Shilajit: benefits, quality, and usage
Quiz: Test your knowledge of Shilajit
10 questions to assess your understanding of this ancient substance
Le shilajit, a few years ago, it was hardly mentioned in the West. However, in other parts of the world, it has been used for a long time for its bienfaits.
As it is still relatively unknown, we have decided to answer 10 key questions: its origin in the Himalayas, its impact on testosterone, the recommended dosages, and potential side effects. The aim is straightforward: to guide you towards informed choices and based on reliable data
What is shilajit and how is it formed?
So, just imagine. You see how oil is formed: organic matter that transforms over centuries under pressure (yes, CENTURIES ENTIRE! See even more) to become the fuel of our civilisation. And well for the shilajit, the idea of slowness remains the same, except that the composition is entirely different. Here, we’re not just talking about organic. It’s a blend of ancient plants and the rock itself, brought together through a lengthy natural process.
Over time, this plant and mineral duo is compacted, reshaped, and broken down by pressure, heat, and the action of microorganisms. Nothing happens quickly. Everything evolves in small steps, year after year, until it creates something that exists nowhere else
And after this very long process, you end up with a dark, sticky resin that eventually seeps out of the rock (as if it had taken her an eternity to find the way out). That's it, the shilajit : a raw, dense substance that is naturally rich in active compounds, shaped by time and nature. human oil (yes, it may not seem great, but actually)
To better understand the exceptional nature of shilajit, let's compare its formation time to that of other known natural substances. This timeline illustrates the geological time scales involved:
Shilajit is notable for its relatively quick formation on a a geological scale. Unlike oil, which takes millions of years to form, shilajit develops over a few centuries to millennia through a unique process that combines plant decomposition and mineral transformation under pressure
Where can you find shilajit?
Oil, you won’t find it in your garden unless you happen to live right in an area that’s rich in it. Well, for the shilajit, it’s exactly the same logic. This resin won’t start dripping from your tap, nor will it magically appear behind your house (even if it would be convenient).
Le shilajit can only be found in very specific locations. Not in the plains, not in typical forests, not by the sea. It requires extreme conditions to exist, and these conditions are only found in certain unique mountain ranges.
Main harvesting areas of shilajit
Composition of shilajit: what it truly contains
What makes the shilajit Also unique is the complexity of its composition. Few natural products bring together so many different elements in a single substance. We're talking about organic acids, minerals, plant compounds, and bioactive molecules that are rarely found together elsewhere (that's what gives it all its strength).
Fulvic acid
Fulvic acid is one of the most prevalent elements in the shilajit. It’s a small molecule derived from the natural decomposition of plants. Its tiny structure allows it to easily interact with other substances, which is why it’s often mentioned when describing shilajit.
Fulvic acid can also be found in other natural materials, such as certain nutrient-rich soils or in ancient peat. However, in these sources, the levels remain modest. shilajit, it stands out precisely because it contains a significantly higher amount than what is typically found in nature (that's where the difference is made).
Humic acid
Humic acid is another key component. Larger than fulvic acid, it also comes from the slow transformation of organic matter. Its uniqueness lies in its ability to bind with various molecules and minerals, a natural property that develops only in very ancient environments
You can also find it in humus or certain peat types, again in limited quantities. shilajit It often contains much more, simply because its formation process is significantly longer and occurs under conditions that these other materials do not reach. This explains why shilajit displays levels of humic acids that are markedly higher than the majority of other natural sources
Minerals and trace elements
Le shilajit renferme également de nombreux minéraux et oligo-éléments. Ils ne sont pas présents en quantité massive, mais dans une forme naturellement liée à la matière organique et minérale issue de son long processus de formation. Si vous souhaitez connaître la liste complète, nous avons d’ailleurs un article dédié qui détaille les 85 minéraux identifiés dans le shilajit (for those who like to delve deep into things).
You can also find rarer molecules, such as dibenzo-alpha-pyrones, urolithins, and certain chromoproteins. They are derived directly from the transformation of the plant and its mineral structure, and are an integral part of the chemical identity of shilajit.
The 5 main benefits of shilajit
- Enhance ATP production (cellular energy)
- Boosts physical endurance and recovery
- Reduces chronic fatigue and exhaustion
- Enhance oxygen delivery to your muscles
- Enhances focus and mental clarity
- Protects neurons from oxidative stress
- Enhance memory and cognitive functions
- Supports long-term brain health
- Helps to maintain healthy testosterone levels
- Supports male reproductive function
- Boosts libido and sexual vitality
- Promote overall hormonal balance
- Mitigates the negative effects of chronic stress
- Enhance your physical and mental resilience
- Promote better emotional balance
- Supports adrenal glands
- Rich in essential minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc)
- Protects cells from oxidative stress
- Enhance bone density and strength
- Fights free radicals and cellular aging
Shilajit and physical performance: what science really says
On physical performance, the available data is still limited. There are some interesting results, but they should be seen as leads rather than definitive certainties
Animal studies show that the shilajit could increase ATP levels, the molecule that provides energy to the muscles. There is also a stimulation of mitochondrial activity, suggesting that shilajit could help cells produce and utilise energy more effectively.
