A survey on supply status of Shilajatu (Asphaltum Punjabinum) its sources, processing media and cost in India

Abstract

Introduction: Survey studies are used as a tool to analyze and explore human knowledge and practices in reference to a particular attribute. It is also used to assess the status of raw materials, drugs, etc. In the market to find out price variation, quality, adulteration, etc. It comprises a variety of data collection techniques with the most common being questionnaires and interviews. Ayurvedic medicines and products got a huge surge in its demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Shilajatu is one such drug whose increased worldwide consumption leads to scarcity, replacing with substitutes or adulterants to the sample and, in turn, compromising the quality, safety, and efficacy of the products. A current survey study has been planned to document the different aspects pertaining to Shilajatu, i.e., availability status, price, etc. Methodology: A questionnaire comprising open- and closed ended questions was designed and a survey (face-to-face interview) was conducted at preidentified major supply markets of Shilajatu in India. Results: A wide range of variation in price/kg of Shilajatu has been found in the study. It has been revealed that the major supply of Shilajatu in India is from Nepal, commonly used processing media is water, and trading cost ranges between Rs. 350 to Rs. 2200/kg and Rs. 1500 to Rs. 10,000/kg for Ashuddha and Shuddha Shilajatu, respectively. Conclusion: The present study provides comprehensive data pertaining to supply sources, type, price, processing media, and availability of Shilajatu in India and emphasizes the urgent need of strict regulatory provisions for crucial drugs such as Shilajatu.