Shilajit is a pale-brown to black material consisting of decomposed plant and animal material that has been compressed between layers of rock. It can be found in the Himalayan mountains and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, according to Robert Talbert of the California College of Ayurveda. During the summer months, shilajit leaks out from between rocks as temperatures rise. Today extracts of shilajit are used exclusively in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a large number of disorders, including: cardiovascular, immunological, neurological, endocrinological and gastrointestinal diseases. While generally considered safe to use, shilajit extract may interfere with certain processes and medications and as such has several contraindications. Consult your doctor before taking shilajit.

Diabetes

Shilajit is often used in the treatment of diabetes. According to Dr. Michael Hartman, shilajit has been shown to lower blood sugar levels substantially. Diabetic patients need to be aware of this as they may to compensate for this action by lowering their dosages of insulin in order to avoid hypoglycemia. If you have diabetes, consult your health care professional before taking shilajit and/or altering medications.