Shilajit Unveiled: The Myth, Magic, & Misuse of this Mountain Mineral Medicine | Dr Sumit Kesarkar & Vaidya Dr J.R. Raju #144

“There is no curable disease in the universe which has cannot be effectively cured by śilājatu, [but only] when administered at the appropriate time, in combination with suitable herbs and by adopting the prescribed protocol”. ~ Caraka Samhitā, authoritative classical Ayurveda text I’m Dylan Smith, an Ayurveda practitioner and educator, and in case you have not heard of Shilajit, it is one of Ayurveda’s most revered herbal substances. This potent, mineral-rich resin sourced from rocky mountains is rapidly gaining popularity in Western supplement markets for its purported energising and rejuvenating effects. In this episode, we aim to disrupt the growing fad of shilajit as a dietary supplement in wellness communities. We’ll challenge the notion that shilajit—prized in Ayurveda for its potent healing properties—can be casually consumed. Much of what’s sold is adulterated or harvested improperly, and often lacks proper purification. We’ll explore essential Ayurvedic principles like correct dosage, the right vehicle (anupāna), and a tailored diet (pathya) to balance shilajit’s intense qualities and ensure safety and efficacy. When these elements are neglected, shilajit’s benefits can be lost—or even become harmful—underscoring the need for proper guidance in its use. My guests include Dr. Sumit Kesarkar, who has spent over two decades harvesting shilajit indigenously across Asia, and the renowned Raju family of Ayurvedic doctors: Vaidya J.R. Raju, Vaidya Pavani Raju, and Vaidya Harsha Raju. Together, we’ll offer practical insights on sourcing authenticity, safe usage, and time-tested ways to honour shilajit’s role as a powerful rasayana. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: 🏔️ Shilajit’s Geological Formations and Origin 🏔️ Understanding Shilajit as a Rasāyana (longevity elixir) In Ayurveda 🏔️ Shilajit"s Health Benefits & Debunking the Overemphasis on Mineral Content 🏔️ Proper Purification of Shilajit (not common knowledge) 🏔️ Prevalence of Adulteration, Unsustainable & Improper Harvesting Methods 🏔️ Appropriate Dosage to Absorb the Benefits and Prevent Harm 🏔️ Diet & Protocol to Adhere to While Consuming Shilajit 🏔️ + more! RESOURCES:Abhyanga Course w/ Vital VedaTraining in External Basti Treatments w/ Vital VedaMarma & Pulse Retreat w/ the Raju FamilyShilajit, Can It Keep Us Young Forever? –  Dr. KesarkarBook a Consultation with Dylan Related Podcast Episodes:Coffee, Whisky & Lord Shiva | Dr. Sumit Kesarkar #104Organic Herbal Revolution & Prana Potent Herbs | Bharat Mitra #057The Yoga of Time, Vedic Medicine & Veda Mandala (#059) Support the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website