Some people take shilajit to help relieve altitude sickness and boost their sperm count.
However, there is not yet enough evidence to recommend its use for these potential benefits.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
subodhsathe / Getty Images
subodhsathe / Getty Images
1.
Slow Alzheimer’s Progression
Shilajit contains an antioxidant known as fulvic acid.
Tau is considered a key marker ofAlzheimer’s diseaseand similar diseases.
This was measured by mental examination tests.
Lower Cholesterol
A small study published in 2003 found improvements in cholesterol levels.
The study included 30 individuals, ranging in age from 16 to 30 years.
Participants were randomly placed in two groups.
Researchers found significant decreases in cholesterol levels and triglycerides in the shilajit group compared to the placebo group.
Highcholesteroland hightriglyceridesincrease the risk of developingheart disease.
However, researchers tested forbut did not seechanges in blood pressure, pulse rate, or body weight.
The study authors concluded that both doses of shilajit increased jot down 1 collagen synthesis compared to the placebo.
Maintain Bone Health
Bone loss is a significant concern in menopausal women.
A 2022 study evaluated the effects of shilajit supplementation in 60 postmenopausal women, aged 45 to 65 withosteopenia.
Most shilajit supplements only report the amount of shilajit per dose on the label.
Preserve Muscle Strength
Researchers evaluated the effect of shilajit supplements on muscle strength in 63 men.
The participants were randomly divided into three groups.
Researchers tested the participants muscle strength.
The group that took the high dose retained more muscle strength than the other two.
The Health Benefits of Shilajit
What Are The Side Effects Of Shilajit?
Due to a lack of research, little is known about the safety of shilajit.
However, that doesn’t exclude the possibility of medication interactions.
Who Shouldn’t Take Shilajit?
Pregnant or breastfeeding people and children shouldn’t take shilajit in any form.
As noted above, it is also best to avoid shilajit if you havehemochromatosisor concerns withtestosterone.
Dosage: How Much Shilajit Should I Take?
There is not enough scientific evidence to determine a standard or appropriate dose of shilajit.
Though its often black, it can come in various colors including white and has a strong odor.
Each supplement contains varying amounts of shilajit, either alone or combined with other nutrients.
Because of these differences, you should follow the dose instructions on the product you use.
Some products may be contaminated with dangerous substances, such as heavy metals.
Even substances that are labeled “purified” may contain contaminants.
No scientific evidence suggests which form is best.
Additionally, there are safety concerns when taking this or any supplement.
Summary
Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that has long been used in Ayurveda healing.
However, moreclinical trialswith human participants are needed to understand the effects and dosage amounts.
While research is limited, possible side effects include increased iron levels in the blood and altered hormone levels.
Stohs SJ.Safety and efficacy of shilajit (mumie, moomiyo).Phytother Res.
2003;23(2):114119.
2020;41(1):20190040. doi:10.1515/hmbci-2019-0040
Harvard Medical School.Altitude sickness.
Meena H, Pandey HK, Arya MC, et al.Shilajit: A panacea for high-altitude problems.
Int J Ayurveda Res.
2010 Jan;1(1):37-40. doi: 10.4103/0974-7788.59942
Harvard T.H.
Chan School of Public Health.Collagen.
2024;21(1):1-12. doi:10.1080/19390211.2022.2157522
Endocrine Society.Menopause and bone loss.
2019 Feb 6;16(1):3. doi:10.1186/s12970-019-0270-2.
2015 May 26;166:129-34. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2015.03.019.
