improvement in physical performance in athletes after 8 weeks of Shilajit supplementation.

Cognitive and neurological support

Neuronal Protection : Shilajit's antioxidants protect brain cells against oxidative stress
Memory Improvement : Animal model studies show improved cognitive function and memory
Anti-Alzheimer's Potential : Shilajit May Inhibit Protein Aggregation Involved in Alzheimer's Disease
Emotional Balance : Adaptogenic effects that help manage stress and anxiety

Immune boosting and anti-aging

Powerful antioxidant : Fights free radicals responsible for cellular aging
Immune stimulation : Increases the activity of macrophages and lymphocytes
Anti-inflammatory properties : Reduces systemic inflammatory markers
Detoxification : Helps eliminate heavy metals and toxins thanks to fulvic acid

Hormonal and reproductive health

Hormonal Balance : Supports balanced hormone production in men and women
Male Fertility : Improves sperm quality and motility
Menopause symptoms : May alleviate some symptoms due to its adaptogenic action
Libido : Traditionally used as a natural aphrodisiac

How to Incorporate Shilajit into Your Wellness Routine

To benefit from the exceptional properties of Shilajit, here are some practical tips:

Forms and dosages

Shilajit resin

The most traditional and powerful form:

Recommended Dosage : One serving the size of a grain of rice (approximately 300-500mg), 1-2 times daily
Use : Dissolve in a hot drink (water, vegetable milk, tea)
Taste : Bitter and earthy, can be mixed with honey for added palatability

Shilajit powder

Recommended dosage : 300-500mg per day
Use : Can be added to smoothies, juices or hot drinks
Advantage : Easier to dose precisely

Shilajit capsules

Recommended Dosage : Follow manufacturer's directions, usually 1-2 capsules per day
Use : Convenient for travel and to avoid the characteristic taste
Advantage : Convenience and lack of taste

Ideal time to take

On an empty stomach in the morning : To maximize absorption and benefit from the energizing effect throughout the day
Pre-workout : 30-60 minutes before exercise to improve performance
In the evening : At a lower dose, can promote nighttime recovery

Synergies with other wellness practices

Shilajit can be integrated into a holistic approach to wellness:

Combination with massage

In some Ayurvedic traditions, Shilajit is used in combination with massage oils to:

Improve the penetration of active ingredients
Target painful or inflamed areas
Strengthen the detoxifying effect of massage

Synergy with other adaptogenic plants

Shilajit works particularly well with:

Ashwagandha : For a reinforced adaptogenic effect
Ginseng : For balanced energy stimulation
Rhodiola : To improve cognitive and physical performance

Integrating into a meditation routine

Traditionally used by Himalayan yogis for:

Improve focus and mental clarity
Deepen meditative states
Supporting intensive spiritual practices

Important Precautions and Considerations

Despite its many benefits, Shilajit requires certain precautions for use:

Quality and authenticity

With the market flooded with products of varying quality, it is essential to:

Choose a Shilajit purified using traditional methods
Check for laboratory analyses (heavy metals, contaminants)
Favor authentic Himalayan sources
Avoid products containing additives or diluents

Contraindications

Shilajit is not suitable for everyone. Avoid using it if you have:

Hemochromatosis or iron overload disorders
Gout or high uric acid levels
Pregnancy and breastfeeding (due to lack of studies)
Taking blood thinning medications

Potential side effects

Although generally well tolerated, some people may experience:

Mild digestive problems during the first uses
Transient headaches
Dizziness if taken in too high a dose
Insomnia if consumed late in the day

It is recommended to start with small doses and increase gradually.

Shilajit at Massage Bien-Être Relax Pro

At Massage Bien-Être Relax Pro, we have carefully selected a range of the highest quality Shilajit products to complement our massage and wellness services:

Our approach

Careful selection of authentic Himalayan Shilajit
Purity and authenticity analyses for each batch
Traditional purification methods respecting Ayurvedic principles
Personalized advice for optimal use

Our products

Shilajit Premium Resin : The purest and most concentrated form
Standardized Shilajit Capsules : For convenient everyday use
Shilajit Massage Oil : Exclusive formula to target painful areas
Shilajit+ Energy Complex : Synergy with other adaptogens for optimal vitality

Integration into our care

We also offer massage protocols incorporating the benefits of Shilajit:

Revitalizing Shilajit Massage : Combination of infused oils and energizing techniques
Himalaya Detox Treatment : Complete protocol combining massage, Shilajit and detoxification techniques
Vitality Ritual : Holistic experience to restore energy balance

Please contact us to find out how Shilajit can be integrated into your wellness journey and amplify the benefits of our massage treatments.