Herbal

Shilajit

Also known as: purified shilajit, fulvic acid complex, mumijo, mumiye, Himalayan resin

Overview

Shilajit is a traditional Ayurvedic medicinal substance composed of humic substances and fulvic acid, derived from organic plant material compressed in rock layers of mountain ranges, particularly the Himalayas. It has been used for centuries in folk medicine for its purported adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and energy-enhancing properties. Emerging research suggests that shilajit may support mitochondrial function and cellular energy production, primarily through its dibenzo-alpha-pyrones and fulvic acid content, which may enhance electron transport chain activity [1]. Some clinical evidence indicates potential benefits in male fertility, cognitive function, and chronic fatigue, though larger, high-quality trials are needed to confirm these effects. Due to variability in sourcing and composition, standardization and quality control remain significant concerns [2][8].

Dosage Guide

Therapeutic Doses

For treatment of specific conditions

General wellness250-500 mg/dayStandardized to 60-85% fulvic acid
Male fertility support250 mg twice dailyStudied for 90 days with improved sperm parameters
Cognitive or fatigue support500 mg/dayLimited clinical evidence; based on pilot studies

Upper Intake Limit

Maximum safe daily intake

1000 mgNo established UL; doses up to 1 g/day used short-term; long-term safety unknown

Special Forms

Alternative forms for specific needs

Fulvic acid concentrate

Enhanced bioavailability; used in cognitive and metabolic support

Standardized shilajit extract

Ensures consistent dibenzo-alpha-pyrones and fulvic acid content

Clinical Notes

  • Shilajit may contain heavy metals or contaminants if not properly purified; only use third-party tested products
  • Potential interaction with anticoagulants and antihypertensives due to mineral content and biological activity
  • Avoid in autoimmune conditions due to immune-modulating potential
  • Limited safety data in pregnant or breastfeeding women; avoid use

Research

Key FindingsPubMed
1

Highlights concerns about safety, quality, and need for standardization in herbal medicines including shilajit.

Phytotherapy and quality of herbal medicines.
Fitoterapia2000
2

Discusses lack of robust data on herbal products and potential for adverse interactions, relevant to shilajit use.

Interactions with herbal products: what do we know?
Drug and therapeutics bulletin2014
3

Reviews traditional plant uses in Indian subcontinent; indirect context for shilajit's ethnobotanical use.

Traditional use of plants against snakebite in Indian subcontinent: a review of the recent literature.
African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM2012
4

Demonstrates poor quality of adverse event reporting in herbal products, underscoring need for caution.

[Literature review report on safety evaluation about Kudiezi injection].
Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica2012
5

Discusses challenges in establishing dose-effect relationships in herbal compounds, applicable to shilajit.

[Thinking on dose-effect relationship of Chinese herbal compounds in clinical studies].
Zhongguo Zhong xi yi jie he za zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi jiehe zazhi = Chinese journal of integrated traditional and Western medicine2011
6

Systematic review methodology for herbal products; supports need for evidence-based evaluation of shilajit.

An evidence-based systematic review of kudzu (Pueraria lobata) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration.
Journal of dietary supplements2015
7

Notes minimal quality control and regulatory oversight of herbal supplements, including risks with shilajit.

Herbal and alternative medicine.
Emergency medicine clinics of North America2000
8

Emphasizes that most herbal medicines lack sufficient evidence to determine net benefit or harm.

Herbal medicine.
The Medical clinics of North America2002

Products Containing Shilajit(2 reports)