Overview

Shilajit is a complex substance that forms naturally in mountain ranges over hundreds of years. It contains many different ingredients and is available over the counter as a dietary supplement. People take shilajit for various reasons, but its effects are not well defined. It seems to be well tolerated, although there is not enough research to know what the common side effects may be. Before taking shilajit, make sure to tell your health care provider about any health conditions you have or medicines you are taking.

Uses

What is shilajit used for?

Shilajit is a substance that forms naturally in mountain ranges over hundreds of years. It is used for many different reasons, but its benefits are not well defined. Some common reasons that people use shilajit include the following.

• To help with altitude sickness
• To boost the immune system
• To help control diabetes
• To improve memory and thinking skills
• To boost male fertility

Note: The FDA has not reviewed shilajit for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about dietary supplements here.

How does shilajit work (mechanism of action)?

Shilajit is a natural substance found at high elevations in various mountain ranges. It forms over hundreds of years from rocks, soil, and plant remains and contains many different chemicals and minerals.

The composition of shilajit is not well understood. Some research suggests that shilajit contains high levels of a chemical called fulvic acid. Fulvic acid is thought to have many effects on the body. But it is not clear how it might work for any specific use.

Shilajit also contains soil and some trace minerals, such as selenium. But its actual contents change depending on which mountain range it comes from.

How should I store shilajit?

You should store shilajit according to the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of shilajit?

Shilajit seems to be well tolerated. But there is not enough research to know what the common side effects may be. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.

There may be side effects of shilajit that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a supplement. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or by calling 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of shilajit?

While less common, the most serious side effects of shilajit are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Shilajit may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking shilajit and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Racing heart
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Itching or skin rash
• Bumps on the skin called hives, which can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain

Precautions

Who should not use shilajit?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take shilajit.

• Mineral pitch
• Mumio
• Shilajit
• Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific shilajit products they stock.

What should I know about shilajit before using it?

Shilajit is a dietary supplement. It cannot be marketed to treat or cure a disease.

Read and follow the directions on the specific product you are taking, or take it as recommended by your health care provider.

Keep shilajit out of the reach of children.

If you are using shilajit powder, use an accurate measuring device to measure the powder, such as the device included with the product. Read the label carefully and measure the amount stated on the label.

Shilajit naturally contains many chemicals and minerals. Shilajit products come from various mountain ranges, as well as different locations within those mountain ranges. Each source of shilajit may contain different types and amounts of chemicals and minerals. If you switch to a new bottle or a different brand, you may not have the same effects or side effects because of this variability. Talk to your health care provider if you have questions or concerns.

The FDA has not tested shilajit products to confirm that they contain the ingredients stated on their labels. Some dietary supplements have been tested by third-party organizations to confirm that they contain the ingredients listed on their labels and do not contain any harmful chemicals. Learn more about how to choose a safe dietary supplement product here.

What should I tell my health care provider before using shilajit?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if shilajit is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Current and Past Health Conditions.Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

• Kidney or liver problems
• Prostate problems

Other Medicines and Supplements. Shilajit may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before taking shilajit, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how shilajit could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if shilajit passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does shilajit interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between shilajit and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect shilajit.

Does shilajit interact with medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or any medicines that contain testosterone.

The interactions between shilajit and medicines are not fully understood. As with most dietary supplements, the research on drug interactions with shilajit is incomplete. Always check with your health care provider before using shilajit with any medicines.

Dosing

What should I do if I accidentally use too much shilajit?

If you or someone else has used too much shilajit, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

Shilajit is a complex substance that contains a variety of chemicals and minerals. It is usually available as a loose powder or in capsules. Read the product label closely and speak with a health care provider about how to use shilajit safely. Do not take double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.