In the raw form, it is a bituminous substance, eg: a compact mass of vegetable organic matter composed primarily of humus. Humus contains two components: fulvic acid and humic acid. Mineral Pitch, also known as shilajit, has a bitter taste. Indian Yogis have traditionally believed that Shilajit could slow down the aging process. In Sanskrit the literal meaning of Shilajit is "Rock Like", eg: able to withstand the ravages of time. Minerals are necessary for a healthy functioning body. Minerals act as catalysts for metabolic reactions and biological functions within the body's cells and are required for the assimilation of all vitamins. The aging process involves the action of highly reactive free radicals which interact with other cellular compounds and produce oxidative damages. This eventually kills cells, shrinks tissues and impairs the immune function of the organism. Mineral Pitch prevents this from happening.