What is shilajit? Does it have any proven health benefits, and is heavy metal contamination a concern?

Latest Update

Shilajit for Collagen and Bone?

Written by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Updated January 11, 2024 ⓘ

Shilajit Health Benefits -- blister pack of shilajit tablets

Answer:

Shilajit is a black-brown substance, sometimes called "mineral pitch," which is produced from the decomposition of plant material. It contains fulvic acid, which preliminary studies suggest has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as very small amounts of minerals such as potassium, calcium and magnesium. Shilajit supplements have been promoted for a wide range of uses, including boosting testosterone levels and improving fertility in men, improving digestive and skin disorders, increasing collagen production and bone mineral density, anxiety, bronchitis, epilepsy, preventing Alzheimer's disease, lowering cholesterol or blood sugar, and boosting blood levels of CoQ10 or minerals, but there is very little clinical evidence to support most of these uses.

Sign in as member for more details about the clinical evidence regarding shilajit, as well as information about possible side effects and concerns regarding contamination with lead, arsenic and mercury and adulteration.

ConsumerLab will be testing shilajit products in 2024.

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