Shilajit: evalution of its effects on blood chemistry of normal human subjects
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Shilajit: evalution of its effects on blood chemistry of normal human subjects
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Praveen Sharma, Jagrati Jha, V. Shrinivas, L.K. Dwivedi, P. Suresh, M. Sinha
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Shilajit: evalution of its effects on blood chemistry of normal human subjects
Year: 2003
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Shilajit is a naturally occurring bituminous substance composed of various organic materials, widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating numerous ailments including diabetes, jaundice, and neurological disorders. Despite its extensive use and claimed therapeutic benefits, there has been limited systematic research exploring the biological and therapeutic actions of Shilajit. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of purified Shilajit on blood chemistry and organ function in normal human subjects, assessing its impact on various biochemical parameters and antioxidant status over a 45-day supplementation period.
Antioxidant and Hypolipidemic Effects of Shilajit
The results indicate that administration of 2 grams of Shilajit daily led to significant improvements in lipid profiles, marked by a notable reduction in serum triglycerides, cholesterol, and LDL levels, alongside an increase in HDL cholesterol. Additionally, Shilajit supplementation enhanced the antioxidant status of the participants, evidenced by increased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. These findings suggest that Shilajit may exert hypolipidemic and cardiovascular protective effects while bolstering the body's antioxidant defenses, attributed primarily to its fulvic acid content, which acts as a potent antioxidant.
Conclusion
The study concludes that Shilajit supplementation does not adversely affect general health parameters such as blood pressure, kidney, and liver function, while demonstrating significant beneficial effects on lipid metabolism and antioxidant levels. These findings support the traditional claims of Shilajit's health benefits, particularly its roles in lowering harmful lipid levels and enhancing antioxidant protection, highlighting the need for further research to fully elucidate its mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications in various health conditions.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the primary focus of the Shilajit study?
The study focused on evaluating the effects of Shilajit on blood chemistry in normal human subjects, specifically its impact on lipid levels and antioxidant capacity.
How was Shilajit administered to the volunteers?
Volunteers received 2 grams of purified Shilajit daily in the form of capsules for 45 days, while a control group received a placebo.
What significant results were found regarding blood lipids?
Shilajit supplementation led to a significant reduction in serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, and VLDL cholesterol, and an increase in HDL cholesterol, indicating hypolipidemic activity.
Did the study show any adverse effects on health?
The study found no significant adverse effects on blood pressure, pulse rate, body weight, or kidney and liver function parameters, suggesting that Shilajit is safe for healthy individuals.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Shilajit: evalution of its effects on blood chemistry of normal human subjects�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Shilajit (ÅšilÄjit, Shila-jit):
Shilajit is a natural bituminous substance believed to possess numerous health benefits. Its therapeutic effects stem from its rich composition, mainly fulvic acid and various minerals. A traditional Ayurvedic remedy, Shilajit is used for ailments ranging from energy enhancement to antioxidant support, making it a subject of scientific assessment.
2) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid in the body carrying oxygen and nutrients to cells while removing waste products. In the study, blood chemistry was analyzed to observe the effects of Shilajit on biochemical parameters like triglycerides and cholesterol, highlighting its potential health benefits.
3) Activity:
Activity refers to the biological interactions and physiological effects of substances. In this context, the study evaluated the antioxidant and hypolipidemic activities of Shilajit, indicating how it might alter blood chemistry and improve overall health through various biochemical processes.
4) Sugar:
Sugar, particularly blood sugar, is a key metabolic parameter often measured to assess health. The study monitored blood sugar levels before and after Shilajit supplementation, exploring its influence on glucose metabolism and contributing to a broader understanding of nutritional and cardiovascular health.
5) Drug:
A drug is a substance that causes a change in physiological state when introduced to the body. Shilajit serves as a natural drug in traditional medicine and is evaluated scientifically for its potential therapeutic effects on conditions like hyperlipidemia, hypoglycemia, and oxidative stress.
6) Purification:
Purification is a critical process that removes impurities from substances like Shilajit, enhancing its safety and efficacy. The study employed rigorous purification methods to ensure that the effects observed were truly due to Shilajit’s active compounds, therefore strengthening the study's findings on its health benefits.
7) Ayurveda (Ä€yurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating from India, based on holistic well-being. Shilajit is prominently featured in Ayurvedic practices for its reputed healing properties. This study aligns traditional knowledge with modern scientific inquiry, validating the potential health benefits of Ayurveda through controlled experimentation.
8) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses a broad range of practices designed to cure or relieve ailments. The study positions Shilajit within medicinal contexts, evaluating its role as a natural remedy. Its applications in conditions such as diabetes and anemia reflect medicine's evolving understanding of natural substances.
9) Water:
Water is essential for the purification and preparation of Shilajit, serving as a solvent in the extraction process. In the context of this study, water's role extends beyond physical properties; it acts as a crucial medium facilitating the beneficial effects observed from Shilajit supplementation.
10) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
Dysmenorrhoea refers to painful menstrual periods, a condition for which Shilajit has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine. Understanding its analgesic effects contributes to identifying potentially beneficial applications of Shilajit in women’s health, warranting further research to solidify these claims scientifically.
11) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis is a severe infectious disease that has been treated historically with various herbal remedies including Shilajit. The study tends to bridge the gap between traditional claims and scientific validation, offering insights into Shilajit’s role as a supportive treatment in managing tuberculosis and improving general health.
12) Discussion:
Discussion in research helps interpret results and relate findings to existing knowledge. In this study, the discussion provides a platform for analyzing the implications of Shilajit’s effects on blood chemistry, facilitating a deeper understanding of its potential antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties.
13) Substance:
A substance is a form of matter with a specific chemical composition. In the context of this research, Shilajit is the primary substance under investigation, essential to understanding its chemical properties and how these contribute to its observed health benefits in human subjects.
14) Samgraha (Saá¹…graha, Saṃgraha, SaṃgrÄha, Sangraha):
Samgraha refers to a collection or compilation in Ayurveda. The term sometimes relates to medicinal texts compiling various remedies and their applications. In the study, invoking Ayurvedic principles underscores the necessity of understanding traditional practices while applying them to modern scientific scrutiny.
15) Hysteria:
Hysteria represents a historical diagnosis often associated with psychological conditions characterized by extreme emotion or behavior. It is one of the conditions for which Shilajit has been traditionally used, indicating its broader implications for mental health that merit further scientific exploration.
16) Samhita (SaṃhitÄ, Saṃhita):
Samhita pertains to ancient texts in Ayurveda that consolidate knowledge regarding medicinal herbs and practices. These texts often cite Shilajit for its health benefits. The study serves to validate these ancient claims through controlled scientific methodologies, translating traditional wisdom into modern health insights.
17) Leprosy:
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that historically had devastating social implications and was treated with various herbal remedies. Shilajit’s mention in Ayurvedic literature for leprosy indicates its long-standing use in holistic health approaches, warranting examination of its efficacy in contemporary medical contexts.
18) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the natural world, relying on empirical evidence and reproducible results. This study exemplifies the scientific approach to understanding Shilajit, assessing its health benefits through rigorous experimentation and biochemical analysis, thereby bridging ancient knowledge and modern practices.
19) Siddha (SiddhÄ):
Siddha is a traditional medicine system practiced predominantly in South India. It shares similarities with Ayurveda in its holistic approach to health. Understanding Shilajit’s recognition across these systems highlights the interconnectivity of traditional medicine and strength of natural remedies in addressing various health issues.
20) Sharman (Åšarma, SarmÄ, Sarma, Sharma, Åšarman):
Sharma is a common surname in India, often indicative of scholarly or priestly backgrounds. In this study, the author Pravenn Sharma contributes to Ayurvedic and biochemical research, showcasing the integration of traditional practices and scientific inquiry for health optimization through substances like Shilajit.
21) Pandita (Paṇá¸ita, Paṇá¸it, Paṇá¸itÄ, Pandit):
Pandit signifies a learned person, often an expert in scriptures or traditional knowledge systems like Ayurveda. The reference to Pandit suggests an acknowledgment of scholarly contributions in documenting and validating the medicinal uses of substances such as Shilajit, reinforcing the importance of academic rigor in traditional practices.
22) Simha (Siṃha):
Sinha is a surname commonly seen in India, often associated with people well-versed in various fields. In this research article, M. Sinha’s involvement indicates a collaborative effort to explore the health impacts of Shilajit, embodying a multidisciplinary approach towards validating Ayurvedic traditions through scientific means.
23) Stana:
Stana, meaning place or abode in Sanskrit, often appears in classical texts referencing locations of healing properties or sacred medicines. In the study, Stana emphasizes the Ayurvedic heritage that Shilajit represents, connecting its geographical origins with its medicinal significance, as seen in traditional applications.
24) Sara (ÅšÄra, Shara, SÄra, á¹¢aṟÄ�):
Sara, meaning essence or summary in Sanskrit, pertains to identifying the core attributes of substances in Ayurvedic studies. This concept reflects in the research's aim to distill the essence of Shilajit’s health benefits, presenting clear evidence of its contributions to blood chemistry and overall wellness.
25) Shand (Åšaṇá¸, Sand):
Sand symbolizes foundational elements necessary for life and growth. In the context of Shilajit, it represents the earth’s contribution to the development of medicinal substances through natural processes. Understanding these components addresses the holistic view of health, emphasizing nature's role in traditional healing practices.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Shilajit: evalution of its effects on blood chemistry of normal human subjects�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Shilajit, Active principle, Clinical condition, Fulvic acid, Hypolipidemic activity, Hematological Parameters, Cardio-protective activity, Antioxidant status, Physical parameter, Antioxidant enzyme, Blood sample, Blood Chemistry, Super oxide radical.