Shilajit Glossary
Shilajit Glossary: A to Z of Terms, Health Concepts & Origins
This glossary provides clear, concise definitions of the most important terms related to shilajit. It covers health benefits, botanical properties, origins, traditional medicine terms, and modern usage. Perfect for beginners, researchers, and curious minds.
A
- Acne
- Shilajit’s minerals and anti-inflammatory effects may support clearer skin and reduce breakouts.
- Adaptogen
- Natural compounds that help the body adapt to stress. Shilajit is considered a potent adaptogen.
- Alkalinity
- Shilajit may help balance pH levels in the body through its trace minerals.
- Altitude Sickness
- Used in traditional medicine to combat fatigue and low oxygen at high elevations.
- Alzheimer's Disease
- Shilajit is being studied for potential support in cognitive decline and memory loss.
- Amino Acids
- Building blocks of protein; some naturally occur in raw shilajit resin.
- Antibacterial
- Shilajit exhibits mild antibacterial properties in traditional applications.
- Antioxidant
- Neutralizes harmful free radicals. Shilajit is rich in antioxidants, including fulvic acid.
- Ayurveda
- Ancient Indian medicine system where shilajit is classified as a rejuvenating tonic (rasayana).
- Arthritis
- Some users take shilajit to ease joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
B
- B-complex Vitamins
- Essential for energy metabolism; may be supported by trace compounds in shilajit.
- Bacteria
- Shilajit is traditionally used to support microbial balance in the gut.
- Bipolar Disorder
- Preliminary research explores whether shilajit may assist in mood regulation.
- Bioavailability
- Shilajit resin has high absorption and effectiveness when taken orally.
- Bhishaj
- A Sanskrit term meaning physician; referenced in Ayurvedic texts discussing shilajit.
- Brain Fog
- Shilajit is taken to improve clarity, focus, and reduce cognitive sluggishness.
- Blood Pressure
- Shilajit may influence blood pressure due to its effect on circulation and minerals.
- Bone Density
- Minerals in shilajit, such as calcium and magnesium, support bone health.
- Boron
- A trace mineral often found in shilajit; supports joint health and hormone function.
- Burnout
- Used by some to recover from physical and mental exhaustion caused by stress.
C
- Calcium
- A bone-supporting mineral found naturally in shilajit.
- Cardiovascular Health
- Shilajit may support heart function through improved circulation and antioxidant effects.
- Cellular Energy
- Shilajit enhances ATP production, fueling energy at the cellular level.
- Cholesterol
- Shilajit may help regulate healthy lipid levels and reduce bad cholesterol.
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- A condition linked to mitochondrial dysfunction; shilajit may offer supportive relief.
- Circulation
- Shilajit may improve blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body.
- Collagen
- Supports skin and joint elasticity; may be indirectly boosted by minerals in shilajit.
- Copper
- A trace mineral found in shilajit important for blood and connective tissue health.
- Cognitive Function
- Shilajit may enhance memory, focus, and mental clarity.
- Constipation
- Traditional use suggests shilajit may aid digestion and bowel regularity.
D
- Diabetes
- Shilajit may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Detoxification
- Shilajit supports natural detox processes by binding to and removing toxins.
- Dose
- Common dosage is 100–300mg daily; typically dissolved in warm water.
- Digestion
- Shilajit may support gut health and promote regularity.
- Dopamine
- A neurotransmitter involved in mood and motivation. Shilajit may help balance its production.
- DNA Protection
- Antioxidants in shilajit may protect cellular DNA from oxidative stress.
- Deficiency
- Shilajit helps replenish mineral deficiencies such as iron, zinc, and magnesium.
- Dysthymia
- A form of chronic depression; shilajit may offer mood-stabilizing benefits.
- Dissolution
- Shilajit must be dissolved in warm liquid before ingestion for best absorption.
- Dry Mouth
- Shilajit may support hydration and salivation in individuals experiencing xerostomia.
E
- Eczema
- Shilajit’s anti-inflammatory minerals may soothe eczema symptoms.
- Electrolytes
- Shilajit contains minerals that help regulate hydration and nerve function.
- Endurance
- Used by athletes to support physical stamina and performance.
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Shilajit may aid hormone balance and blood circulation.
- Energy
- One of the top-reported benefits of shilajit, both mental and physical.
- Enzymes
- Shilajit supports metabolic enzyme activity through its mineral content.
- Environmental Stressors
- Shilajit may help the body respond to pollutants and oxidative stress.
- Essential Nutrients
- Shilajit contains trace elements vital for biological function.
- Exercise
- Regular users claim improved recovery and reduced fatigue from workouts.
- Excretion
- Supports detox by aiding natural waste elimination pathways.
F
- Fulvic Acid
- Main bioactive in shilajit; aids nutrient absorption and cell function.
