Shilajit
Asphaltum punjabianum (mineral pitch)
A sticky resin that oozes from Himalayan rocks, rich in fulvic acid and minerals. Used in Ayurveda as a rejuvenator, with preliminary human evidence for testosterone support, fatigue, and exercise recovery.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a blackish-brown, tar-like resin that exudes from cracks in rocks across the Himalayas, Altai, Caucasus, and other high mountain ranges, formed over centuries from the slow decomposition of plant material. In Ayurvedic medicine it is classified as a rasayana (rejuvenator) and is prized as a carrier that enhances the effects of other herbs. Its defining constituents are fulvic and humic acids along with a broad spectrum of trace minerals.
Known Health Benefits
How It Works
Shilajit's bioactivity is largely attributed to fulvic acid, a low-molecular-weight compound that acts as an antioxidant and may improve mitochondrial function by supporting electron transport and CoQ10 activity, helping cells produce ATP more efficiently. Dibenzo-alpha-pyrones appear to stabilize CoQ10 in its active ubiquinol form. Fulvic acid also chelates and shuttles minerals across cell membranes, improving micronutrient bioavailability. Preliminary research suggests shilajit modulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which may explain observed effects on testosterone, and exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects relevant to fatigue and recovery.
What Research Says
Human data remain limited but promising. A 2016 trial by Pandit et al. in Andrologia found that 250 mg of purified shilajit twice daily for 90 days significantly increased total and free testosterone in healthy men aged 45–55 compared with placebo. A 2012 study reported improved spermatogenesis and sperm count in infertile men. Research on CoQ10 stabilization and mitochondrial energy supports traditional use for fatigue, though large, independent trials are lacking. Most evidence is small, single-site, or industry-funded, placing shilajit in the preliminary evidence tier.
Active Compounds
Fulvic acid, humic acid, dibenzo-alpha-pyrones, trace minerals
Forms & Bioavailability
Fulvic acid is highly water-soluble and absorbs readily. Resin forms are dissolved in warm water or milk before use. Purification (shodhana) is essential to remove heavy metals and contaminants — bioavailability and safety both depend heavily on product quality and third-party testing.
Dosage Guidance
| Use Case | Dosage |
|---|---|
| General vitality | 250–500 mg purified daily |
| Testosterone support | 250 mg twice daily |
| Fatigue / energy | 300–500 mg daily |
Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing.
Potential Side Effects
Purified shilajit is generally well tolerated. Raw or unpurified shilajit can contain heavy metals, fungi, or free radicals and should never be used. May lower blood pressure or alter iron levels at high doses.
Who Should Avoid It
- Hemochromatosis or iron overload (shilajit raises iron)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient data)
- Active gout or high uric acid (theoretical)
- Never use raw/unpurified shilajit
Pregnancy & Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to lack of safety data and the risk of heavy-metal contamination in lower-quality products.
Known Drug Interactions
May increase iron levels (caution with hemochromatosis or iron supplements), may add to blood-pressure-lowering and antidiabetic medications.
Evidence Classification
Based on in vitro studies, animal models, pilot trials, or traditional use documentation. Clinical evidence is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does shilajit actually raise testosterone?
One placebo-controlled trial in men aged 45–55 found a significant increase in total and free testosterone after 90 days of 250 mg purified shilajit twice daily. The finding is encouraging but comes from limited research, so shilajit should be considered a supportive option rather than a proven testosterone treatment.
Is shilajit safe?
Purified, third-party-tested shilajit is generally safe at recommended doses. Raw or unpurified shilajit is a real concern because it can contain heavy metals, mycotoxins, and free radicals. Only use products that disclose purification and heavy-metal testing.
What is fulvic acid?
Fulvic acid is a small organic molecule formed during the breakdown of plant matter. It acts as an antioxidant and mineral carrier, and it is considered the primary active component responsible for shilajit's effects on energy and nutrient absorption.
References
- Clinical evaluation of purified shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. Pandit S, Biswas S, Jana U, et al.. Andrologia (2016)View study
- Shilajit: a review. Carrasco-Gallardo C, Guzmán L, Maccioni RB. Phytother Res (2012)View study
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This entry is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.