Shilajit, nicknamed "the tears of the Himalayas," is a precious substance used for millennia in traditional medicine practices such as Ayurveda. Originating in the mountainous regions of the Himalayas, it is now generating increasing interest for its unique health benefits and therapeutic potential. Laboratory analysis, essential in the nutraceutical industry , plays a key role in ensuring the quality and safety of Shilajit. This article explores this fascinating natural remedy in depth, its characteristics, and the reasons for its popularity among researchers and healthcare professionals.
1. A substance from the Himalayan mountains
Shilajit is a mineral and plant-based substance that oozes from rock fissures in mountains, particularly in the Himalayan regions between India and Nepal. This blackish resin is the result of a long process of decomposition of organic matter, combined with minerals from mountain rocks. This unique origin gives it a chemical composition rich in elements essential for health.
An age-old practice that remains relevant today.
Used for over 3,000 years, Shilajit is mentioned in numerous Ayurvedic texts as a powerful remedy for strengthening the body and mind. Its reputation extends far beyond India, now reaching global markets where it is offered in resin, powder, or capsule form. It is particularly valued for improving stamina, vitality, and resistance to disease.
A unique source of micronutrients
Shilajit is renowned for its exceptional richness in micronutrients, particularly fulvic and humic acids. These natural compounds, combined with a wide variety of minerals such as iron, zinc, and magnesium, make it an excellent dietary supplement to address deficiencies and support cellular metabolism.
2. What is shilajit?
A unique geographical origin
Shilajit forms in the mountainous regions of the Himalayas, where extreme pressure and temperature conditions promote the slow decomposition of organic matter trapped in rock fissures. This matter, derived from plants and other living organisms, mixes with the minerals in the rocks to form a nutrient-rich resin. High-altitude areas, such as those in the Himalayas, provide exceptional purity to this product, protecting it from pollution and contaminants.
An exceptional chemical composition
Shilajit is primarily composed of fulvic and humic acids, substances that play a crucial role in nutrient transport at the cellular level. Fulvic acids, in particular, facilitate mineral absorption and increase cellular metabolic efficiency. Furthermore, Shilajit contains over 85 essential minerals, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, and copper, as well as B vitamins, which contribute to supporting the body's physiological functions.
Available forms
Shilajit is sold in several forms, each adapted to specific needs:
- Resin : Considered the purest and most concentrated form, it is often preferred by purists of Ayurvedic medicine.
- Powder : More practical to transport and consume, it is obtained by dehydrating the resin.
- Capsules : Ideal for those who wish to avoid the strong, earthy taste of Shilajit, they allow for precise dosing.
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3. The benefits of Shilajit
An invaluable source of micronutrients
Shilajit is rich in essential minerals and trace elements such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. These elements play a crucial role in maintaining electrolyte balance, strengthening bones and teeth, and supporting nerve function. The fulvic acids it contains facilitate the absorption of these nutrients, increasing their bioavailability and maximizing their beneficial effects on the body.
A natural energy and vitality booster
Shilajit acts as an energy tonic by increasing ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production at the cellular level. This molecule, essential for energy metabolism, improves endurance and resistance to fatigue. This makes it an ideal supplement for active people, athletes, or those facing periods of intense stress.
Support for the immune system
Thanks to its richness in antioxidants, particularly fulvic acids, Shilajit strengthens the body's natural defenses by neutralizing free radicals. It thus protects cells against oxidative stress and helps prevent infections and illnesses, especially during the winter months.
Adaptogenic and regenerative properties
In Ayurveda, Shilajit is classified among the "Rasayanas," substances recognized for their regenerative and balancing properties. It helps harmonize the doshas, the body's vital energies, and improves the ability to adapt to physical and mental stress. This adaptogenic action helps reduce cortisol levels and improve the body's overall resilience.
A valuable aid for digestion and toxin elimination
Shilajit stimulates enzymatic activity in the digestive system, promoting fast and efficient digestion. It also helps eliminate accumulated toxins from the body, an essential process for maintaining a healthy metabolism. Its detoxifying properties are particularly beneficial for people exposed to environmental pollutants or those with an unbalanced diet.
