What question did this study set out to answer?

To examine how the molecular dynamics of Shilajit vary with geographical origin using low-field NMR relaxometry.

January 21, 2026Reviews in Analytical Chemistry0 citationsOpen Access

Assessment of molecular dynamics in natural Shilajit using low-field NMR relaxometry for geographical traceability

EKElham Kamgar HBHanna Maria Baranowska MKMassoud Kaykhaii

Key Points

To examine how the molecular dynamics of Shilajit vary with geographical origin using low-field NMR relaxometry.
Analyzed twelve Shilajit samples from five different regions (Iran, India, Nepal, Russia, Kyrgyzstan) using low-field NMR at 15 MHz.
Measured longitudinal (T1) and transverse (T2) magnetization relaxation times using inversion-recovery and Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill pulse sequences.
Classified samples into three groups based on distinct relaxation behaviors.
Identified three distinct groups of relaxation behavior in Shilajit samples.
Group I had solid samples with only T1 values, while Group II showed both T1 and T2 in moderately viscous samples.
Group III exhibited biphasic T2 relaxation indicating proton heterogeneity, with significant differences across geographical origins.

Abstract

Abstract Shilajit (Mumijo) is a phytomineral exudate known for its therapeutic potential, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Its molecular composition and consequently its therapeutic properties are influenced by geographical origin. Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF NMR) offers a non-destructive tool to assess the molecular behavior of Shilajit rapidly and non-destructively. Twelve raw Shilajit samples from five regions (Iran, India, Nepal, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan) were analyzed using LF NMR at 15 MHz. Longitudinal magnetization relaxation ( T 1 ) and transverse magnetization relaxation ( T 2 ) relaxation times were measured using an inversion-recovery and Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill pulse sequence, respectively. Three distinct relaxation behavior groups were identified. Group I showed only T 1 (solid samples with undetectable T 2 ), group II exhibited single T 1 and T 2 (moderately viscous, hydrated samples), while group III revealed biphasic T 2 relaxation (indicating proton heterogeneity). Clear differences in relaxation profiles were observed across geographical origins, with Iranian samples showing the widest range of T 1 values, while Russian and some Iranian samples exhibited dual T 2 components. LF NMR relaxation parameters ( T 1 , T 2 ) are strongly dependent on the geographic origin and molecular structure of Shilajit. The technique shows promise for use in authentication and traceability of Shilajit, enabling differentiation based on relaxation signatures.

Ask AI

Helpful

Bookmark

View Full Paper