- Fatigue
- Shilajit is traditionally used to combat both physical and mental fatigue.
- Ferrum (Iron)
- Essential for red blood cells. Present in trace amounts in shilajit.
- Free Radicals
- Shilajit helps neutralize free radicals via antioxidant activity.
- Fructose
- Some mineral-rich compounds in shilajit may affect sugar metabolism.
- Fertility
- Shilajit may improve sperm count and reproductive health.
- Folic Acid
- Although not in large quantities, fulvic acid may complement folic acid pathways.
- Fermentation
- Part of the organic decomposition that creates shilajit in nature.
- Flow State
- Some users report cognitive clarity and mood that enhances productivity.
- Flexibility
- Used by yogis and athletes to support joint and muscle pliability.
G
- Gilgit-Baltistan
- Region in Pakistan known for rich Himalayan shilajit deposits.
- Gut Health
- Shilajit supports gut flora and digestive function.
- Glucose Regulation
- May support healthy blood sugar levels when used regularly.
- Grounding
- Shilajit is considered energetically stabilizing in traditional medicine.
- Ginger
- Commonly combined with shilajit in Ayurvedic medicine for synergistic effects.
- Growth Factors
- Shilajit may influence cellular regeneration and repair pathways.
- Geological Origin
- Shilajit forms through long-term plant decay in mountainous rock layers.
- Ghee
- Clarified butter used in traditional formulations containing shilajit.
- Gout
- Some alternative practices suggest shilajit may ease uric acid buildup.
- Glutathione
- A master antioxidant that may be indirectly supported by shilajit’s effects.
H
- Himalayas
- Mountain range where high-quality shilajit is harvested.
- Humic Substances
- Organic compounds in shilajit including humic and fulvic acids.
- Heavy Metals
- Lab testing ensures shilajit is free from harmful metal contamination.
- Hydration
- Minerals in shilajit may support fluid balance and cellular hydration.
- Hormonal Balance
- Shilajit may support natural hormone levels in both men and women.
- Heart Rate
- Part of vital sign monitoring; shilajit may aid cardiac efficiency.
- Heat Tolerance
- Used to support endurance and recovery in hot climates or workouts.
- Hair Health
- Minerals in shilajit may strengthen hair growth and reduce shedding.
- Healing
- Shilajit has been used traditionally to accelerate wound recovery.
- Homeostasis
- Helps maintain physiological balance across body systems.
I
- India
- One of the main regions where high-quality shilajit is sourced.
- Immunity
- Shilajit is used in traditional medicine to support immune system function.
- Inflammation
- Shilajit’s antioxidants may help reduce systemic inflammation.
- Iron
- Shilajit contains this vital mineral, essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
- Infertility
- Studies suggest shilajit may support male reproductive health and fertility.
- Iodine
- A trace mineral that supports thyroid function; sometimes found in shilajit.
- Insulin Sensitivity
- Shilajit may help the body respond more effectively to insulin.
- Intestinal Health
- Traditional uses include digestive support and regularity.
- Integrative Medicine
- Shilajit is often included in holistic approaches combining Eastern and Western therapies.
- Intelligence
- Ayurvedic texts claim shilajit enhances intellect and cognitive clarity.
J
- Joint Health
- Shilajit is sometimes taken to support joint comfort and mobility.
- Jaggery
- A natural sweetener sometimes used alongside shilajit in traditional preparations.
- Jiva
- An Ayurvedic term for life force or soul, which shilajit is believed to nourish.
- Junctional Complex
- Cell structures that may be stabilized by shilajit’s trace minerals.
- Juvenility
- Ayurvedic concept linked to preserving youth; supported by rasayanas like shilajit.
- Joints
- Shilajit supports lubrication and flexibility in joint tissues.
- Journaling
- Used by wellness communities alongside shilajit for mental clarity tracking.
- Jagruti
- Sanskrit for “awakening”; shilajit is said to awaken bodily intelligence.
- Jeera
- Cumin, often used with shilajit in Ayurvedic blends for digestion.
- Jet Lag
- Used by some travelers to reduce fatigue and restore rhythm after flights.
K
- Kidney Support
- In traditional use, shilajit is sometimes said to support kidney health.
- Kapha
- One of the three Ayurvedic doshas (body types). Shilajit may balance excess Kapha.
- Kalpa
- In Ayurveda, a treatment method; shilajit is part of many kalpa therapies.
- Ketones
- Shilajit may support fat metabolism and ketone production during fasting.
- Khareek
- Dry dates often combined with shilajit in traditional tonics for energy.
- Kansas Shilajit
- Commercial term for mineral pitch found in the U.S.; not the same as Himalayan shilajit.
- Kaishore Guggulu
- Ayurvedic formula sometimes used with shilajit for detoxification.
