Shilajit vs Ashwagandha: Which One Is Better For Your Health? A Scientific Comparison
By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Apr 22, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Apr 22, 2024Table of Contents
Both Shilajit and Ashwagandha are adaptogenic herbs having long been valued in Ayurvedic medicine. However, many get puzzled due to their overlapping benefits. With this detailed scrutiny of Shilajit and Ashwagandha, we aim to remove the confusion. With this article, we will help you understand their differences, similar advantages, and distinct features. We will delve deep into the roots, history, nutritional facts, common potential health benefits, and unique traits of Shilajit and Ashwagandha. We will also go through all possible side effects, drug interactions, and tips on how to zero in on the right supplement for you. Equipped with this information, you can make an informed choice.
Did you know?
Both Shilajit and Ashwagandha have deep roots in Ayurvedic medicine. However, they come from different sources. Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like substance found in ancient rocks from the Himalayas, Altai, and Caucasus mountains. Over time, plant decay forms this herbal compound. For thousands of years, Shilajit has been valued for tackling fatigue, anxiety, inflammation, and more.
Ashwagandha on the other hand is not derived from rocks but a shrub that’s native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Known also as Withania somnifera, Indian ginseng, or winter cherry, it’s used to combat stress, anxiety, sleeplessness, and fertility issues in traditional medicine.
There are significant differences in their nutritional makeup. Shilajit is full of fulvic and humic acids, said to deliver many potential health benefits. It’s got an impressive list of minerals, amino acids, and vitamins. On the other side, Ashwagandha owes its potential benefits due to withanolides, alkaloids, sterols, saponins, and other bioactive ingredients.
Despite their different origins and components, some potential health benefits overlap. Both Shilajit and Ashwagandha are said to balance our body’s response to all kinds of stress, be it emotional, physical, or environmental. They both are proposed to support immunity and improve memory and cognition.
Here we are discussing the properties unique to Ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha may help in cases of sleep problems. It is said to calm the nervous system, promoting restful sleep and reducing anxiety.
Ashwagandha might help in reproductive issues. Studies suggest it may improve sexual function, fertility, and balance hormones.
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The unique benefits of Shilajit are as follows.
It is proposed to support hormone health in me especially. It balances hormone levels and plays a vital role in boosting natural testosterone.
The herb is said to promote oxygenation, reducing altitude problems like dizziness and nausea.
In my opinion, if taken for no more than three months, ashwagandha might be safe. However, Ashwagandha preparations have been known to potentially induce sleepiness, upset stomach, diarrhoea, and vomiting in certain people.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D
Also Read: Shilajit: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects By Dr. Anuja Bodhare
Like all supplements, Shilajit and Ashwagandha might have a few side effects and interactions.
While Ashwagandha is generally safe, high doses may lead to diarrhea, nausea, and dizziness. Some individuals may be allergic. It might also interact with specific drugs. Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Shilajit can also cause side effects like dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea in some people. Allergic reactions may also occur. As with Ashwagandha concerns, consult your healthcare provider before starting a Shilajit regimen. Do not self-medicate in any situation.
After exploring shared and unique benefits, as well as potential side effects, in this section, we will discuss how you may decide which one is better for you. Also, remember to always keep your doctor in the loop as they can provide guidance in making the right choice.
Both may offer robust potential health benefits. However, your choice depends on your health goals, consumption preferences, and tolerance to potential side effects.
Their non-contradicting properties might offer synergistic effects benefiting your overall health. Always remember, though, to be safe and seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting a combined regimen.
Researchers believe that certain medications, such as those for diabetes and high blood pressure, immune system suppressants (drugs that weaken the immune system’s reaction), sedatives, anticonvulsants (drugs that prevent seizures), and thyroid hormone supplements, may interact with ashwagandha.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Also Read: Shilajit Benefits for Male: Exploring Research-Based Advantages for Men’s Health
The choice between Shilajit and Ashwagandha lies with your health goals, preferences, and tolerance. Both herbs are proposed to have unique benefits and shared ones too, like stress reduction, immune support, cognitive improvement, and hormone balance. Neither is inherently better than the other and combining both may offer all-around health benefits. Always remember to seek advice from your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
Also Read: Ashwagandha Benefits for Females: Enhancing Health with Research-Based Insights
Yes, you can take them together. Their benefits complement each other, and they don’t contradict. But as always, check with your healthcare professional before starting a combination of the two.
Both have a positive impact on brain health, but their approaches differ. Shilajit is proposed to boost brain health with essential minerals, while Ashwagandha may help with stress and mental clarity.
While there’s limited evidence linking them directly to weight loss, their beneficial effects on stress reduction, hormone balance, and overall vitality might indirectly support weight loss or maintenance. Always consult your doctor before starting these remedies. Do not self-medicate.
The dosages for both may vary depending on individual needs, form of product, and its source. Usually, Shilajit ranges from 100-500mg, and Ashwagandha ranges from 300-1000mg. Do consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosage advice. Do not self-medicate.
Potential risks exist, especially for pregnant, nursing women, or those taking specific medications. It’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement regimen. Do not self-medicate.
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