Shilajit: What It Is, What Research Says and How to Choose a Safe, Purified Extract
By What shilajit is, how it is used in modern supplements, what research shows so far, why purified extracts matter, and simple safety tips for adults over 50.
- Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that forms in mountain rock over centuries and has a long history in Ayurvedic tradition.
- Modern supplements use shilajit extract, which is washed and filtered to remove debris and impurities.
- Human research is still small and early; most studies so far have been in animals.
- Quality is everything: raw shilajit can contain heavy metals, so choose a purified, tested extract from a cGMP facility.
- Studies of up to 500 mg of extract suggest it may be safe for short-term use; most heart and energy formulas use far less.
What Is Shilajit?
Shilajit (also called mineral pitch or mumijo) is a blackish-brown, tar-like resin that slowly seeps from rock layers in mountain regions. According to Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS), a U.S. Department of Defense program, it forms from decomposing plant and animal matter and naturally contains minerals such as potassium, calcium and magnesium.
Shilajit has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic tradition in South Asia and in other cultures, which is why it has become a popular modern ingredient for energy, stamina and healthy aging.
How Shilajit Is Used Today
Today, shilajit is sold as a paste, powder, tablets or capsules. OPSS notes that it is marketed mainly for energy and vitality, stamina and endurance, and memory. You will also find small amounts of shilajit in combination formulas. For example, CardioClear7 pairs 80 mg of shilajit extract with CoQ10 and PQQ, two nutrients involved in how your cells make energy.
What the Research Says
Shilajit is a fascinating ingredient, and scientists are still learning about it. Here is an honest summary of where the research stands, based on OPSS:
- Early stage: most studies have been done in rats and mice, and only a few small studies have involved people.
- More independent research is needed: some studies were funded by companies that sell shilajit, so larger independent trials would be valuable.
- Short-term safety: research using up to 500 mg of shilajit extract suggests it may be safe for short-term use.
In short, shilajit is best seen as a supporting ingredient with a long traditional history, rather than a stand-alone solution. Ingredients with stronger human research, such as CoQ10, usually do the heavy lifting in a well-designed formula. Learn more in our CoQ10 guide for adults over 50.
Why Purified Extract Matters
This is the single most important thing to know about shilajit. Because it forms in rock, raw shilajit can contain heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, arsenic and mercury. OPSS explains that shilajit extract is made by washing and filtering raw shilajit to remove debris and impurities.
The FDA has noted that heavy metals can build up in the body and cause harm, so it makes sense to choose purified extracts from reputable manufacturers that test their ingredients, rather than unlabeled raw resin sold online.
How Much Shilajit Is in Supplements?
| Type of product | Typical shilajit amount |
|---|---|
| Combination heart and energy formulas | Often under 100 mg (for example, 80 mg in CardioClear7) |
| Stand-alone shilajit capsules | Often 250–500 mg |
| Short-term research amounts noted by OPSS | Up to 500 mg of extract |
Smaller amounts in a combination formula mean shilajit plays a supporting role alongside the main ingredients.
Safety Tips and Who Should Check First
OPSS lists a few reported side effects linked to shilajit products, including allergic reactions, increased blood pressure, dizziness and disorientation. These simple steps help you use it wisely:
- Choose purified extract from a cGMP-certified facility, never raw resin of unknown origin.
- Check with your doctor first if you have high blood pressure, are pregnant or nursing, or take prescription medicines.
- Stop and call your doctor if you notice dizziness, rash or swelling.
- Keep a list of every supplement you take. Our free Supplement & Medication Checklist makes it easy.
How to Choose a Quality Shilajit Product
- Look for “shilajit extract” or “purified shilajit” on the label.
- Check the amount per serving so you know exactly how much you are taking.
- Look for quality signals: a cGMP-certified facility, third-party testing, or seals from USP, NSF Certified for Sport or Informed Sport.
- Buy from the official brand website or a trusted retailer, not unknown marketplace sellers.
- Favor a long money-back guarantee so you can try it with confidence.
We check every label, price and refund policy by hand. These reviews cover products built on the ingredients in this guide:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shilajit good for?
Shilajit is a traditional Ayurvedic ingredient marketed for energy, vitality, stamina and memory. Human research is still limited, so it works best as a supporting ingredient in a healthy routine.
Is shilajit safe?
According to Operation Supplement Safety, research using up to 500 mg of shilajit extract suggests it may be safe for short-term use. The main concern is heavy metals in raw or untested products, so choose a purified extract from a reputable manufacturer.
What is the difference between raw shilajit and shilajit extract?
Shilajit extract is made by washing and filtering raw shilajit to remove debris and impurities. Raw resin of unknown origin can contain heavy metals such as lead and arsenic.
How much shilajit should I take?
Follow the product label. Combination formulas often contain under 100 mg, while stand-alone capsules often contain 250 to 500 mg. Ask your doctor before starting if you take prescription medicine.
Can shilajit raise blood pressure?
Increased blood pressure has been reported as a possible side effect of shilajit products. If you have high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before taking it.
Why is shilajit in CardioClear7?
CardioClear7 includes 80 mg of shilajit extract as a supporting ingredient alongside 100 mg of CoQ10 and 10 mg of PQQ, two nutrients involved in cellular energy.
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This guide is general education, not medical advice. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement, especially if you take prescription medicine.
Chris V. Schaller
Founder & Editor · Wellness Press Now
- ✓ Label-checked
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Chris started Wellness Press Now with one simple goal: to help readers over 50 feel confident about the supplements they choose. Every review begins with the official Supplement Facts label and today’s order-page prices, then looks at each ingredient through trusted research from the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, NCCIH and MedlinePlus, all explained in plain, friendly English.
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