Rasayana or rejuvenator in Ayurvedic remedy, shilajit is the best supplement this traditional system recommends for overall wellness. Among many systems of the body it works its magic on, the excretory system is also included- where the kidney plays the role of the primary organ.
But when it comes to kidney stones, does shilajit really play the role of a healer/ helper or not? Here, we will explore whether it's okay to use shilajit in the context of kidney stones or if caution is needed while using it for this specific purpose.
By the end of the article, you will be able to make an informed decision on whether to use it or not for kidney stones and understand the precautions to make a safe use of shilajit.
Understanding Kidney Stones
Kidneys are responsible for filtering blood, to make it pure. The waste products they are supposed to filter out especially salt and minerals, if not fully eliminated, can cause kidney stones. In general, around one in ten individuals is known to suffer from kidney stone once in their lifetime.
The early treatment can be effective in easing the healing process, causing stones to pass out early without causing many health complications. But if it's not cured on time, the patient has to suffer from extreme pain and even greater issues like a blockage of urine flow can show up.
Common Types and How Do They Form
An optimally functioning kidney results in a balance of salt, minerals and water inside the body. If only a small disturbance occurs on this, then salt and minerals would deposit on the kidney parts, including the tubules.
Some commonly reported kidney stone types include:
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Calcium oxalate stone: most common type, calcium oxalate crystals
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Uric acid stone: common in people consuming a high-protein diet
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Calcium phosphate stone, Struvite stone, Cystine stone and others
Conventional Treatment Approaches
There are multiple conventional systems our ancestors relied on and all of them have specific ways to reduce or treat kidney stones. The well-known ones; Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine and others around the globe focused on use of herbs and different therapies for the treatment before the modern medicinal system was even born.
Talking about Ayurveda, it made use of shilajit to improve kidney health. It was popular because:
→ It strengthened the urinary system.
→ It supported kidneys and bladder.
→ It’s a natural detoxifier.
Myths vs Facts- Is Shilajit Good For Kidney Stones?
Shilajit has been mistakenly believed to have a role in causing kidney stones because it contains more than 85+ minerals. But kidney problems are not directly linked to shilajit! The minerals in this natural supplement are present in a minimal amount and if the dose of consumption is proper, that limited amount won’t be just enough to cause kidney stones.
Moreover, shilajit is also a diuretic, a property that increases the frequency of urine production. So, if the body is properly hydrated, it will only help flush out all the toxins and mineral remnants from the body.
Shilajit in the traditional system is known to benefit the urinary system’s defenses as well as its function, and if other dietary factors are kept in mind, there is a very small chance that shilajit would contribute to the formation of a kidney stone.
DID YOU KNOW?
In ancient texts, shilajit is described as “mutravaha strotas” meaning urinary tract tonic that keeps urine flow consistent, helping in detoxification and is also on the list of “Ashmarighna dravyas” which means a substance that helps to expel or dissolve the kidney stones.
Diet support
Being a nutrient-rich supplement, it’s a wise decision for anyone on a shilajit routine to also maintain a proper diet. Just some additions to your daily meals and you are helping your body to have a balance of all the nutrients, hence preventing the risk of stone formation.
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Fruits and vegetables: Most of the fruits and vegetables are around 80% water. Adding them as a natural source of hydration can support easy flushing of excess salts and minerals thereby preventing the buildup of stones.
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Alkalizing foods: An acidic environment is linked to the process of certain types of kidney stones, as it can trigger crystals' formation. Alkalizing foods like leafy greens and cucumbers can easily balance the pH, once you add such foods to your daily diet, the environment will gradually be less favorable for stone formation.
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Drinks: When you are consuming shilajit, sticking to a properly hydrating routine becomes vital to prevent overloading of minerals on the kidneys. A sufficient amount of drinks alone can be a great way to clear the system and to burden the kidneys.
Who Should Be Careful?
Though shilajit is known to support kidney function, the following people should always be conscious about the consumption of shilajit and need to inquire medically before use:
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People with chronic kidney disease/ kidney stones
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People with diuretics or medications
Also, long-term use without monitoring is not recommended.
Conclusion
Shilajit Nepal is the best natural supplement for overall health including kidney function. Its mineral constituents are not so high as to lead to kidney stones if taken in a proper dose and added to that, a proper diet also matters a lot. However, people with already existing kidney abnormalities or idney stones should be wary about the use and always take a medical consultation before starting the dose.
FAQs
Q: Does shilajit affect the kidneys?
A: Shilajit positively supports kidney function. However, it has no direct side effects related to the kidneys.
Q: Can shilajit break up kidney stones?
A: There is no evidence that shilajit breaks up kidney stones. Shilajit is a natural supplement to be used only to support body functions; it has no role in treating any medical conditions.
Q: Is shilajit good for a kidney stone patient?
A: Shilajit’s mineral content is what makes its use concerning for kidney stone patients. It’s always recommended to take medical consultation before adding to the diet of such individuals.
Q: Can shilajit affect kidney function?
A: Shilajit supports all the body functions including the excretory system. Its constituents make it a mutravaha srotas, a tonic that supports filtration, detoxification and overall kidney function.
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