May 22, 2025

Shilajit guide: Benefits, risks and how to identify fakes

Siddhartha Jana

What is Shilajit?

Shilajit is a mineral-rich, sticky resin formed from decomposed plants in mountains. It’s packed with fulvic acid, humic acid, and trace minerals.

Source: Freepik

Benefits of Shilajit

Traditionally used to boost energy, reduce fatigue, and speed up recovery, shilajit is valued for its healing, anti-ageing, and immunity-boosting properties.

Source: Canva

Rising risk of adulteration

Due to high demand, fake or adulterated shilajit is common in the market, often lacking the natural properties and safety of genuine versions.

Source: Freepik

Solubility test

Real shilajit fully dissolves in warm water or milk, leaving a clear golden-brown liquid. Fakes leave residues or fragments behind.

Source: Freepik

Burn and smell check

Authentic shilajit does not catch fire and has a strong, earthy smell with a bitter taste. Sweet or odourless samples may be fake.

Source: Freepik

Texture and temperature

Pure shilajit is sticky at warm temperatures and hardens when cold. This temperature-sensitive consistency is a key authenticity indicator.

Source: Freepik

Choose tested products

Always buy lab-tested shilajit that’s screened for heavy metals and microbes. Reputable brands provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA).

Source: Freepik

Use with caution

Not safe for everyone—avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding, or with conditions like gout, kidney issues, or on blood thinners. Consult a doctor first.

Source: Canva

5 fascinating creatures with shockingly short lifespans