Shilajit, a sticky, tar-like resin derived from the Himalayas, is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine. Recent years have popularized this strong natural remedy, now known as natural viagra, in boosting vitality and testosterone levels with claims of generally improved reproductive health. But what exactly does it do, and can it replace treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) or low libido?

Shilajit is a blackish-brown, centuries-old substance that is formed by the decomposition of plant matter under intense pressure and heat in the Himalayas. Rich in minerals, fulvic acid, and bioactive compounds, this ancient remedy is known for rejuvenating the body and mind. Ayurvedic traditions hail it as "the healer of all weaknesses," with its therapeutic potential extending far beyond just sexual health.

According to Ayurvedic consultant Dr. Chaitali Deshmukh, Shilajit acts on the cellular powerhouse, which is the mitochondria. High fulvic acid content increases energy production, combats fatigue, and supports cellular repair. However, what makes Shilajit so interesting is its potential to increase testosterone levels, which is vital for male libido, stamina, and reproductive health.

Does Shilajit Help with Erectile Dysfunction and Low Libido?

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is affecting about 30 million males in the United States, with psychological causes ranging from stress and trauma to physiological causes like diabetes and nerve damage. Pharmaceuticals, such as Viagra, immediately help the client but often direct symptoms rather than the cause. Shilajit, however, is holistic and improves hormonal balance, circulation, and energy levels.

A clinical study revealed that men who received a twice-daily dose of Shilajit for 90 days had highly increased testosterone levels and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). DHEA is another significant hormone with crucial effects on the growth of muscles, sexual performance, and overall power. Increased levels of testosterone restore libido but can also alleviate some of the symptoms, such as lower sperm count and weakness.

How Shilajit Enhances Your Sexual Health and Libido?

The benefits from Shilajit go well beyond testosterone-boosting. It facilitates blood circulation as well as its delivery of oxygen to tissues for erection and penile rigidity. Moreover, its adaptogenic properties help counteract stress from the body system, which will otherwise cause upsets in hormones and worsen ED.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the resin play a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and enhancing immune function. Detoxifying the body and promoting nutrient absorption, Shilajit contributes to overall health, further supporting physical and mental well-being. While Shilajit is known for its aphrodisiac qualities, its health benefits are much more than that: Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce joint pain and promote mobility.

Rich in antioxidants, Shilajit decelerates cellular aging and preserves youthful energy. It supports better digestion and nutrient absorption that fuels the body more efficiently. Shilajit supports hormonal stability by helping the body adapt to physical and emotional stress.

Unlike pharmaceutical alternatives that may only yield short-term results, Shilajit actually attacks the root cause of sexual dysfunction. Its natural composition ensures that it impacts energy levels, hormonal health, and reproductive function with a gentle yet profound effect. For many, this holistic approach is what earns it the title 'Nature's Viagra'.

According to Dr. Chaitali, Ayurvedic practices have Shilajit combined with other herbs in order to magnify its effect. It would lead to noticeable improvements in the vitality, libido, and overall quality of life if taken under professional guidance.

What Precautions You Must Follow While Consuming Shilajit?

Despite its numerous benefits, it’s essential to approach Shilajit with caution. The resin isn’t FDA-approved, and research on its long-term effects remains limited. Additionally, not all Shilajit products on the market are genuine, with some containing harmful additives or contaminants. Consulting a healthcare provider before incorporating Shilajit into your routine is crucial, especially for those with underlying health conditions or those taking medication.

For those seeking a natural solution to enhance vigor and vitality, Shilajit offers a compelling option rooted in centuries of Ayurvedic wisdom. Its ability to address the root causes of issues like ED, low libido, and fatigue sets it apart from quick fixes. Whether you’re looking to boost testosterone, improve physical performance, or simply enhance your overall health, Shilajit provides a comprehensive, natural approach to wellness.

However, as with any supplement, balance and moderation are key. Pairing Shilajit with a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and regular exercise can maximize its benefits, helping you unlock your body's full potential.

Can You Take Shilajit Without Doctor Advice?

It is important to seek advice from a healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your regimen. This ensures that the supplement and its dosage are tailored to your unique health needs and circumstances.

At present, there is no scientifically established standard or universally appropriate dose of Shilajit. Most research studies on Shilajit used different amounts of the substance under medical supervision. However, without such guidelines, more research will be needed to establish specific dosages for health goals and various population groups

The reputation of Shilajit as natural viagra is very well-deserved, offering a holistic and natural way to rejuvenate both body and mind. From boosting testosterone to enhancing physical and mental resilience, this ancient resin delivers far-reaching benefits. While more research is needed to confirm its long-term efficacy, Shilajit stands out as a promising remedy for those looking to rediscover their vitality naturally. Always consult an expert before starting supplementation to ensure safe and effective use.

Dr Chaitali Deshmukh is an Ayurvedic consultant at Birla Ayurveda in India.