Support for cognitive and mental health
Studies have shown that Shilajit can improve memory, concentration, and mental clarity through its effects on brain function. It also promotes blood circulation, ensuring better oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain, which is crucial for optimal performance.
A natural remedy for sexual vitality
Shilajit is often used to improve fertility and sexual vitality. In men, it works by increasing testosterone levels and improving sperm quality. In women, it can boost libido and support hormonal balance.
4. Scientific analysis of the shilajit
Demonstration of fulvic and humic acids
Fulvic and humic acids are the key components of Shilajit. Their presence and concentration largely determine the product's quality. Laboratories use techniques such as:
- Alkaline extraction and pH separation : This method allows the separation of fulvic and humic acids according to their chemical properties.
- Analysis by HPLC-SEC ( High Performance Liquid Chromatography by Size Exclusion) : This technique precisely quantifies fulvic and humic acids, ensuring a detailed evaluation of their concentration.
These methods make it possible to verify that the product meets quality standards, with an ideal fulvic acid content of more than 50%.
Microbiological analyses
To ensure the safety of Shilajit, it is essential to verify that it does not contain pathogenic microorganisms. Microbiological analyses include:
- Detection of pathogenic bacteria : Such as coliforms, salmonella or staphylococci.
- Testing for fungal contamination : In order to avoid any risk related to mold or yeast.
These tests are essential to certify that the product is free from microbiological hazards.
Heavy metal detection
Given the geological origin of Shilajit, contamination by heavy metals such as lead, mercury, or cadmium can occur. Analyses include:
- Atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) : Used to detect and quantify heavy metals at extremely low levels.
- ICP-MS (Induction-coupled plasma mass spectrometry) : A precise method for measuring the concentration of various metallic elements.
These tests ensure that Shilajit does not exceed the safety thresholds set by regulatory bodies.
Search for pesticide residues
To validate the purity of Shilajit, it is crucial to verify the absence of pesticides, especially if the harvest or production has been subject to uncontrolled agricultural practices. Analyses include:
- Gas Chromatography-MS : A method for detecting a wide range of pesticide residues.
- LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Mass Spectrometry) : A highly sensitive technique for identifying and quantifying traces of pesticides.
These analyses ensure that the product is free of undesirable chemicals, thus reinforcing its safety for consumers.
5. YesWeLab and its role in analyzing products like shilajit
Analytical expertise at your service
YesWeLab offers a comprehensive service to help identify the analyses needed to validate a product like Shilajit. These recommendations are tailored to the specific needs of each client, whether it's ensuring chemical purity, detecting contaminants, or measuring essential nutrient content.
YesWeLab's teams include experienced scientists who ensure that analyses meet international standards, such as ISO 17025 certifications and COFRAC accreditations.
A network of certified partner laboratories
YesWeLab collaborates with over 200 partner laboratories in Europe, specializing in various fields such as:
- Microbiological Analyses : To detect pathogens and guarantee food safety.
- Heavy Metal Detection : To assess product compliance with regulatory thresholds.
- Pesticide Residue Tests : To verify the purity of raw materials.
These laboratories, chosen for their rigor and expertise, make it possible to obtain reliable and reproducible results.
Simplified analysis management
Thanks to its intuitive digital platform, YesWeLab simplifies the management of laboratory analyses. Clients can:
- Submitting Their Samples : Made easy thanks to digital tracking.
- Follow the progress of the analyses : And be informed in real time of the status of the tests.
- Receive the results : Fast, accurate, and compliant with regulatory expectations.
This centralized approach guarantees valuable time savings for companies and personalized support throughout the process.
Support for complex challenges
YesWeLab distinguishes itself by its ability to handle specific or unusual requests. If an analysis requires non-standard techniques, the company leverages its network to find the most suitable laboratory. This support is particularly valuable for products like Shilajit, whose complex characteristics necessitate diverse and precise analytical methods.
By working with YesWeLab, companies and professionals benefit from comprehensive support, from defining analytical needs to receiving final results. This collaboration guarantees rigorous validation of the quality and security of Shilajit, while simplifying the process for stakeholders.
