A-Z Ayurvedic remedy Articles

Chyawanprash (Chy) or Chyavanprash is a sticky mixture of herbs, and spices from the Ayurvedic tradition that is used in India for its toted health benefits. It is generally known as a rejuvenating tonic that strengthens the immune system and protects against aging, senility and debility.

Key Ingredients Found In Chyawanprash

In general, Chy contains 49 ayurvedic herbs, with the highest dose being Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis, or Amalaki). Other ingredients include ashwagandha, pippali, cardamom, nutmeg and cinnamon mixed into ghee (clarified butter), and honey.

This herbal mixture contains a large number of herbs, and the exact constituents and doses vary by the manufacturer.

Top Health Benefits of Chyawanprash Supplements

Immune Boosting Benefits

Chy is immunoprotective and to boost the activity of certain immune cells called macrophages. These are the cells that ingest and destroy harmful substances in our bodies. The main ingredient in Chy is Indian gooseberry, which is rich in vitamin C (445mg/100g). This could be a reason for its immune benefits, although further research is required to be sure.

Brain Health Advantages

Preliminary research in mice has shown that supplementing with Chy can increase brain glutathione levels and help protect against age-associated memory loss. Chy was shown to increase nerve transmission in the brain by boosting a brain-signalling molecule called acetylcholine. Since this result has only been seen in mice, more research is needed before we can be sure the same effect will occur in humans.

Blood Sugar Regulation

When a group of healthy adults were given 15g/day of Chy, they were found to have lower blood sugar following meals and healthier blood cholesterol levels after 16 weeks of use. This could benefit people suffering from diabetes or metabolic syndrome as it can prevent the after-meal glucose spikes that can eventually lead to peripheral insulin insensitivity. Regulating blood cholesterol can also help to protect the cardiovascular system in diabetics and reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome.

How To Take Chyawanprash Supplements

The only dose of Chy that has been studied in humans is 15 grams per day (1 Tablespoon). Thus, this is the dose that we know can be taken safely while providing the health benefits listed above. Ayurvedic practitioners have used doses larger than this for hundreds of years. As such, your healthcare practitioner may recommend a different dosage than the one listed here.

Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, Shilajit originates from the Asian mountain ranges. Temperature and location play a role in its exact composition, but it typically contains vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and amino acids.

Let’s explore shilajit further and discover how it supports health.

What Is Shilajit?

Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like substance that's found in the rocks of high-altitude mountain ranges in the Himalayas. It’s formed over hundreds of years by decomposing plant matter, primarily humus and a variety of minerals like fulvic acid and humid acid. It also contains fatty acids and other bioactive compounds.

Top 5 Health Benefits of Shilajit 

Unbeknownst to many, Shilajit is packed with many nutrients. While it needs more scientific research to confirm and identify all of its benefits, it is known to support:

1. Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) can be debilitating and make it difficult to focus, work, or conduct everyday activities. While there can be many causes for CFS from imbalanced hormones, adrenal issues or insomnia, there are some natural health remedies that may help, shilajit being one of them.

Researchers have found shilajit supplements may reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and restore energy.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, which occurs when cells don't make enough energy. One study from 2012 where rats were given shilajit for 3 weeks and were then induced with tiring activities for 3 weeks found that shilajit helped reduce the effects of chronic fatigue and the researchers believe this is due to shilajit's ability to help prevent mitochondrial dysfunction.

While more research is needed, especially on human participants, the current findings on this substance are compelling.

2. Slow The Effects of Aging

Shilajit is packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and fulvic acid. This makes it a great nutrient to fight against free radical and cellular damage that often cause signs of aging and break down collagen and elastin. Because of its nutrient packed profile, it can preserve these fibres, keeping your skin looking healthy and smooth. Shilajit can also contribute to longevity, overall health, and slowing the aging overall process.

3. Supports Iron Deficiency

Shilajit contains iron which can help your overall iron levels, and fulvic acid which can improve iron absorption and your body's ability to utilize it more effectively. By improving iron absorption, shilajit can support iron deficiency anemia by supporting the production of red blood cells.

Other than containing iron and fulvic acid, it contains other vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall blood health and vitality.

4. Heart Health

Because shilajit contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it may improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This can help protect the heart and enhance heart functioning.

Shilajit neutralizes free radicals that can damage blood vessels and lead to heart disease. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce chronic inflammation linked to heart issues, and some studies also suggest that it can help regulate blood pressure, a major contributing factor to heart disease.

Shilajit has also been found to improve cholesterol levels which can reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing HDL cholesterol.

5. Support Men's Health

Shilajit also has an affinity for men’s health and helps men with:

• Iron Deficiency 
• Boosting Testosterone
• Enhancing Sexual Wellness
• Slowing Aging
• Heart Health
• Enhancing Male Infertility

How To Take Shilajit Supplements

Shilajit comes in capsule and veggie capsule formulas. Label directions should be followed when looking at dosage, but most supplements recommend taking 2 capsules daily. 

Shopping For Quality Supplements

When shopping for quality Shilajit supplements, look for one that's pure, organic when possible, purified, free from fillers and contaminants, and comes from a company that's trusted by consumers. 

While Shilajit is generally well tolerated, side effects can include, digestive upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you are taking medications, consult your healthcare practitioner to make sure there aren't any contraindications. Shilajit can interact with certain blood thinners and diabetes medications.