Shilajit benefits may range from, increasing fertility to supporting bone health. Some evidence suggests that shilajit has antioxidant and inflammatory properties. Shilajit has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine in Nepal and India for many years. However, the safety and potential side effects of shilajit supplements are relatively unknown due to a lack of human research. Talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting a shilajit supplement.¹²³

This inorganic mineral is also known as mumiyo or mumie. Shilajit is found in the Himalayan mountains and mountainous regions in Russia, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. This naturally occurring, blackish-brown resin contains over 40 minerals and substances, most notably fulvic acid.⁴

What is Shilajit

Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that oozes from the rocks of the Himalayas and other mountain ranges. It is packed with bioactive compounds, including fulvic acid, humic acid, Himalayan Shilajit Gummies, and over 85 trace minerals, making it a powerful natural supplement. As a supplement, shilajit is known for its wide array of potential health benefits.

Shilajit Benefits

1. Can Raise Testosterone Levels

Shilajit may increase male fertility by boosting key hormones. Research has shown that taking 500 milligrams (mg) of shilajit per day can significantly increase dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) and total testosterone levels.²

2. Has Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

Shilajit has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In Ayurvedic medicine, the compound is thought to promote greater longevity and have anti-aging properties. These benefits can support overall health and reduce the risk of certain conditions.³

Research has shown that shilajit may also:⁵

• Increase cell turnover
• Potentially encourage the body to produce more collagen
• Slow down oxidative stress

3. Has Been Shown To Reduce Stress

Some evidence suggests that shilajit may reduce stress. This mineral acts as an adaptogenic, meaning it can help the body adapt to stressful situations.⁶

Keep in mind that most studies on the effects of shilajit on stress have been conducted on animals. More human research is needed to understand how supplementation can affect stress fully.

4. Helps Fight Viral Infections

Research has shown that fulvic acid, which is a compound found in shilajit, may have antiviral properties.⁷ This compound also can reduce inflammation and act as an antioxidant. Both of these properties can support the immune system.⁸

What is Shilajit

Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that oozes from the rocks of the Himalayas and other mountain ranges. It is packed with bioactive compounds, including fulvic acid, humic acid, and over 85 trace minerals, making it a powerful natural supplement. As a supplement, shilajit is known for its wide array of potential health benefits.

5. May Prevent Bone Loss

Shilajit may have a positive effect on bone health. A study published in 2022 found postmenopausal women with osteopenia who took shilajit supplements daily saw significant improvements in bone density after 11 months. Osteopenia is low bone mineral density. The researchers theorized this effect may be due to shilajit’s ability to speed up cell turnover.³

6. May Slow the Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, which severely impairs mental functions like memory and speech.⁹ The fulvic acid content in shilajit has been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain.¹⁰

A study published in 2023 also found that fulvic acid may prevent the buildup of tau proteins. These proteins are essential to the nervous system. A buildup of them can damage brain cells and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.¹⁰

There’s limited research on the effects of shilajit on Alzheimer’s disease progression. More research is needed to draw conclusions on this possible benefit.

7. Might Improve Exercise Performance

Research has shown that shilajit can be helpful for exercise efforts. Some evidence suggests that athletes have less post-workout fatigue and are better able to reach peak muscular strength after taking shilajit supplements.¹ Shilajit can also aid in muscle elasticity and repair during an exercise training regimen.¹¹

8. Might Prevent Cancer Cell Growth

Some evidence suggests that the fulvic acid content in shilajit can inhibit cancer cell growth. A study published in 2020 found that the mineral stopped the proliferation of breast cancer cells.¹²

The researchers noted that shilajit could trigger apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells, but more research is needed to support this. Damaged or harmful cells that can lead to cancer grow out of control if apoptosis fails.

How To Take Shilajit

You can find shilajit supplements at many online shops, pharmacies, drugstores, and health food stores. It’s also available as a dissolvable powder for drinks like water or milk and as a capsule.

Dosage

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate shilajit, meaning there’s no set dosage deemed safe and effective. The dose administered in some clinical studies has been between 300 to 500 mg once per day.¹

It’s best to follow the dosing instructions from the manufacturer listed on the label if you’re taking a shilajit supplement. You can also talk to a healthcare provider for guidance on finding a safe and effective dose.

Is Shilajit Safe?

Shilajit isn’t FDA-approved, and the research on it is limited. There’s insufficient information about its side effects or safety among different populations. Some evidence suggests that shilajit is safe and well-tolerated by most people, even when taken long-term. Very few adverse reactions have been reported.¹³ 

Talk to a healthcare provider before taking shilajit. They can advise you about potential drug interactions and side effects. Don’t take shilajit to treat a health condition or to replace a prescription drug without consulting a healthcare provider.¹³

Potential Drug Interactions

There’s no evidence of shilajit interacting with medications. It’s still possible that the mineral may interact with certain drugs, and more research is needed. It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider about any other supplements or medications you take before starting shilajit.

What To Look For

Look for words like “purified” on the label, and follow the instructions closely. Avoid raw, unprocessed shilajit, which can be contaminated. Third parties test products to confirm they contain only the ingredients listed on the label and don’t contain a harmful level of contaminants.¹⁴

Office of Dietary Supplements. Botanical dietary supplements background information – consumer.