- Krimi
- Ayurvedic term for parasites; shilajit is sometimes used to cleanse internal toxins.
- Krishna
- A mythological figure in Vedic stories sometimes associated with herbs and vitality.
- Koormasana
- Tortoise yoga pose; practitioners may use shilajit to aid flexibility and breath control.
L
- Liver Function
- Shilajit may help support healthy liver enzymes and detoxification processes.
- Longevity
- Shilajit is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a rasayana to promote long life.
- Lactic Acid
- Shilajit may aid in reducing lactic acid buildup, helping recovery after exercise.
M
- Mitochondria
- The energy-producing organelles in cells. Shilajit supports their function.
- Magnesium
- A mineral in shilajit involved in muscle, nerve, and immune system health.
- Memory
- Some research suggests shilajit may improve cognitive performance and memory.
- Minerals
- Shilajit contains over 80 minerals essential for biological function and energy.
- Manganese
- A trace element in shilajit, supporting enzyme systems and antioxidant defense.
- Men’s Health
- Commonly used to support testosterone, stamina, and reproductive function.
- Mood
- Shilajit may help regulate mood by supporting neurotransmitter balance.
- Metal Detox
- Shilajit may aid in chelating and excreting heavy metals from the body.
- Muscle Recovery
- Used by athletes to reduce soreness and improve recovery time post-exercise.
- Melanin
- Fulvic acid in shilajit may influence melanin activity related to skin protection.
N
- Nepal
- A major source of authentic Himalayan shilajit.
- Nervous System
- Shilajit supports nerve function and helps protect against oxidative damage.
- Natural Resin
- The raw, sticky form of shilajit, considered the most potent form for health benefits.
- Nickel
- Trace metal found in shilajit that may play a role in enzyme activity.
- Nutrients
- Shilajit is rich in essential and trace nutrients vital to health.
- Neuroprotection
- Shilajit may defend the brain against stress and age-related decline.
- Nadi
- An Ayurvedic concept of energy channels in the body, supported by rasayanas like shilajit.
- Naturopathy
- Shilajit is widely used in naturopathic practices as a revitalizing tonic.
- Neurotransmitters
- Shilajit may influence brain chemicals that regulate mood and cognition.
- Nasal Congestion
- In traditional systems, shilajit was occasionally used to support respiratory clarity.
O
- Oxidative Stress
- Damage caused by free radicals. Shilajit helps reduce oxidative stress.
- Organic Compounds
- Shilajit is rich in naturally occurring organic matter, including fulvic and humic acids.
- Oral Consumption
- The most common method of taking shilajit is orally, dissolved in warm liquid.
- Oxygen Utilization
- Shilajit may enhance the body's use of oxygen, especially in high-altitude environments.
- Osteoarthritis
- Shilajit may reduce joint inflammation and improve mobility in osteoarthritis cases.
- Organ Support
- Shilajit nourishes tissues and is believed to support the liver, kidneys, and heart.
- Optimal Health
- Shilajit is used to maintain balance and vitality across major body systems.
- Oxides
- Natural compounds in shilajit may contain or influence mineral oxides.
- Ojas
- In Ayurveda, the essence of life and vitality that shilajit is said to enhance.
- Oral Bioavailability
- Shilajit has high absorption when consumed, making it efficient for systemic effects.
P
- Potency
- The strength and purity of shilajit, often linked to its fulvic acid concentration.
- Pakistan
- Home to regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, where high-quality shilajit is harvested.
- Purity
- Refers to the cleanliness and lack of contaminants in shilajit resin.
- Potassium
- Helps regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions; found in shilajit.
- Phytonutrients
- Plant-based compounds occasionally found in trace amounts in shilajit samples.
- Physical Exercise
- Many users report improved stamina, endurance, and recovery with shilajit use.
- Performance
- Shilajit is used by athletes and active individuals for enhanced physical output.
- Pathogens
- Shilajit’s compounds may exhibit mild antimicrobial activity in lab studies.
- Phosphorus
- An essential mineral sometimes present in trace levels in raw shilajit.
- Psychological Health
- Shilajit may support mental wellness through mood regulation and neuroprotection.
Q
- Quality Assurance
- Lab testing ensures shilajit is pure, potent, and free from contaminants.
- Quercetin
- Antioxidant flavonoid sometimes found in trace amounts in raw shilajit.
- Quintessence
- Shilajit is known as the essence of the mountains in ancient medicinal texts.
- Quick Recovery
- Shilajit may shorten recovery time after physical or mental exertion.
- Quantum Healing
- Holistic belief that shilajit supports the body's energetic healing potential.
- Quiescence
- A calm, restful state that shilajit may promote via nervous system regulation.
- Quotidian Use
- Shilajit is safe for daily use in moderate doses for vitality and balance.
