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Shilajit – Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects & More
Madhura Mohan
Shilajit has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries and is now attracting serious scientific interest. Formed over centuries from compressed organic plant matter in Himalayan rocks, it contains over 85 minerals and fulvic acid — a compound that enhances mineral absorption, supports mitochondrial energy, and exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
What Is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like resin that seeps from rocks in high-altitude mountain ranges including the Himalayas, Altai, Caucasus, and Andes. It is formed by the gradual decomposition and compression of plant matter over thousands of years. In its purified form, it is classified as a Rasayana in Ayurveda — a category of compounds that promote longevity and rejuvenation. The primary active compounds are fulvic acid (40 to 60% of dry weight) and dibenzo-alpha-pyrones (DBPs).
Evidence-Backed Benefits
- Energy and ATP production: Fulvic acid and DBPs support mitochondrial electron transport chain efficiency, directly enhancing cellular ATP production. Relevant for fatigue, endurance, and physical performance
- Testosterone support: A randomised controlled trial in infertile men and a study in healthy volunteers showed statistically significant increases in total and free testosterone at 250 to 500mg/day over 90 days
- Iron absorption: Fulvic acid enhances iron bioavailability and is used in management of iron deficiency anaemia alongside iron therapy
- Cognitive support: Fulvic acid crosses the blood-brain barrier. Early research shows inhibition of tau protein aggregation (relevant to Alzheimer’s disease) and improved memory in animal models
- Antioxidant protection: Fulvic acid is a potent electron donor and free radical scavenger
Dosage
- Recommended dose: 300 to 500mg per day of purified, standardised extract
- Timing: With meals to improve absorption and reduce potential gastric discomfort
- Form: Capsules (purified extract) are preferred over raw resin due to consistent standardisation and quality testing
- Duration: Most studies use 90-day supplementation periods. Effects accumulate over time
- Purity is critical: Raw, unpurified Shilajit can contain heavy metals and mycotoxins. Always choose laboratory-tested, certified products
Side Effects
- Purified Shilajit at recommended doses: Generally well-tolerated with few reported adverse effects in research
- Heavy metal contamination: Unpurified products pose a real risk — never consume raw, unstandardised Shilajit
- Blood pressure: May mildly lower blood pressure — caution in those on antihypertensive medication
- Contraindications: Sickle cell anaemia, haemochromatosis (iron overload), and thalassaemia — avoid due to iron-enhancing effect
- Pregnancy/lactation: Insufficient safety data — avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
AS-IT-IS Shilajit Capsules
AS-IT-IS Shilajit Capsules contain purified, standardised Shilajit extract — tested for heavy metals and mycotoxins. Each capsule delivers a precise, consistent dose of fulvic acid and active compounds. Manufactured in a GMP-certified facility and 3rd party lab tested for purity and potency.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Shilajit is not just folklore. The research on fulvic acid, mitochondrial energy, and testosterone is real. Purity and standardisation are the difference between a genuine supplement and a heavy metal risk.”
300–500mg/day. Purified, standardised extract. Lab-tested for heavy metals. With meals. 90-day commitment. AS-IT-IS Shilajit Capsules — GMP-certified, 3rd party verified.