An Introduction to Himalayan Shilajit:
Thousands of metres above sea level and guarded by the majestic Himalayan Mountains lies a millennia-old secret to unparalleled health - Shilajit. This prized resin, seeping from the high altitude rocks of these towering peaks, has been lauded for its exceptional healing properties in Ayurvedic medicine. Shilajit, which in ancient Sanskrit translates to "The Conqueror of Mountains and Destroyer of Weakness," is a resinous substance rich in fulvic acid and 85 vital minerals, offering a spectrum of health benefits that modern science is just beginning to understand. From enhancing physical vitality and cognitive functions to fortifying the immune system and promoting longevity, Shilajit benefits are as multifaceted as they are profound.
At Ādisūtrá Śilājīt, we honour the ancient traditions and wisdom of Ayurveda, ensuring that our Śilājīt is harvested and processed with the utmost respect for its natural potency and purity. To fully harness the potential of Shilajit, it’s crucial to understand how to consume it properly.
Unfortunately, in an effort to gain more profits at the expense of their customers' health, many so-called “Shilajit” brands cut their product with honey, ashwagandha or vegetable oils - decreasing the potency to the extent that their Shilajit becomes incomparable vis a vis an Ayurvedically produced alternative.
This article aims to help our customers understand which foods must be avoided within a few hours of taking Shilajit according to Ayurvedic wisdom. However if you are taking Shilajit from another brand that offers Shilajit products mixed with honey or ashwagandha, or if they offer Shilajit in the form of pills, gummines, powders, or any form aside from pure resin - that it is a possible sign that they may be selling false products in the name of “Shilajit”.
1. Honey:
In traditional Ayurvedic practice, it is recommended not to consume honey with Shilajit. Ayurveda suggests that combining honey with Shilajit may neutralise its beneficial properties. Honey's warming effect and Shilajit's potency can counterbalance each other, reducing their individual effectiveness. To ensure Shilajit's full medicinal potential, it's best to take it separately, preserving its powerful qualities and allowing it to work optimally within the body.
You might have seen Shilajit brands that mix honey with their Shilajit - which they claim can change the taste of Shilajit. What is more likely, is that these Shilajit brands want to convince customers that Shilajit has a, unpleasant taste, and then use honey as a filler in order to to reduce the quantity of Shilajit in each product, whilst still covering high prices.
Ayurvedic Himalayan Shilajit does not have a bad taste, and quite the contrary has a very complex and earth flavour profile that can be appreciated in its own right. Furthermore, if you come across Shilajit brands that cut their products with honey it is a clear indicator that these brands not only have little knowledge about the neutralising effect that honey has on Shilajit consumption, but they will also happily put their profits above your health.
2. Red Meat, Chicken and Fish:
It is often advised to avoid consuming meat and fish simultaneously with Shilajit, based on Ayurvedic principles. According to Ayurveda, combining Shilajit with animal proteins may interfere with its absorption and effectiveness.
Proper food combinations are essential in Ayurveda to optimise digestion and enhance nutrient absorption. To fully benefit from Shilajit, it is recommended to refrain from pairing it with meat and fish, ensuring maximum potency and effectiveness.
Although this might seem like a deal breaker for meat lovers; it is important to remember that Shilajit is an energy producing substance, it is advisable to take Shilajit in the morning alongside a light breakfast in order to allow for maximum absorption.
3. Spicy Foods:
In order to understand why eating spicy food within a few hours of consuming Shilajit can diminish its effects - we need to understand one of the key concepts in Ayurveda: Pitta Dosha.
In Ayurveda, Pitta Dosha is one of the three primary doshas (body energies) that govern physiological and psychological functions. Pitta is associated with the elements of fire and water and is responsible for metabolism, digestion, and transformation in the body. Key characteristics of Pitta Dosha include:
Heat and Digestion: Pitta governs the digestive fire (Agni) and metabolic processes. It controls the body's ability to digest food and absorb nutrients.
Intensity and Drive: It is linked with qualities such as intensity, ambition, and sharpness. People with a dominant Pitta Dosha are often determined and focused.
Body Functions: Pitta influences body temperature, skin complexion, hunger, thirst, and the production of digestive enzymes and bile.
Imbalances in Pitta Dosha can lead to conditions such as heartburn, acidity, inflammation, irritability, and digestive disorders. In contrast, balancing Pitta Dosha involves incorporating cooling, calming foods and practices into one's routine, such as consuming mild, non-spicy foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive heat and stress.
In essence, spicy foods can exacerbate Pitta Dosha imbalances, which can diminish the efficacy of Shilajit. To ensure you fully reap the multifaceted benefits Shilajit, it's advisable to avoid or limit spicy dishes around the time of consuming Shilajit.
4. Citrus Fruits:
When incorporating Shilajit into your wellness routine, it’s advisable to avoid consuming sour fruits. Despite their high vitamin C content, citrus fruits and other acidic fruits can disrupt digestion and increase acidity when taken with Shilajit.
This can hinder the absorption of Shilajit’s beneficial compounds, potentially reducing the effectiveness of this potent herb. To maximise the benefits of Shilajit, it’s best to steer clear of sour fruits to prevent indigestion and maintain optimal digestive harmony.
5. Heavy Meals:
Ayurveda underscores the significance of mindful eating, particularly when integrating Shilajit into your regimen. To maximise the benefits of this revered substance, it is crucial to avoid heavy or rich foods, which can lead to discomfort such as heartburn, gas, and acidity.
Examples of these are heavily processed foods, high sugar desserts, fried foods and creamy dishes. Additionally, specific legumes like Kulthi Dal (horse gram) and chickpeas are to be steered clear of. Consuming these foods alongside Shilajit are assured to diminish its efficacy, hindering its transformative effects on your wellness journey.
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