From the Guidelines
Shilajit oil massage is not a proven method for improving physical performance or reducing stress, and its effectiveness is largely anecdotal. When considering the use of shilajit oil massage, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the lack of scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine has used shilajit for centuries, and when formulated into massage oils, it may help with muscle relaxation and potentially reduce inflammation [ 1 ]. For stress reduction, the massage itself likely provides more benefit than the shilajit component through the well-documented effects of touch therapy on lowering cortisol levels [ 1 ]. Some key points to consider when using shilajit oil massage include:
- Using products from reputable sources
- Performing a patch test first to check for allergic reactions
- Starting with a 10-15 minute massage 2-3 times weekly
- Warming the oil slightly before application and massaging using gentle to moderate pressure
- Consulting healthcare providers before use, especially for people with bleeding disorders, pregnant or nursing women, and those with certain medical conditions. The potential benefits likely come from a combination of the massage technique itself and the purported adaptogenic properties of shilajit, which contains fulvic acid and various minerals that may support cellular function and energy production. However, it's crucial to prioritize evidence-based treatments for physical performance and stress reduction, and shilajit oil massage should not be relied upon as the sole method for addressing these issues.
From the Research
Safety and Efficacy of Shilajit Oil Massage
- Shilajit is considered a safe and potent dietary supplement, restoring energetic balance and potentially preventing several diseases 2.
- The safety of shilajit is well documented based on animal and human studies, with various research studies indicating that it exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, immunomodulatory, and anti-dyslipidemic properties 3.
- Shilajit has been used as a rejuvenator for ages in Indian ancient traditional medicine and has been validated for a number of pharmacological activities, including enhancing physical performance and relieving fatigue 3, 4.
Physical Performance and Stress Reduction
- Animal and human studies indicate that shilajit enhances physical performance and relieving fatigue with enhanced production of ATP, making it a potential natural remedy for improving physical performance 3.
- Shilajit has been found to mitigate the effects of chronic fatigue syndrome by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and preserving mitochondrial function and integrity, which may help in reducing stress and improving physical performance 4.
- The use of shilajit as a 'revitalizer' has been supported by animal and human data, which suggests that it may be beneficial for reducing stress and improving overall well-being 3.
Bioactive Components
- The key constituents in shilajit responsible for its effects appear to be dibenzo-α-pyrones and fulvic acid and their derivatives, which have been found to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties 3, 4.
- Fulvic acid, the main active principle of shilajit, has been found to block tau self-aggregation, which may have potential implications for the treatment of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease 2.