In our previous posts we have established the fact that Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that has long been used as a supplement for its healing properties. But let us see historically how long it has actually been that Shilajit is providing benefits to the humankind. In this post we will discuss the history and origin of Shilajit.
What’s in the name?
Shilajit is a Sanskrit word meaning “Winner of rock” and “Conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness” .It is also spelt as Shilajeet, Salajeet and is known by various other names like Shilajita Mumiyo, mimie, or mummiy; Mineral pitch, Mineral wax or Ozokerite in English; Black Asphaltum; and Asphaltum punjabianum in Latin.
How it was discovered?
Shilajit has been used for thousands of years in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of health conditions. It is believed that the substance was first discovered in the Himalayas by ancient tribes who noticed that animals would gather around certain rocks and lick the resin-like substance that oozed out of them.
The tribesmen then began to observe the animals and noticed that they appeared to be healthier and stronger after consuming the substance. This led them to try shilajit themselves and they too experienced its health benefits. Over time, shilajit became an important part of Ayurvedic medicine and was used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, and arthritis.
In modern times, scientists have begun to study shilajit and have discovered that it contains numerous bioactive compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. These properties make shilajit a potential treatment for a variety of health conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and heart disease.