Is shilajit safe? Potent, viral ‘black goo’ supplement touted for fatigue, anxiety, sex drive and more
Is Shilajit legit?
The tarlike resin found in the Himalayas has been used in ayurvedic medicine for centuries and is lately making the rounds on TikTok. Known to some as “the Healer of all weaknesses,” die-hard devotees claim the supplement can boost energy, clear skin, reduce anxiety and increase testosterone.
Shilajit develops from the slow decomposition of plants at high altitudes and contains 87 minerals. In its raw or unprocessed form, shilajit may contain free radicals, fungus, heavy metals and other contaminants. Because shilajit is deemed an herbal supplement, the Food and Drug Administration does not monitor it for quality, purity, or efficacy.
Shilajit is available in liquid, powder, or gummy form. If you opt for the liquid cure, dissolve a pea-sized dose in a beverage of your choice 1-3 times daily. Powder users add shilajit to milk and enjoy it twice daily.
Experts urge the shilajit-curious to research the product and choose a reputable manufacturer.
Read on for some of the risks and benefits associated with this miracle resin.
Slow Alzheimer’s disease and boost longevity
More than 6 million people in the United States and millions more around the world have Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia. Its telltale “biomarkers” are brain-clogging amyloid plaques and abnormal tau protein that leads to neuron-killing tangles.
According to Healthline, shilajit contains fulvic acid, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to prevent the accumulation of tau protein and reduce inflammation. In tandem, these effects could potentially reduce symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
Because of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of fulvic acid, it is believed that shilajit can help guard against cell damage and decelerate the aging process.
Raise testosterone
Testosterone is a hormone that helps maintain and develop sex organs, muscle mass, red blood cells and bone density.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, low testosterone affects about 2% of men, with symptoms ranging from depression, loss of body hair and reduced libido to erectile dysfunction and low sperm count.
A clinical study found that men who were treated with a twice-daily dose of shilajit for 90 consecutive days saw a significant increase in their testosterone levels than those who were given a placebo.
Treat male infertility
Relative to testosterone, shilajit is used to treat male infertility. In one study, researchers found that 60% of infertile men treated with shilajit showed an increase in total sperm count over a 3-month period.
Support heart health
As a dietary supplement, shilajit is linked to heart health. Researchers found that rats treated with shilajit prior to an induced cardiac injury had fewer abnormalities in the heart or major blood vessels than those who were not treated with the resin.
Treat chronic fatigue syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, is a mysterious illness that causes extreme fatigue, joint pain, brain fog and dizziness lasting at least six months.
Proponents say shilajit can ease these symptoms by promoting mitochondrial function. Healthline cites a 2012 study in which lab rats given shilajit for 21 days showed marked improvement in their energy levels.
Increase iron
Anemia occurs when blood doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. The condition occurs when the body lacks or loses iron.
Shilajit supplements are thought to gradually increase iron levels in the body. Per Healthline, a study of anemia-induced lab rats found that those who received shilajit had higher levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit and red blood cells than those who didn’t.
Risks
Those with heart conditions, sickle cell anemia, hemochromatosis, or thalassemia should not take shilajit.
Even without these conditions, it is possible to have an allergic reaction to shilajit. Discontinue the supplement if you develop dizziness, a rash, or an increased heart rate.
As with all supplements, if you are considering incorporating shilajit into your wellness routine, speak with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s safe for you.
