Shilajit and Longevity: Science and Benefits

Used for over 3,000 years in Ayurvedic medicine, shilajit is making a comeback in modern laboratories. A closer look at this black resin and its promise for energy, brain function, and hormonal balance.

Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells. And shilajit is one of the few natural compounds capable of boosting their efficiency .

Researchers have observed that shilajit supplementation improves the production of ATP —the cellular energy molecule—by up to +27% in 30 days in healthy subjects [1].

Result: less fatigue, more vitality on a daily basis.

Thanks to its fulvic acid content, shilajit facilitates the entry of nutrients into cells, including neurons. This mechanism promotes mental clarity and helps reduce cognitive fog.

A clinical study has shown that shilajit positively modulates dopamine levels and decreases markers of oxidative stress in the brain [2]. It may also act on the HPA axis , which is responsible for stress management [3].

A powerful ally against mental exhaustion and chronic anxiety.

In humans, clinical trials have shown a significant increase in free testosterone after 90 days of supplementation (500 mg/day) [4].

In women, shilajit supports the adrenal glands , helps stabilize mood, and promotes better physical and hormonal recovery [5].

Shilajit is a natural mineral phytocomplex , containing more than 85 minerals in ionic form , as well as unique organic compounds such as:

• Fulvic acid (15–20%) : A low-molecular organic compound that facilitates the absorption of nutrients into cells. It acts as a cellular transporter and antioxidant. In Sanskrit, "Shilajatu" (शिलाजतु) literally means conqueror of mountains or born of rocks , emphasizing its mineral origin and power.
• Humic acid : A heavier molecule than fulvic acid, with powerful detoxifying properties. It helps capture heavy metals and eliminate them from the body. It forms a matrix that traps toxins and supports intestinal health.
• Dibenzo-α-pyrones (DBPs) : mitochondrial antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress.
• Essential minerals : selenium, zinc, copper, iron, magnesium — highly bioavailable.

1 serving of 300–500 mg of pure resin provides on average:

• 5 to 8 mg of iron (30–40% RDA)
• 20 to 40 mg of magnesium (10% RDA)
• 2 to 4 µg of selenium

Just one gram of shilajit can replace a multimineral , an assimilation cofactor (such as piperine), a cellular transporter , and a mild antioxidant such as coenzyme Q10.

Just one gram of shilajit can replace a multimineral , an assimilation cofactor (such as piperine), a cellular transporter , and a mild antioxidant such as coenzyme Q10.

In Ayurveda, shilajit is a rasāyana , a substance that regenerates deep tissues and strengthens ojas , the vital essence of immunity and longevity.

It is often used to stabilize Vata dosha , strengthen memory, clarify the mind, and promote grounding .

Shilajit acts on both matter and subtle energy.

Shilajit acts on both matter and subtle energy.

Not all shilajits are created equal. Here are our recommendations:

• Choose a pure resin , without additives or solvents.
• Look for shilajit from the Himalayas , Altai , or Canadian Rockies , where natural deposits have been identified [7].
• Choose the resin form , which is more stable and concentrated than capsules or powders.

[1] Carrasco-Gallardo, C. et al. (2012). Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity . Int. J. Alzheimer's Dis. 2012.
[2] Kumar, A. et al. (2010). Effect of Shilajit on Memory and Anxiety in Rats . Phytother. Res., 24(3), 384–391.
[3] Amini, H. et al. (2013). Adaptogenic and anxiolytic effects of shilajit extract . J. Ethnopharmacol., 150(2), 581–588.
[4] Pandit, S. et al. (2015). Purified Shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy men . Andrologia, 47(7), 731–736.
[5] Jaiswal, AK et al. (2019). Shilajit and high-altitude resilience . Int. J Ayurveda Res., 10(2), 85–92.
[6] Schepetkin, IA et al. (2003). Humic substances and metal chelation . Approximately. Toxicol. Pharmacol., 15(1), 33–41.
[7] Natural Resources Canada (2021). Geological Reports on Humic Substances in the Rocky Mountains and Orogenic Zones .