- Quinine
- Although not found in shilajit, both share a history of use in mountain medicine.
- Quartz
- Mineral-rich Himalayan zones producing shilajit often contain quartz formations.
- Quality Control
- Standardized practices ensure safe harvesting, filtering, and packaging of shilajit.
R
- Resin
- The sticky, tar-like form in which raw shilajit is typically consumed.
- Rasayana
- In Ayurveda, a category of rejuvenating substances. Shilajit is a key rasayana.
- Rejuvenation
- Shilajit is widely used to revitalize the mind and body in traditional medicine.
- Respiratory Rate
- Vital sign that shilajit may indirectly support via mitochondrial energy balance.
- Red Blood Cells
- Shilajit’s iron content supports healthy hemoglobin and oxygen transport.
- Radioprotection
- Early research suggests shilajit may offer cellular defense against radiation.
- Root Tonic
- Traditional term for grounding, earthy substances like shilajit used for strength.
- Rakta Dhatu
- In Ayurveda, the blood tissue layer. Shilajit nourishes and purifies it.
- Relaxation
- Many users report stress relief and emotional calm from consistent use.
- Rheumatism
- Used historically to relieve joint pain and swelling from inflammatory disorders.
S
- Sanskrit
- The classical language of Ayurveda, where shilajit is referenced in ancient texts.
- Strength
- Shilajit is widely used to improve muscular strength and stamina.
- Selenium
- Trace mineral in shilajit that supports thyroid and immune health.
- Sulfur
- Important for detoxification; small amounts may be present in shilajit.
- Stress Adaptation
- Shilajit’s adaptogenic properties help the body respond to physical and emotional stress.
- Sleep
- Shilajit may improve sleep quality by regulating energy and mood.
- Skin Health
- Its minerals may support skin regeneration and reduce inflammation.
- Serotonin
- A neurotransmitter that shilajit may influence for mood stabilization.
- Sexual Health
- Traditionally used to enhance libido and reproductive function in both men and women.
- Shilajit UK
- The UK’s trusted provider of pure Himalayan shilajit, tested and verified.
T
- Testosterone
- Shilajit may naturally enhance testosterone levels, particularly in aging males.
- Trace Minerals
- Shilajit contains dozens of essential micronutrients in trace amounts.
- Tonic
- Classified in Ayurveda as a tonic that rejuvenates body and mind.
- Thermoregulation
- Shilajit may help the body adapt to temperature stress during exercise or altitude.
- Tibetan Medicine
- Shilajit is used in both Indian and Tibetan healing systems for vitality and strength.
- Triglycerides
- Shilajit may help regulate lipid levels, including cholesterol and triglycerides.
- Tissue Regeneration
- Shilajit supports healing and cellular regeneration through mineral activity.
- Tamas
- In Ayurveda, inertia or heaviness; shilajit is said to reduce tamasic states.
- Travel Fatigue
- Used by travelers to fight exhaustion and boost energy during long journeys.
- Tibetan Plateau
- Region where high-altitude shilajit is also naturally found.
U
- Uttarakhand
- A Himalayan region in India known for authentic shilajit sourcing.
- Urinary Tract
- Shilajit is traditionally believed to support urinary tract function.
- Ulcers
- Some traditional systems suggest shilajit may soothe gastric issues when used appropriately.
V
- Vata
- One of the three Ayurvedic doshas. Shilajit may help pacify Vata imbalances.
- Vitality
- Shilajit is used to boost vitality, endurance, and overall life force.
- Vegan-Friendly
- Pure shilajit is mineral-based and contains no animal products.
W
- Water Solubility
- Shilajit resin dissolves fully in warm water — a key sign of authenticity.
- Wellbeing
- Shilajit is used to support mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing.
- Weight Management
- Shilajit may support metabolism and energy balance, aiding in healthy weight.
X
- Xenoestrogens
- Environmental toxins that mimic estrogen; shilajit may help protect against hormonal imbalance.
- X-factor
- Slang for the mysterious vitality-boosting quality users attribute to shilajit.
- Xerostomia
- Dry mouth; anecdotal reports suggest shilajit may increase saliva and hydration.
Y
- Yoga
- Many practitioners use shilajit to enhance focus and endurance in yoga practice.
- Yogavahi
- An Ayurvedic term meaning a carrier or enhancer of other herbs. Shilajit acts as a yogavahi.
- Yin-Yang Balance
- In alternative medicine, shilajit is thought to support energy balance and dualities in the body.
Z
- Zinc
- Shilajit contains zinc, a mineral important for immunity and hormone balance.
- Zen
- Users often associate the calm energy of shilajit with a “zen-like” mental state.
- Zest
- Shilajit’s effect on mood and vitality gives many users a renewed zest for life.