Shilajit Side Effects and Potential Risks

 

What Is Shilajit?

Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like resin formed over centuries from decomposed plant and microbial matter in high mountain rocks, mainly in the Himalayas and Altai ranges. Packed with fulvic acid, humic substances, trace minerals, and bioactive compounds, it's a staple in Ayurvedic tradition as an adaptogen for supporting energy, vitality, cognitive function, and resilience. Modern interest focuses on its potential antioxidant, mitochondrial-supporting, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Potential Benefits and Overview of Shilajit

 

Emerging research (mostly small trials and preclinical) suggests purified shilajit may help with:

• Reduced fatigue and improved energy via better mitochondrial function.

• Mild hormone support (e.g., testosterone in some studies on men).

• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. (More large-scale human studies are needed to confirm these.)

 

Side Effects and Potential Risks

 

Purified shilajit is generally well-tolerated in studies at typical doses (e.g., 250–500mg daily for weeks to months), with few reported adverse events. However, risks are higher with raw, unprocessed, or low-quality sources. 

Common or Reported Side Effects of Shilajit Resin Supplements:

 

• Some people can get nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, an upset stomach, or just less appetite when they first start. Usually happens if you jump in with too big a dose or your body isn't used to it yet—starting low helps a ton.

• The energizing (or sometimes too-energizing) vibe: For some people, shilajit gives a nice boost of energy that feels mildly stimulating, which is great... until it tips into restlessness, trouble winding down for sleep, jitteriness, or even a faster heart rate. It's not like chugging coffee (no caffeine in there), but a few users say they feel wired or notice their pulse picking up, especially at higher doses or if they're sensitive to stimulants.  Animal studies back this up a bit—low doses sometimes slow heart rate, but higher ones can speed it up or make it irregular. Human experiences are mostly anecdotal, so if your heart starts racing or you get palpitations, stop right away and check in with a doctor.

• Allergic reactions (pretty rare): Itching, a rash, swelling, or breathing trouble—super uncommon, but possible if you're sensitive to any of the components.

• Other little things: Mild headaches, dizziness, or just feeling flushed now and then.

Now lets discuss the major risks of shilajit supplements:

 

• Heavy Metal Contamination: Raw or poorly purified shilajit can contain lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, thallium, or other toxins from natural/geological sources. Long-term exposure risks organ damage (liver, kidneys, neurological). Recent 2025 tests show many commercial products are low-risk if properly purified, but untested/raw ones often exceed safe limits.

• Microbial/Impurity Issues: Mold, fungi, or adulterants in subpar sources.

• Interactions: May lower blood sugar (caution with diabetes meds), affect thyroid/hormones, or interact with iron supplements. Always consult your doctor before taking any dietary supplement if on medications.

• Not for Everyone: Skip if you have hemochromatosis (iron overload), gout, active heart disease, or heavy metal toxicity concerns. Limited data for pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, or very long-term high-dose use.

Safety Tips and Best Practices

 

• Always choose purified, third-party tested shilajit—demand COAs showing heavy metals below safe limits (e.g., <10ppm lead/arsenic, <1ppm mercury), high fulvic acid, and no microbes.

• Start low: 250–500mg/day (split doses; resin often 300–500mg).

• Cycle if desired: 8–12 weeks on, then a break.

• Monitor your response: Discontinue if unusual symptoms (e.g., heart rate changes) occur and seek medical advice.

• Source from reputable brands prioritizing lab verification.

 

Shilajit offers intriguing support for energy and wellness when high-quality and used thoughtfully—purity and moderation are essential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is shilajit safe for everyone?

A: Mostly yes, when it's purified and third-party tested, and you stick to reasonable doses (like 250-500mg/day). But skip it if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, have hormone-sensitive conditions, heavy metal concerns, or are on meds that could interact (like diabetes or thyroid drugs). Always chat with your doctor first—better safe than sorry!

Q: Can women take shilajit?

A: Absolutely, many women do for energy, mood, or general vitality. In traditional use, it's been seen as supportive for things like menstrual balance or bone health. That said, because it might nudge testosterone levels up a bit (from some small studies), it could lead to acne, irregular periods, or other hormonal shifts in sensitive folks—especially if you have PCOS or similar issues. Start low and monitor how you feel.

Q: Does shilajit really boost testosterone in men?

A: Some older small studies (like one from around 2015-2016) showed purified shilajit raising total and free testosterone in healthy guys after 90 days, plus potential perks for sperm count/motility. It's popular for that reason, but results aren't huge or universal—more research would help. If you're using it for energy or libido, many report feeling a difference, but it's not a magic fix.

Q: What if it makes my heart race or I feel too stimulated?

A: Some people get a jittery, energized buzz that's a little too much—restlessness, trouble sleeping, or even a faster pulse. It's not caffeine (zero in there), but animal data hints at dose-dependent heart rate changes. If you notice palpitations or anything off with your heart rate, stop immediately and talk to a doc. Lowering your dose or taking it earlier in the day usually helps those who tolerate it well.

Q: How do I pick a safe shilajit product?

A: Go for purified resin or capsules from brands that show third-party lab tests (COAs) for low heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury, thallium under safe limits), high fulvic acid, and no microbes. Avoid cheap/raw stuff—it's the biggest risk factor for contamination.

Q: Any big interactions or things to avoid?

A: It might lower blood sugar or affect iron/thyroid stuff, so watch if you're on related meds. Traditional Ayurveda has some no-go combos (like certain herbs/foods), but modern advice is mostly "consult your provider" if you're on prescriptions.

Q: How long until I notice effects (or side effects)?

A: Benefits like energy or mood lifts often show up in 2-4 weeks for folks, but side effects (GI upset, stimulation) can hit quicker—sometimes right away if the dose is high. Everyone's different, so track how you feel and adjust.

Important Disclaimers

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare professional before using shilajit or any supplement, especially if you have health conditions, take medications, are pregnant/breastfeeding, or have concerns about heavy metals, allergies, or heart effects. Always prioritize third-party tested products.

References:

• Healthline: Shilajit Benefits, Side Effects (mentions increased heart rate as a stop-use signal if you develop rash, increased heart rate, or dizziness).

• WebMD: Shilajit Overview & Safety (processed forms possibly safe up to 500mg daily for up to 48 weeks, with general tolerability noted).

• Verywell Health: Shilajit Side Effects (notes animal data on heart rate changes—at low concentrations it may lower, at high it may increase—and advises consulting a doctor if you notice alterations).

• PubMed/PMC: Reviews on safety in trials (low adverse events in purified forms; see also broader reviews on purification needs) and 2025 heavy metal studies (e.g., thallium risks in some supplements) (quantifies thallium in Shilajit and supplements, highlighting potential risks with higher levels in some commercial products).