Known as the “black gold of the Himalayas,” Shilajit, or mumijo, is a brownish-black substance found in the mountains of central Asia with a peculiar, smoky-aromatic smell, reminiscent of the oils of various juniper plants. Taken internally in the form of capsules, tablets, or powder, Shilajit is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy with remarkable healing benefits that are only just beginning to be studied by Western doctors and scientists.

In this full-colour practical guide, Wolfgang Windmann, Ph.D., explores Shilajit’s many physical and mental benefits, from stimulating the immune system and combating inflammation to protection from toxic stress and improving cognitive performance. He looks at Shilajit’s anti-aging benefits and the protection it can offer for a sensitive stomach and gut. He explores its history as a therapeutic treatment in different healing traditions throughout Asia, including its use in Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and Russian folk medicine, and how it is now readily available around the world.

Offering a scientific analysis of the compounds found in Shilajit, the author explains how it is formed and extracted and how it is composed of many cell-protecting, antioxidant, and vitalising substances, including many minerals and amino acids. He explores how Shilajit can be used for prevention and specific treatment, including for bone fractures, osteoporosis, stomach and gut diseases, mineral deficiencies, impotence, allergies, and dementia, as well as to improve mental focus and performance.

Detailing how to use Shilajit for self-care and self-healing, this guide also looks at its different forms and dosages and how to combine it with other health supplements to enhance its extraordinary benefits for the immune system and for counteracting the harmful effects of modern lifestyles.