The herbal supplements Ashwagandha and Shilajit are two very potent herbs gaining popularity because of their many health benefits. In view of the rising demand for herbal remedies, many individuals are looking for the best out of two supplements and how to improve their health and also wellness.
In this article we will visit the the world of Ashwagandha and also Shilajit, discuss their pros and cons, and also help you to choose the best supplement for you.
WHAT IS ASHWAGANDHA?
This herb belongs to the nightshade family, and has been used in the Ayurvedic system for thousands of years; Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is its Sanskrit name. Withania somnifera, also known as Indian Ginseng or Winter Cherry, is a very good drug which is a ‘adaptogen’ that can increase the body’s function under stress and to maintain the balance. Studies have reported that ashwagandha has been widely studied for its the psychophysiologic impact on the both mental and also physical health.
WHAT IS SHILAJIT?
The fossilized remains of plants—often referred to as the shilajit fossils—are very sticky, tarry-like substances that are generally found in the rocks of the Himalayan and Altai mountains. Resulting from the millennium degradation of the plants, fulvic acid and also humic acid are contained in it. Like Ashwagandha, Shilajit is an ancient remedy used for several centuries in the Indian Subcontinent, acquiring a reputation as a substance which many people believe promotes the health, vigor and also welfare.
ASHWAGANDHA BENEFITS
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Relieves stress and anxiety.
Based on the studies conducted, ashwagandha is shown to help in reducing stress and anxiety through decreasing the levels of cortisol, which is the major hormone responsible for stress in the body. In the aspect to this measure the application showed significant reductions in cortisol and after the use of Aswhagandha the participants showed lowered amounts of the secretion of the hormone than the use of placebo.
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Improves cognitive functioning and memory.
This study reveals that Ashwagandha has brain-enhancing effects due to its neuroprotective properties **[and]** Ashwagandha is thought to decrease oxidative stress, inflammation and promote neuronal connections.
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SUPPORTS IMMUNE SYSTEM
Ashwagandha has been found to be immunomodulatory by boosting the production of various leukocytes and other immune cells. This study reported that Ashwagandha supplementation significantly raised the number of immune cells in the participants more than a control group.
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PROMOTES MUSCLE GROWTH AND STRENGTH
Ashwagandha may help improve muscle mass and strength in healthy individuals. This research found that participants who took Ashwagandha experienced significant increases in muscle mass and strength compared to those who took a placebo.
SHILAJIT BENEFITS
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BOOSTS ENERGY LEVELS
Shilajit is well-known for its capacity to enhance the energy levels and the whole wellness. It is composed of different minerals and other substances which aid in the metabolic processes of an organism. The present paper indicated that Shilajit supplementation increased ATP production as the main energy source of the body.
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SUPPORTS BRAIN HEALTH
Shilajit has been found to have a high level of fulvic acid which has been shown to be neuroprotective. This study revealed that fulvic acid from Shilajit prevented development of neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, thus retarding the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
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SUPPORTS BONE AND JOINT HEALTH
In fact, Shilajit has been shown to enhance its function of mineral absorption mostly of calcium and phosphorus and collagen production that promotes the health of bones and joints. In this study the increase in bone mineral density of osteoporous patients has been shown by Shilajit supplementation administration.
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ENHANCES MALE FERTILITY
There has been the traditional usage of shilajit in improving male fertility and the recent research backs up this claim. This study revealed that Shilajit supplementation resulted in an increment of sperm count and motility in infertile men.
SIDE EFFECTS AND PRECAUTIONS
ASHWAGANDHA SIDE EFFECTS
Usually, Ashwagandha is regarded as safe for many people when taken in the recommended dosages. However, some individuals may experience side effects, including:
- Digestive upset
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as those with autoimmune diseases must consult their healthcare provider before self-administering Ashwagandha.
SHILAJIT SIDE EFFECTS
Shilajit is also believed safe for many people when they take it using the recommended dosages. However, some individuals may experience side effects, including:
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Increased heart rate
- Pregnant and lactating women as well as those with cardiac issues should avoid the use of Shilajit without consulting their doctor.
ASHWAGANDHA VS SHILAJIT: WHAT TO PICK?
Considering the benefits of Ashwagandha, possible adverse reactions upon its use, benefits of Shilajit and possible side effects of Shilajit we can say that it depends on what is best for you. It tastes much less than Shilajit but a bit more than Ashwagandha, it can help in some cases.
Choose Ashwagandha if:
- You are feeling stress and anxiety
- You want to boost memory and brain function
- You want to boost your immunity
- You want to gain muscle mass and strength
Choose Shilajit if:
- You need to be more invigorated and alive.
- You want better brain health and neuroprotection.
- You want better bone and joint health.
- You want to boost male fertility
It is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are on medications.
CONCLUSION
In overall, Ashwagandha and Shilajit present many health benefits and each of which has its own benefits. Based on the health objectives that are perhaps unique to you and by consultation with your healthcare provider, the recommended choice between the two supplements should be made.
Pay attention that doing scheduled physical activities and following a healthy diet, normal training, and also proper sleep are a foundation of being fit. It works as a complementary and an intensifying mechanism to your health journey with natural supplements such as Ashwagandha or shilajit.