Review on shilajit used in traditional Indian medicine. J of Ethnopharmacology. 2011

Clinical evaluation of purified Shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. Andrologia. 2016

Definition & Facts for Erectile Dysfunction. NIH

Rich in healthy fats, insoluble fiber and many vitamins as well as protein, avocados are known for being one of the highest-fat based plant foods. According to the Nutrition Source they are a great source of fiber and are notably high in healthy fats (more than carbohydrates), making them popular in lower-carbohydrate diets, such as those for managing diabetes.

Their heart-friendly fats don't raise blood cholesterol, which can make traditional cholesterol-lowering diets more satisfying. As one of the highest-fat plant foods, avocados are also a favorite in vegan and vegetarian diets. Many nutritionists suggest people eat avocados for weight loss, however does it actually help? How does a fruit with a high calorie count as well as 67% fat content, be good for weight loss.

We spoke to Anshul Singh, Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Department Lead, Artemis Hospitals

to understand the nutritional nuances of avocado.

Avocados Help You Feel Full Longer

Mr. Anshul explained that foods with good fats and fiber make you feel full and content. They slow down how quickly food leaves your stomach. Since avocados are rich in both, they keep you satisfied longer. One study showed people eating avocado for breakfast felt less hungry. "They also have healthy fats, like monounsaturated fats, which may help the body break down fat and lose belly fat. People who eat avocados tend to have better diets and weigh less."

Support Weight Management

Research shows people who eat more fruits and vegetables, including avocados, often have lower body weights. A big study found avocado eaters tended to have healthier diets and a lower risk of certain health issues. This suggests avocados fit well into a healthy eating plan. There's no need to avoid them if you're trying to manage your weight; in fact, regular eaters were less likely to become overweight. "People felt less hungry and more satisfied for hours when they replaced carbs with avocado fats and fiber. This was mostly because hormones like PYY and GLP-1 make you feel full. Adding just half an avocado to lunch made people 23% more satisfied and 40% less hungry over the course of three hours, even though the meal had more calories." says Mr Anshul

Avocados Might Help with Weight Loss

It's not fully clear if avocados directly cause weight loss, but they may help. The healthy fats in avocados might be burned for energy faster and could even increase your body's calorie burning after meals. According to Mr. Anshul, "Nuts and yogurt are good for you, but avocado is more filling and has fewer calories and no added sugar or salt. It feels like a treat without the guilt because it's creamy, healthy, and light. Avocado might be the tastiest way to stay on track when you want to snack smart and reach your goals." They may also reduce your appetite, making you less likely to overeat. However, more research is needed to fully understand these specific effects.

Avocados and Belly Fat

Some early studies suggest avocados could help with weight loss, especially targeting belly fat. One study showed people eating a daily avocado as part of a reduced-calorie diet lost weight and had changes in gut bacteria. Another found daily avocado consumption led to significant belly fat loss. Animal studies hint that even avocado extract, without fat, might help reduce appetite and weight gain.

Are Avocados "Fattening"?

Don't worry about avocados being "fattening." When eaten as part of a balanced diet with whole, healthy foods, they're beneficial. Avocados have many qualities that support weight management. While more evidence is building, there are strong signs they can help. Mr Anshul warns, "Avocados are very nutritious, but if you don't pair them well, they can lose their benefits or upset your stomach. Don't mix them with heavy dairy, sugary fruits like mango or banana, or salty processed snacks. These combinations can make you feel bloated, make the flavors clash, or raise your blood sugar levels." Enjoying avocados in reasonable amounts can certainly be a valuable part of an effective weight loss plan.

He closes the statement with a few avocado friendly food pairings for people who are trying to lose weight. " Instead, eat avocado with whole grains, lean proteins, fresh veggies, citrus vinaigrette, or nuts to keep its creamy, healthy edge. This will make it taste light and easy to digest."

Soybeans are widely celebrated for their high protein content, especially among those on plant-based diets. But beyond being a protein powerhouse, soybeans also contain a wealth of nutrients and bioactive compounds that play a vital role in maintaining liver health.

With rising concerns around fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver-related conditions, including soybeans in your diet could be a simple, natural step toward better liver function. Here’s how this humble legume works to support one of the body’s most important organs.

A Natural Source of Liver-Supporting Protein

One cup of boiled soybeans (about 172 grams) offers roughly 31 grams of protein. The main proteins in soybeans—glycinin and conglycinin—account for around 80% of that content. These aren’t just for building muscle; they support lipid metabolism and enzyme activity, two processes that are central to how the liver breaks down fats, regulates hormones, and processes nutrients.

Additionally, these proteins provide essential amino acids that are critical for the repair and regeneration of liver cells. This helps ensure the liver continues to perform its detoxifying functions efficiently.

Reduces Liver Damage

Soybeans are rich in isoflavones, plant-based compounds known for their antioxidant effects. These antioxidants work to reduce oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to liver cell injury and long-term liver damage.

