BNB Talk
What Is Shilajit? Why Is It Gaining Popularity?
What shilajit is, what the research actually says, and what to check before you try it.
You've probably seen shilajit popping up everywhere lately. It's become one of the most talked-about natural supplements for men, and it's been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
But what is it, and what does modern research actually say? Here's the honest version.
What is shilajit?
Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like substance that slowly seeps out of rock in high mountain ranges like the Himalayas. It forms over centuries as plant matter breaks down and gets pressed into the rock.
It's rich in fulvic acid and contains a wide range of minerals. That's why it's been a staple of Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medicine of India, for a very long time.
Today you'll mostly find it sold two ways: as the raw resin in a small jar, which you dissolve in warm water, or as a purified extract in capsules.
What does the research say?
Scientists have been taking a closer look at shilajit, and the early research is interesting. It's also still early days, so it's worth knowing what we know and what we don't.
Fulvic acid
Fulvic acid is the compound most of the interest is focused on. A 2012 scientific review described it as having antioxidant activity, and lab research suggests it may help carry minerals and nutrients into cells. Most of that work has been done in the lab and in animals rather than in people.
Shilajit and testosterone in men
This is where most of the buzz comes from. In a 2016 study, healthy men aged 45 to 55 took purified shilajit or a placebo for 90 days. The shilajit group finished with higher total and free testosterone levels than the placebo group.
That's a promising result, but keep it in perspective:
- It was one study, with fewer than 100 men.
- It used a specific purified extract, at a set dose.
- The results haven't yet been backed up by large independent trials.
So the fair summary is that shilajit shows early promise, and more research is needed before anyone can make big promises about it.
Shilajit shows early promise. Treat it as one small part of a healthy lifestyle, not a shortcut.
Is shilajit safe?
Purified shilajit has been well tolerated in the studies so far. Quality is the big issue. Raw or poorly processed shilajit can contain heavy metals and other contaminants.
Before you try it
- Buy purified and tested: only use shilajit from a brand that tests for heavy metals. Skip the cheap, unlabelled stuff.
- Check with your GP: especially if you have a health condition or take any medication.
- Get the basics right first: sleep, training, a solid diet and managing stress will do far more for you than any single supplement.
The bottom line
Shilajit has a long history in traditional medicine, and the modern research is early but interesting. It isn't a magic pill. If you're curious about it, buy a quality, tested product, talk to your GP, and treat it as a supporter alongside good habits, not a replacement for them.
If you want to look after your health and hormones the natural way, start with Michael's guide: how to naturally increase testosterone. And because sleep does so much of the heavy lifting, read sleep, recovery and your gains next.
Shop shilajit at BootyNBuff
We stock shilajit both ways: as the pure resin, and as capsules for an easy daily dose. You'll find them alongside the rest of our men's health range.
Lifecykel
Shilajit Pure Resin
$89.95
Shop now
Switch Nutrition
Switch Shilajit
$59.95
Shop now
Primabolics
Primabolics Shilajit
$49.95
Shop now