On the human side, some clinical trials indicate positive effects on recovery and improved resistance to strength loss after intense exertion (interesting but still preliminary results).
That said, it's important to remain cautious. Samples are often small, protocols can vary, and there is still a lack of large-scale studies. Today, research is progressing, but it still doesn't allow for definitive conclusions regarding physical performance
Shilajit and testosterone: what science says
Le shilajit is regularly associated with testosterone, and there are indeed a few interesting studies on the subject. While they are not numerous, the results observed are worth mentioning
In a clinical trial, men aged between 45 and 55 experienced an increase in testosterone levels of around 20% after 90 days of daily intake. Another study reports a rise of nearly 22%, also within a population of hormonally healthy men.
We also see encouraging results in terms of fertility. Some observations indicate an improvement in the total sperm count as well as their motility. Again, these studies involve adults with normal hormonal function
It is important to keep in mind that these studies primarily target middle-aged men without any specific health issues. Individuals suffering from hypogonadism, for instance, may not respond in the same way, and the effects are limited
Shilajit and growth: myth or reality?
Le shilajit does not increase height. No study has shown any direct or indirect impact on height or growth hormone. Once adolescence is over, the growth plates close and there are no longer any natural ways to increase height (shilajit is no exception).
If this myth exists, it’s largely because shilajit has been used for a long time in traditional medicine and is often associated with vitality or overall strength. Some people have therefore made the leap between “vitality” and “growth,” even though these are two completely different processes.
On a scientific level, the facts are straightforward: there is no data showing an effect on bone growth. However, some studies suggest an influence on hormonal balance, particularly on testosterone in adults, but this has nothing to do with height.
In summary, if you’re looking for a product to help you grow, shilajit won’t have any effect. However, it can be beneficial for other aspects of adult health (this is detailed in the other sections), but physical growth is not something he can change.
How to ensure quality shilajit?
A shilajit The quality primarily depends on its environment of origin. High-altitude areas, far from pollution and industrial activity, provide the best conditions for formation. Without this isolation and altitude, it is impossible to obtain a naturally pure resin
The extraction is typically done by hand, directly from the cracks in the rock. Once collected, the raw shilajit must be purified. Serious methods use low-temperature filtration, which helps remove impurities without altering the natural components.
Next come the laboratory tests. They are essential: heavy metals, contaminants, bacteria, everything must be checked to ensure that the product is clean and compliant. Certifications (such as GMP standards or analyses conducted in an independent laboratory) are there to provide this transparency.
At DIX, we use a Himalayan source located at high altitude, far from any pollution. We apply a controlled purification process, and each batch is tested in an independent laboratory before being jarred. The goal is simple: to ensure a stable, clean shilajit that meets our quality standards
Side effects and precautions
At first, some people may experience mild digestive issues: diarrhoea, nausea, or abdominal discomfort. Generally, there's nothing to worry about, and these symptoms often subside after a few days. Starting with a small amount helps to prevent this kind of reaction.
True caution mainly concerns untested products. Poorly purified shilajit may contain heavy metals or microbiological contaminants. This is why laboratory testing is not an option but a necessity
There are also a few contraindications. Shilajit, which is naturally high in iron, is not recommended for individuals with iron overload or those at risk of haemochromatosis. It is also advised against in cases of kidney or liver issues, during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in the case of phenylketonuria, as it contains phenylalanine.
In the case of persistent symptoms — unusual headaches, prolonged digestive issues, or allergic reactions — it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. The principle is straightforward: if something doesn’t seem right, it’s better to seek advice rather than to insist.
Resin or capsules: which form should you choose?
| Criterion | Resin | Capsules |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Traditional ancestral form | Modern encapsulated form |
| Texture / Taste | Sticky, pronounced earthy taste | No taste, easy to swallow |
| Handling | Requires preparation (dilution in water) | Very simple, ready to use |
| Dosage | To adjust yourself (300-500 mg) | Standardised and precise |
| Absorption | Sublingual option (+ faster) | Classic digestion |
| Storage | Sensitive to heat and air | Protected from oxidation |
| Convenience | Perfect for home | Perfect on the go |
| Purification | Depends on the manufacturer | Depends on the manufacturer |
Dosage and usage
To begin with, the simplest dose is the equivalent of a small grain of rice, taken once a day. This allows you to see how your body reacts without pushing it too hard from the start
If all goes well, you can gradually increase to a portion the size of a pea, one to two times a day. The idea is to proceed gently, adjusting according to your comfort.
The ideal time depends on what you're looking for. In the morning, it pairs well with a more active start to the day. Before a workout, it easily fits into a fitness routine. And in the evening after a meal, it is often used for recovery purposes. Just avoid taking it right before bed if you are sensitive to stimulating products.
What to avoid: don’t start too strong, don’t increase the doses unnecessarily, and don’t exceed high doses "just to see". Shilajit works best when you stay consistent and sensible.
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