Shilajit is something that is mostly found in the Himalayas, Tibet, and other mountainous areas. It has been used in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for centuries. Shilajit is made from slowly decomposed plants and minerals, which collect in the cracks of the mountains. Its color is dark brown or blackish and it is found in a sticky form like resin. It contains fulvic acid, humic acid, and many types of minerals, which are considered very beneficial for the body.

Where do heavy metals come from in Shilajit?

Recent studies and research have revealed that heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium may be present in Shilajit, which can prove to be harmful to the body. In such a situation, the first question that arises is where these heavy metals come from in Shilajit. Shilajit is formed from biological and geological processes taking place inside mountains and rocks for thousands of years.

In such a situation, if Shilajit is found in a place where there are more heavy metals in the soil and water due to mining, factories, or human activities, then the amount of these toxic elements can increase. At the same time, if the right purification methods are not used during processing, then these metals can remain in Shilajit. Therefore, it is very important to take pure and tested Shilajit, so that any kind of toxicity can be avoided.

What harm can heavy metals cause to the body?

If the heavy metals present in Shilajit (such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium) enter the body in large quantities, then it can be very dangerous for health. These metals gradually accumulate in the body and can cause many types of health problems in the long run.

Lead: Lead has a bad effect on the nervous system and can weaken brain function. It can cause learning disorders in children high blood pressure, kidney damage, and weakened immune systems in adults.

Mercury: Mercury exposure can cause problems like neurological disorders, memory loss, and muscle weakness. Its effect is seen more in pregnant women, as it can affect the development of the child.

Arsenic: This is a toxic element, which can cause cancer, skin diseases, heart problems, and gastrointestinal issues if it remains in the body for a long time.

Cadmium: This metal weakens bone health and can damage the kidneys. People are already victims of cadmium exposure due to smoking and pollution, and if a large amount of it enters the body through Shilajit, it can be even more harmful.

How is Shilajit prepared?

In Ayurveda, there is a traditional method of preparing pure Shilajit, which is called the Shodhana process. This process is done to remove impurities, heavy metals, and other toxins from Shilajit so that it is safer and more effective. Purification usually follows the methods mentioned in Ayurvedic texts.

Collecting Shilajit: First, Shilajit is collected from the rocks of the mountains. It is a black or brown resin-like substance mixed with soil, stones, and other impurities.

Washing process: Raw Shilajit is washed several times by dipping it in hot water or herbal decoction. This removes dust, soil and other solid particles present in it.