Himalayan Shilajit: What It Is, How It Works, and Why You Should Use It

Shilajit is a dark, resinous substance found in rock crevices of the Himalayas, Altai, Caucasus, and other mountain ranges. It forms over thousands of years from the decomposition of plant material under the influence of microorganisms and geological pressure. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years.

What Does Shilajit Contain?

Shilajit is a complex compound containing over 85 minerals in ionic form, fulvic acid, humic acid, amino acids, and a range of bioactive compounds.

Component	Proportion	Role studied in research
Fulvic acid	60–80%	Studied in connection with nutrient transport and antioxidant activity
Humic acid	10–20%	Studied for its interaction with minerals and heavy metals
Iron	High	A mineral involved in normal oxygen transport
Zinc	High	A mineral involved in the normal function of the immune system
Magnesium	High	A mineral involved in normal muscle and nervous-system function
Dibenzo-alpha-pyrones	Variable	Studied in connection with antioxidant activity and mitochondria

What the Research Examines

1. Energy and Endurance

In a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, researchers examined shilajit's influence on mitochondrial function and ATP production (cellular energy) and reported a higher maximum VO2 in the shilajit group after 8 weeks. The EFSA has not authorised a health claim for shilajit.

2. Testosterone and Men's Health

In a clinical study on 96 healthy men (Andrologia, 2016), the researchers observed higher total and free testosterone values in the purified-shilajit group after 90 days compared with placebo. Results of individual studies are not a promise of a specific effect.

3. Cognitive Functions

Fulvic acid is studied in laboratory research for its interaction with tau proteins. This work is preclinical and does not allow conclusions about disease in humans.

4. Antioxidant Compounds and Skin

Shilajit contains compounds studied for their antioxidant activity against free radicals. Fulvic acid is also researched in connection with collagen and skin hydration.

How to Properly Use Shilajit

Dosage: A pea-sized amount (300–500mg) daily
Method: Dissolve in warm (not hot!) water, milk, or tea
Timing: Morning on an empty stomach for best absorption
Duration: At least 6–8 weeks for full effects
Break: After 3 months, take a 2–4 week break

What to Watch for When Buying

The market is flooded with counterfeit shilajit. Purified shilajit (resin) should be dark, shiny, sticky, and dissolve in water without residue. Avoid shilajit in powder or capsule form as it often contains fillers.

Property	Real Shilajit	Fake/Low Quality
Consistency	Sticky resin, soft when warm	Hard, powdery, or overly liquid
Color	Dark brown to black	Light brown or gray
Solubility	Dissolves completely in water	Residue, lumps
Smell	Earthy, slightly bitter	Odorless or chemical
Fire test	Doesn't burn, forms ash	Burns like plastic

Our Offering

At Faga.bio, we offer two shilajit products – Classic (30g, 4-month supply) and Premium version enriched with 24-karat gold (20g). Both come in dark glass containers that protect from light and moisture.

FAQ

Is shilajit safe for daily use?

Yes, purified shilajit is safe for most adults. Start with a smaller dose and gradually increase. Consult your doctor if you have chronic conditions or take medications.

How long does one jar of shilajit last?

Our Classic version (30g) lasts approximately 3–4 months at the recommended daily dose of 300mg.

Can women use shilajit?

Absolutely! Shilajit isn't just for men. Women can benefit from improved energy, better sleep, stronger immunity, and healthier skin. It's only not recommended during pregnancy without consulting a doctor.

What's special about the Lauha version?

Lauha Shilajit is the most intense type – rich in iron, minimally processed, with strong taste and smell (proof of purity!). According to Astanga Hrdayam, the Lauha type is "the best of all shilajit types." Faster action, focus on energy and vitality.

How to tell real shilajit from fake?

Real shilajit is sticky when warm, dissolves completely in water, has an earthy smell, and doesn't burn in flame (forms ash). If you buy shilajit in powder or capsule form, there's a high chance it's not pure shilajit.

Does shilajit have side effects?

In rare cases, it may cause mild nausea or digestive discomfort, especially at the beginning. If you have gout or high uric acid levels, consult your doctor as shilajit may increase purine levels.

Sources

Keller JL, Housh TJ, Hill EC, Smith CM, Schmidt RJ, Johnson GO (2019). The effects of Shilajit supplementation on fatigue-induced decreases in muscular strength and serum hydroxyproline levels. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. PMID: 30728074
Pandit S, Biswas S, Jana U, De RK, Mukhopadhyay SC, Biswas TK (2016). Clinical evaluation of purified Shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. Andrologia. PMID: 26395129
Biswas TK, Pandit S, Mondal S, Biswas SK, Jana U, Ghosh T, Tripathi PC, Debnath PK, Auddy B, Krishnamurthy S (2010). Clinical evaluation of spermatogenic activity of processed Shilajit in oligospermia. Andrologia. PMID: 20078516
Yadav D, Mishra S, Shah KM, Reddy ST, Gupta R, Pandey P (2026). Safety and Efficacy of TruBlk™ Shilajit Resin Supplementation on Physical Performance and Blood Biomarkers in Healthy Adults: A 28-Day Open-Label Pilot Study. Cureus. PMID: 38390772
Stohs SJ, Goel B, MacIntyre D, Higginbotham S, Sasapu A, Pothuri M, Syal R (2014). Safety and efficacy of shilajit (mumie, moomiyo). Phytother Res. PMID: 24706519

Author

Stari Vuk

Stari Vuk is the editorial voice behind faga.bio. Researches and writes about microgreens, natural supplements and hydroponics, drawing on scientific sources and hands-on growing experience.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and does not replace consultation with a doctor. Consult a doctor before taking any food supplement — especially with chronic conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Blog & guides