Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Arthritic Efficacy and Safety of Purified Shilajit in Moderately Arthritic Dogs

Abstract

The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of purified Shilajit in moderately arthritic dogs. Ten client-owned dogs in a randomized double-blinded study received either a placebo or Shilajit (500 mg) twice daily for a period of five months. Dogs were evaluated each month for physical condition (body weight, body temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate) and pain associated with arthritis (overall pain, pain from limb manipulation, and pain after physical exertion). Serum samples collected from these dogs were examined each month for biomarkers of liver (bilirubin, ALT, and AST), kidney (BUN and creatinine) heart and muscle (creatine kinase) functions. The findings of this study revealed that dogs receiving Shilajit (Group-II) showed a significant (P< 0.05) reduction in pain from limb manipulation by day 60, and overall pain and pain after physical exertion by day 120. Maximum pain reduction, using all three criteria, was observed on day 150. Pain level remained significantly unchanged in dogs receiving the placebo. Dogs in either group showed no significant change (P>0.05) in physical parameters or serum markers, suggesting that Shilajit was well tolerated by moderately arthritic dogs. It was concluded that Shilajit significantly (P< 0.05) reduced pain in osteoarthritic dogs and markedly improved their daily life without any side effects.