Shilajit
Research Reliability -
A mineral-rich resin from Himalayan rock layers, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for vitality and hormonal support.
Appetite
Mood
Sleep
Shilajit
Description
Shilajit is a tar-like resin formed over centuries from decomposed plant matter compressed in high-altitude rock, rich in fulvic acid and over 80 trace minerals. Its fulvic acid content is the primary research focus, studied for enhancing nutrient absorption, supporting mitochondrial ATP production, and acting as an antioxidant carrier molecule. Small human trials have shown modest testosterone increases in healthy men, which, combined with its traditional reputation as a vitality tonic, has made it a popular addition to male hormonal-support stacks. Purity varies enormously between vendors — heavy metal contamination is a documented risk, so third-party testing matters more here than with most supplements.
Effects
First 2 weeks
subtle
Weeks 2–4
Ongoing
How It Feels
Gentle and gradual; over a few weeks some notice steadier energy and drive. Its mineral-rich makeup means source purity is critical, since low-quality shilajit can carry heavy metals. Buy only tested, reputable products.
Evidence
Evidence Strength
Preliminary (limited / small human data)
Caveats
Trials are small; quality and purity of shilajit products vary considerably by source, which matters given known heavy-metal contamination risk in unpurified shilajit.
Usage
Commonly Referenced Starting Amount
250 mg purified extract/day
Commonly Referenced Amount
250–500 mg/day purified extract covers the small existing human trials
Referenced Upper Limit
No upper limit has been established. Worth flagging: unpurified shilajit carries real heavy-metal contamination risk, so source and purification matter more than dose here, and the energy/testosterone claims rest mostly on small, often industry-affiliated studies
Onset
2–4 weeks
Biomarkers to Track
Subjective
(Daily)
Energy and stamina (1–10)
Libido and vitality
Exercise recovery
Objective
(Quarterly)
Total and free testosterone
Ferritin and iron panel (given mineral content)
Heavy metal panel (for the product, before first use)
Safe only if properly purified. Raw or cheap shilajit can carry heavy metals.
Pregnant women, people with hemochromatosis (it contains iron), and anyone without a tested product.
Buying unpurified or unverified shilajit, and ignoring the source entirely.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.
Pandit S et al. (2016). Andrologia, 48(5), 570-575. RCT (purified shilajit and testosterone in healthy volunteers). PMID: 26395129.
MORE SUPPLEMENTS LIKE THIS
