by Jason |
Last Updated: December 8, 2021 Ashwagandha and Shilajit are both important herbs that have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Both have been shown to have a number of benefits to the human body, including stress relief, better stamina and energy levels, and even memory boosting abilities.
These two herbs are also considered adaptogens, which means that they help the body adapt to its environment.
As mentioned, Shilajit and Ashwagandha do have some similar properties. Both of them are source of minerals, amino acids, and phytonutrients.
They can be used in multiple ways such as supplementing the daily diet with them or using them as a cure for disease. However, there are quite a few ways in which the two substances differ.
Shilajit is a natural resin/tar extract which is commonly found in the rocks and soil of the Himalaya mountains, while Ashwagandha is a natural root extract from the Withania Somnifera plant in regions of Africa and Asia. There is some overlap in the benefits of each, but Shilajit is known for the energy and stamina it can provide to your life, while Ashwagandha is known for its stress and anxiety reduction effects.
The two can be taken together, and some studies have shown an increased benefit of each when both are consumed. Since the positive effects of each differ, it is difficult to classify one as better than the other.
In this post, we will explore the differences between Shilajit and Ashwagandha, additional details about each, and whether or not they can be supplemented together.
Table of Contents
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a natural extract that comes from the rocks and soil of the Himalayan mountains. The composition of those mountains cause the rocks to form a very unique kind of deposit.
This deposit is black in color and has a very sticky, tar-like consistency. Shilajit is formed in almost all the northern parts of the Indian subcontinent.
It has been used as a medicine in ancient Hindu and Ayurvedic texts because of its medicinal and medicinal properties. It has been used to treat joint and bone pain, lower blood sugar levels, treat skin problems, and reduce inflammation.
Shilajit has several active compounds that are thought to be the reason why it works so well.
One of these compounds is Fulvic Acid. Fulvic acid is a natural antioxidant that has been proven to neutralize harmful free radicals that cause oxidative stress in the body. Another great compound is the Quassinoids.
Quassinoids are a class of chemical compounds that have been shown in studies to have powerful antioxidant properties.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is another natural extract that is derived from the roots of the Withania Somnifera plant. Ashwagandha grows in the hills and mountains of the Indian subcontinent.
The root is turned into a supplement that can be consumed by humans for medicinal use. It has a very distinct smell to it and forms a very dark dye when it comes in contact with water.
In ancient Indian texts it is said to be a powerful adaptogen. While it has a long history of use in the Indian subcontinent, it is also becoming more and more popular in the West.
Benefits of Each
Shilajit Benefits
Shilajit has more than 80 different active compounds that offer their own unique benefits.
It is shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and a whole host of other benefits as well.
Some of these include protection against damage from oxidative stress, better physical performance, and better hormonal balance.
Additionally, Shilajit is known to help with energy, endurance, and mood. It has a long list of potential benefits, and has also been shown to be effective when it comes to improving sexual performance.
It can be used to help with joint pain and fatigue too.
Ashwagandha Benefits
There are many possible benefits of Ashwagandha. It has been used for thousands of years to prevent and treat a variety of health problems.
This herb is highly nutritious and contains plenty of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. It is an adaptogen that helps the body cope with the stress of everyday life.
It helps you to remain positive and optimistic. Ashwagandha is also known to aid the body in dealing with anxiety and to relax and remain calm. Ashwagandha helps to strengthen the body and improve overall health.
It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to boost immunity against cancer too.
Dosages For Each
Shilajit Dosage
Shilajit is typically taken in resin, powder, capsule, or liquid form. The dosage ranges from around 375mg to 1500mg a day, depending on the person and the form of the Shilajit.
Higher doses are taken by individuals suffering from joint pain or chronic illnesses such as arthritis, hepatitis, and bronchitis. It can take up to a few months before you notice the full effects of Shilajit.
There is little harm in taking more than the recommended amount, and side effects are uncommon, but you should always consult a holistic medicine professional before incorporating a new substance.
Ashwagandha Dosage
Ashwagandha is typically taken in powdered root form, though capsules and liquid extracts are available. A typical dosage is around 500mg to 2000mg of Ashwagandha per day, depending on your health and age.
Ashwagandha is not just used for stress and anxiety relief, but has many other important health benefits. Higher doses are taken for chronic illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis and neurodegenerative disorders.
It is best to start with the lower dosage to assess your tolerance and to make sure that it is working for you. You should begin to feel the effects in a week or two with daily usage.
You can increase the dosage until you feel the effects, then lower the dosage for maintenance once you achieve your desired level.
Can You Take Them Together?
Supplementing Shilajit and Ashwagandha has been shown to enhance the effects of both of these beneficial substances.
This is the reason why it is so common to see them taken together, and recommended by so many health professionals. Studies have shown that when two effective substances are taken together, the resulting effects are greater than when taking either substance individually.
These two natural substances are both considered adaptogenic and can be taken together for stress and anxiety support.
Shilajit works to enhance your health in a very holistic way, giving your body the energy, focus and endurance it needs to get through your day.
Ashwagandha, which is relaxing and calming, helps you to reduce stress and tension, so that you can relax and destress.
Which One is Better?
It is tough to say whether Shilajit or Ashwagandha is better, since they both offer unique and valuable benefits.
This also means that they have differing side effects and react to individuals differently, so you have to try them both and see which works best for you. Some people respond better to Shilajit, while others prefer Ashwagandha.
Both can be considered strong supplements for brainpower, but Shilajit also helps to increase energy, endurance and overall health.
Personally, I feel the adaptogenic benefits of Shilajit, combined with its energizing properties and ability to regulate cortisol and stress hormones, does seem to make it a slight winner.
It is known as the king of adaptogens for its ability to offer such a wide range of benefits to the body.