Shilajit FAQ

A dark, sticky organic-mineral material that seeps from rock in mountain ranges such as the Himalayas. It is made largely of humic substances plus plant and microbial metabolites.^[1] Full guide

Mainly high mountain ranges in South and Central Asia, especially the Himalayas and Hindu Kush.^[1] An origin on a label is a claim until documents support it. Origin and geography

Fulvic acids, dibenzo-alpha-pyrones, proteins and minerals are reported as its main components,^[2] in proportions that vary between samples. Composition

Bitter, earthy and smoky. Resin is usually dissolved in a warm drink; capsules avoid the taste. Look, smell and taste

For a few topics there are one or two small human trials with positive results, mostly using one branded extract. No benefit is established. Our ratings put every topic at “Limited” or below. Evidence by topic

One randomised trial in 75 healthy men aged 45–55 reported higher testosterone than placebo after 90 days.^[3] It hasn’t been independently repeated. Testosterone evidence

Two small randomised trials in women exist: one on bone density after menopause^[4] and one on sexual function.^[5] Pregnancy hasn’t been studied. Women’s health evidence

Everyday energy and fatigue haven’t been tested in controlled human trials. The nearest evidence is one exercise study measuring strength after a fatigue test.^[2] Energy evidence

Trials measured outcomes after 8 to 48 weeks.^[2][4] There is no evidence for quick effects, and no evidence that taking more speeds things up. How to use shilajit

Small studies of processed shilajit haven’t shown toxicity,^[6] but they can’t detect rare or long-term effects. Contamination with metals is the main practical risk. Safety guide

It can, because it forms in contact with rock. Thallium has been measured in commercial supplements.^[7] Ask for a batch COA with a metals panel. Contaminants

There is no safety data. Avoid it unless a clinician advises otherwise. Pregnancy and breastfeeding

No formal interaction studies have been published that we are aware of. That is a gap, not reassurance; check with a pharmacist. Medication interactions

Shilajit isn’t banned, but any supplement can be contaminated. UK Anti-Doping advises batch-tested products because strict liability applies.^[8] Sport and anti-doping

Home tests can only rule out crude fakes. A batch-specific COA covering identity, metals and microbiology is the only practical check. Real vs fake

A named laboratory, a batch number matching your jar, a test date, and numerical results with units and detection limits for metals, microbiology and identity. Laboratory testing

No. A purchase shows that ordering and delivery worked for that order. Authenticity needs identity and contaminant evidence linked to the batch you received. See how we evaluate brands.

Neither is better in principle. Resin has fewer ingredients; capsules give a precise dose. Compare shilajit content per serving and the batch COA. Shilajit forms

No published evidence shows one origin is better. Contaminant levels vary within a range, so testing matters more. Himalayan vs Altai

Compare cost per gram and per serving rather than jar price. Calculator · UK prices

We only rank brands after they’ve been through the same published evaluation. UK brands · How to choose

Measure a serving, dissolve it in warm water, tea or milk, and drink it. A scale reading to 0.01 g gives the most consistent dose. How to use shilajit

There is no official dose. Trials used about 200–500 mg a day of specific extracts.^[3][9][4] Follow your product’s label. Studied vs label doses

No study has compared times of day. Consistency matters more than timing. Timing and duration

Sealed, cool and dry. Resin softens in warmth and hardens in cold; neither is a defect. Storage and shelf life

It is openly sold as a food supplement, and food law applies: safety, labelling, contaminant limits and claims rules. Is shilajit legal in the UK?

Only health claims authorised on the GB register may be used in UK marketing of food supplements.^[10][11] A seller should be able to show the authorised wording it relies on. Claims rules

The site is built around research and evaluation: we review the evidence on shilajit and evaluate UK brands against published criteria. About us · Nature Elixirs evaluation

Every topic is rated on a six-level scale based on study type, size, comparison and replication. Our evidence rating system