Isoflavones also help regulate apoptosis—the process of programmed cell death—which is essential for removing damaged cells but harmful when it happens excessively. By balancing this process, soy isoflavones help protect healthy liver cells from being destroyed.

Improves Fat Metabolism in the Liver

Another liver-friendly compound found in soybeans is lecithin. Lecithin plays an essential role in the breakdown and transport of fats, helping the liver manage its fat content more effectively. It boosts the formation of lipoproteins, which help move fat out of the liver and through the bloodstream, thereby reducing the risk of fatty liver disease.

Research has also shown that soy lecithin can lower total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while increasing HDL (“good”) cholesterol, further easing the burden on the liver. In addition, lecithin contributes to the regeneration of cell membranes and helps prevent liver fibrosis, a condition where liver tissue becomes scarred.

Combats Inflammation

Soybeans also contain saponins, plant compounds with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds help protect liver cells from toxic substances such as carbon tetrachloride and acetaldehyde—a harmful byproduct of alcohol metabolism that can lead to liver scarring and cirrhosis.

By neutralizing these toxins, saponins act as a shield for liver cells, preserving their structure and function.

Boosts Overall Liver Function

• Soybeans are a natural source of vitamins E, K, and B6, all of which are vital for liver health.
• Vitamin E protects the liver from oxidative damage.
• Vitamin K supports bile production and blood clotting.
• Vitamin B6 is essential for protein metabolism and enzyme function.
• These nutrients contribute to the liver’s ability to process waste, metabolize nutrients, and regulate energy.

Lifestyle Matters, Too

While soybeans can offer excellent support for liver health, they work best as part of a balanced lifestyle. Limiting alcohol intake, avoiding smoking, eating plenty of vegetables and lean proteins, staying physically active, and going for regular health checkups all enhance liver function.

Some natural herbal extracts like milk thistle (silybum marianum) and wasabia extract have also been studied for their ability to support detoxification and improve liver resilience.

Fatty liver disease is increasingly common worldwide, and while it may start off without noticeable symptoms, ignoring it can lead to serious complications. The liver plays a vital role in processing nutrients, detoxifying the body, and managing fat. When fat accumulates in liver cells faster than it can be metabolized, it can disrupt these crucial functions—potentially leading to hepatitis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer if left untreated.

Fortunately, fatty liver in its early stages is often benign and reversible. Through a combination of medical care and simple but consistent lifestyle changes, many people can manage or even reverse the condition. One of the most important lifestyle changes? Your diet.

Experts emphasize that reducing the intake of certain foods can significantly slow or even stop the progression of fatty liver disease. Here are four food groups that should be limited or avoided if you’re managing this condition.

Sugary Foods

Consuming too much sugar—especially added sugars—can be particularly harmful for people with fatty liver. Excess sugar contributes to weight gain, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, all of which are major risk factors for liver fat buildup.

When your body consumes more calories than it can use for energy, it stores the surplus as fat, particularly in the form of triglycerides. If these triglycerides aren’t broken down efficiently, they begin to collect in the liver. Furthermore, a sugar-rich diet can cause insulin resistance. When this happens, your body produces more insulin, which can further encourage fat storage in the liver.

People with fatty liver or high blood sugar should limit desserts like cakes, ice cream, candies, and sugary beverages. Even fruits high in natural sugar—such as lychees, grapes, bananas, and apples—should be consumed in moderation.

Fried and High-Cholesterol Foods

Fried foods and items rich in cholesterol may seem indulgent, but they can be a direct hit to your liver. These include animal fats, red and processed meats, organ meats, egg yolks, butter, cheese, sausages, and bacon.

Diets high in these foods raise LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, which adds extra stress on the liver. They also increase overall fat deposits in the body, exacerbating fatty liver disease.

Instead, opt for heart- and liver-friendly alternatives like using plant-based oils (olive or canola), increasing your intake of leafy green vegetables, and incorporating fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel into your meals. These fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help reduce liver fat.

High-Sodium and Processed Foods

Too much salt can quietly worsen fatty liver disease. Pickled vegetables, canned goods, fast foods, and processed snacks are often loaded with sodium. Consuming these regularly can increase water retention, blood pressure, and fat accumulation in the liver.

Excessive salt intake has also been linked to higher leptin levels (a hormone involved in fat storage), inflammation, and insulin resistance—all of which contribute to liver damage over time.

To protect your liver, aim to keep daily salt intake under 6 grams. Try flavoring your meals with herbs, spices, and lemon juice instead of relying on salt, soy sauce, or other sodium-heavy seasonings.

Refined Carbohydrates

Foods like white rice, white bread, crackers, instant noodles, and rice cakes may not taste sweet, but they break down quickly into sugars in the body. This leads to insulin spikes and, eventually, increased fat storage in the liver.

Choosing whole grains instead—such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, oats, and quinoa—can provide your body with fiber, improve digestion, and help regulate blood sugar levels. These changes can go a long way in easing the liver’s workload and reducing fat accumulation.