Shilajit is a naturally occurring substance found high in the Himalayas and other mountain ranges around the world. It’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits.
A common question people have when starting to use shilajit is: “Can we take shilajit with water?” This article explores that question and looks at other ways of taking shilajit, especially with milk.
You can find shilajit in different forms, including resin, powder, and capsules or tablets. Each form has different instructions for how to use it.
Before adding shilajit to your wellness routine, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider. They can help you decide if shilajit is right for you and how much you should take.
What is Shilajit, anyway?
Shilajit is a natural substance that forms over centuries from the decomposition of plant matter. Think of it like a super-concentrated compost that’s been brewing for a long time in the mountains.
It’s made up of fulvic acid, humic substances, and more than 80 minerals. This potent combination has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, where it’s considered an adaptogen – something that helps your body cope with stress.
Shilajit is said to boost energy, strengthen bones, and improve nutrient absorption, offering potential benefits for overall well-being. It’s definitely having a moment in the wellness world!
Oral Consumption of Shilajit: Methods and Considerations
So, you’ve got your shilajit. Now what? How do you actually take it?
Here’s a breakdown of the common forms and how to use them:
Shilajit Resin
Resin is probably the most traditional form. To use it, dissolve a pea-sized amount (around 250-300mg) in lukewarm water or milk. Make sure it dissolves completely before you drink it. Some people believe that taking it with milk might help your body absorb it better, thanks to the fats and proteins in milk.
Shilajit Powder
Powder is another popular option. You can mix the recommended dose (usually 300-500mg) with water, milk, or any other beverage you like. The powder form is often seen as convenient and easy to use.
Shilajit Capsules or Tablets
Capsules and tablets are pre-dosed, which takes the guesswork out of it. The dosage usually ranges from 250mg to 500mg, but it can vary depending on the manufacturer, so always read the label. These are super easy to take and carry around with you.
Can You Take Shilajit with Water? Benefits and Considerations
Water is a readily available and neutral-tasting option for taking shilajit, making it a practical choice for many. It’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
To take shilajit with water, simply dissolve a pea-sized amount of shilajit resin or powder in lukewarm water. Make sure the shilajit is fully dissolved before you drink it.
One of the benefits of using water is that you’ll also get the added benefit of hydration, along with the potential health benefits of shilajit itself.
However, water might not be the best option for absorption. Some believe that taking shilajit with milk, which contains fats and proteins, could enhance its absorption in the body compared to taking it with water alone. But if you don’t consume dairy, or just prefer water, it’s still a fine way to take shilajit.
Shilajit with Milk: Is it a Good Idea?
Taking shilajit with milk is a popular practice, and some believe it boosts shilajit’s benefits, especially for women’s health. The fats and proteins in milk may help your body absorb shilajit’s nutrients more effectively. Milk’s calcium content could also complement shilajit, potentially leading to better bone health.
Preparing shilajit with milk is simple. Just dissolve a pea-sized amount of shilajit resin or powder into a glass of lukewarm milk and drink.
You can use different types of milk, like cow’s milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that the fat content of the milk you choose might affect how well your body absorbs the shilajit. More research is needed to understand how different types of milk affect shilajit absorption.
Other Methods of Consuming Shilajit
While dissolving shilajit in water is common, there are other ways to take it.
Shilajit in Herbal Teas
You can also add shilajit to herbal teas. Just dissolve the recommended dose in your favorite tea, such as chamomile for relaxation or ginger for digestion, to give your tea an extra boost.
Topical Application
Some sources suggest topical application of shilajit for skin health. While more research is needed, its antioxidant properties could potentially benefit the skin and potentially even increase hair growth. If you’re thinking about applying it to your skin, be sure to do a patch test first to check for any irritation.
Tips for Enhancing Shilajit Consumption
If you’re thinking about adding shilajit to your diet, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Start slow and monitor your body
When you first start taking shilajit, begin with a small dose. It’s always a good idea to see how your body responds to a new supplement. Pay attention to how you feel so you can assess how well you tolerate it and whether it seems to be making a difference.
Consistency is key
Like with many supplements, you’re likely to get the best results if you take shilajit regularly. Try to incorporate it into your daily routine so you don’t forget.
Avoid overheating
Be careful not to overheat shilajit when you’re preparing it. As detailed in this dosage guide, high temperatures may degrade some of its beneficial compounds.
Pair with a balanced diet
Shilajit is a supplement, so it’s meant to add to your existing healthy lifestyle. Be sure you’re eating a balanced diet to support your overall well-being.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Like any supplement, Shilajit can have side effects. Some people report digestive problems, headaches, or allergic reactions. It’s vital to listen to your body and stop taking Shilajit if you experience any adverse effects.
More importantly, be cautious about where you buy Shilajit. Because it’s harvested from the earth, there’s a risk of contamination. Always buy from a reputable source and check for third-party testing to verify purity and authenticity.
Finally, and I cannot stress this enough, talk to your doctor before taking Shilajit, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are on any medications. Shilajit could interact with certain drugs, and your doctor can help you determine if it’s safe for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Shilajit help you sleep?
While research is still emerging, some individuals report that Shilajit promotes relaxation and may contribute to improved sleep quality. This could be linked to its potential stress-reducing properties. However, more studies are needed to confirm these effects.
What vitamins should you not take with Shilajit?
There isn’t conclusive evidence that Shilajit interacts negatively with specific vitamins. However, it’s always wise to consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified nutritionist before combining Shilajit with other supplements, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take prescription medications.
Can I mix Shilajit with water?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, mixing Shilajit with water is a common and recommended way to consume it. The resin form typically dissolves well in warm water. This allows for easy absorption of the beneficial compounds.
Which form of Shilajit is most effective?
The effectiveness of Shilajit can depend on several factors, including the quality of the source and individual absorption rates. Resin is often considered a potent form because it’s minimally processed. However, capsules and powders offer convenience. Choose a reputable brand that provides lab-tested Shilajit.
Is Shilajit taken with water?
Yes, it is. Many people take Shilajit with warm water to help it dissolve and make it easier to consume. It can also be mixed with milk or other beverages, depending on personal preference. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and preparation is always a good idea.
Conclusion
You can enjoy shilajit in different ways: mixed with water, milk, or your beverage of choice. The best way is whatever works for you!
When you decide how you want to take it, be sure to consider safety. Talk with a healthcare professional before adding shilajit to your daily routine.
Shilajit is a supplement used to boost energy, aid detoxification, and more. When you’ve decided it’s right for you, you can find a way to add it to your life to support your overall health.