Shilajit has been part of Ayurvedic tradition for centuries. Today, researchers are studying what's actually in it and how it may support the body. Here's an honest look at what we know.
What is shilajit?
Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like resin that seeps from rock layers in high mountain ranges, including the Himalayas. It forms over a very long time as plant matter breaks down and becomes trapped in rock. Raw shilajit is collected and then purified to remove dirt, stones, and other impurities before it becomes the resin in your jar.
What's in it
- Fulvic acid. The most-studied component. Fulvic acid is a natural compound formed when organic matter breaks down. Researchers are interested in how it may help the body take in and use minerals.*
- Humic substances. Related compounds that make up much of shilajit's dark, resinous body.
- Trace minerals. Shilajit naturally contains a range of minerals from the rock it forms in.
- Dibenzo-α-pyrones (DBPs). Small compounds researchers have studied for their role in cellular energy.
Because shilajit is a natural substance, its exact makeup varies with where and how it was collected and purified.
What research has looked at
Human research on shilajit is still early. Most studies have been small, and many used a specific standardized, purified shilajit extract rather than raw resin. With that in mind, researchers have studied shilajit in areas such as:
- Energy and fatigue. Studies have looked at how shilajit relates to cellular energy production and recovery from physical exertion.*
- Muscle strength and exercise. Small trials in active adults have explored strength retention and how muscles respond to training.*
- Men's health. A small trial in middle-aged men looked at hormone levels over several months of daily use.*
- Nutrient absorption. Fulvic acid is being studied for how it may help carry minerals into cells.*
Results from these studies are promising, but they don't automatically apply to every shilajit product, and more research is needed. We'd rather tell you that straight than overpromise.
Our approach
- Himalayan resin, sold the traditional way. We offer shilajit as a resin, its traditional form, rather than powders or capsules that may include fillers.
- Purified. Raw shilajit is purified before it's packed.
- Nothing added. No fillers, no flavors, no additives.
New to shilajit? Start with our How to Use guide.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice.