Shilajit and Cancer: The Science Behind It

Tuesday 18 July 2023
Shilajit and Cancer: The Science Behind It

Shilajit is a natural substance that has been used for a long time in traditional medicine in India. It is made from plants and minerals that break down over many years in the cracks of rocks, mostly in the Himalayan and Altai mountains.

Shilajit has a large part in history and has been talked about in old books like the Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita, which are thousands of years old. It was seen as something that could make you feel younger and healthier and keep you strong.

But Does shilajit cure cancer? Let's find out! 


Shilajit: Chemical Composition and Nutritional Profile

Before getting into the impact of shilajit on cancer, it's important to grasp the nutritional profile and chemical composition that make shilajit, shilajit.


Chemical Composition

  1. Fulvic Acid: Fulvic acid is one of the primary components of shilajit, responsible for its dark color. It is a natural compound derived from the decomposition of organic matter and is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

  2. Humic Acid: Humic acid is another crucial component found in shilajit. Like fulvic acid, it is formed during the decomposition of plant matter and contributes to dark coloration. Humic acid possesses antioxidant and immune-modulatory effects.

  3. Dibenzo-α-pyrones: Shilajit contains various dibenzo-α-pyrones, such as DBP-Mn, DBP-Zn, and DBP-Fe, which are bioactive compounds associated with several health benefits.

  4. Trace Minerals: Shilajit is rich in essential minerals like iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, copper, and manganese. These minerals play vital roles in various physiological processes and are necessary for the proper functioning of the body.

  5. Amino Acids: Shilajit contains a range of amino acids, including phenylalanine, histidine, lysine, valine, and proline, among others. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues in the body.

  6. Polyphenols: Shilajit contains polyphenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Also Read: Shilajit vs Ashwagandha - (Differences, Uses, & Benefits)


Nutritional Profile

Here is the list of macronutrients and micronutrients to understand the nutritional value of shilajit:

NutrientAmount Per 100gmAmount Per 1tbsp
Calories300 Kcal45
Protein10g1.5g
Carbohydrates60g9g
Fat5g0.75
Fibre2g0.3
Calcium100mg15mg
Iron10mg1.5mg
Magnesium200mg30mg
Potassium500mg75mg
Vitamin C10mg1.5mg
Vitamin E5mg0.75mg
Zinc15mg2.25mg

Read More: Shilajit: The Natural Supplement for Stamina



Does Shilajit Cure Cancer?

To be honest, it would be a big claim to state that only shilajit can cure cancer. But shilajit definitely accelerates the treatment of cancer. Here’s how it can come to your aid:

Shilajit has some incredible properties that make it a potential fighter against cancer. It's packed with antioxidants that protect our cells from damage by scavenging harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. This can help prevent DNA mutations and other changes that can lead to cancer. 

Additionally, Shilajit has anti-inflammatory properties, which is important because chronic inflammation can create a favorable environment for tumor growth and spread.

But that's not all! Shilajit also has a powerful effect on our immune system, our body's defense against diseases. It can strengthen certain immune cells and send important signals to make our immune system work harder, helping us recognize and fight against cancer cells.

In fact, studies have shown that Shilajit can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It contains special components that interfere with the signaling pathways involved in cancer cell growth and survival. 

Moreover, Shilajit has the ability to induce apoptosis, a natural process of self-destruction in cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells unharmed. This selective induction of apoptosis in cancer cells is really promising for cancer research and therapy development.

Not only that, Shilajit might even have the power to hinder the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors and prevent cancer cells from spreading to other parts of the body. This is important because angiogenesis and metastasis are critical steps in cancer progression.

Find Out: How Long Does it Take for Shilajit To Work?


Final Thoughts

Shilajit has exciting possibilities for helping in cancer treatment. It has special properties that can fight against cancer cells and boost our immune system. But it's important to remember that Shilajit should always be used with guidance from your doctor and alongside the treatments and medications they prescribe.

To make the most of Shilajit and support your health, it's crucial to have a healthy lifestyle too. This means being active and exercising regularly, as well as eating lots of nutritious food. Filling your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can give your body the important nutrients and antioxidants it needs to stay strong and fight off cancer.

Always remember that Shilajit is not a complete solution on its own. It should be used together with medical advice, prescribed medicines, and a healthy lifestyle. By working closely with your doctor, taking your prescribed treatments, and making smart food choices, you can give yourself the best chance for successful cancer management and recovery.

Read More: 10 Best Shilajit Benefits for Women


Sources

https://draxe.com/nutrition/shilajit/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26530234/

http://dspace.cus.ac.in/jspui/bitstream/1/4138/1/shilajit-a-panacea-for-cancer.pdf

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Akhilesh-Verma/publication/305765448_Shilajitin_Cancer_Treatment_Probable_Mode_of_Action/links/579f72d008ae100d380656ce/Shilajitin-Cancer-Treatment-Probable-Mode-of-Action.pdf