Abstract

SHILAJEET: A BRIEF REVIEW

Dr. Pooja V. Shaha* and Dr. Shashiprabha L. Gupta

Abstract

Rasashastra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda which mainly deals with the metals, minerals, animal origin product, toxic herbs and their use in therapeutics. The mixture of metallic and herbal products combinelly forms herbomineral formulation or Rasaushadhi. Shilajeet is one of important Rasdravya mentioned as a Maharasa. According to Acharya Charaka there is no disease in the world which cannot be treated by Shilajeet, if it administered at appropriate time and combined with suitable drugs in proper dose. Shilajeet is considered as a best Rasayan. In ayurvedic texts it’s types, Shodhana, Marana, Satvapatan procedures have been mentioned in details. Chemical constituents of Shilajeet are humic substances like fulvic acid, humic acid, triterpenes, selenium and nearly 85 ionic minerals. According to Acharyas, Shilajeet is used in the urinary disorders, urinary stones, diabetes, obesity and also for antiaging, rejuvenation and vitality.

Keywords: Shilajeet, Maharas, Rasayan.