Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Andrew Lenau ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
FACT CHECKED
With no end to the demand for testosterone boosters, the dietary supplement industry constantly studies new and interesting natural compounds for their potential 'T' boosting benefits. Shilajit is an oozy substance flowing from the Himalayas' rocky mountain tops and beyond. It's been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat all manner of conditions. In recent times, Shilajit has gained the attention of Western researchers. Among other things, it's being looked at as a booster of the male androgenic hormone testosterone.
So, what is the latest understanding of Shilajit and testosterone production? Does Shilajit increase testosterone levels or not? And, if so, how much Shilajit per day for testosterone should you take? Let's start getting some answers.
Table of Contents
- What is Shilajit
- Does Shilajit Increase Testosterone Levels
- Other Benefits of Shilajit
- Side Effects of Shilajit
- Shilajit FAQs
- Summary
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like fluid that oozes off rocks in the Himalayas, Altai Mountains, Caucasus Mountains, and other mountain ranges. Shilajit is created over many years as a result of microbial and plant materials decomposing. Shilajit is regarded as a potent and revitalizing material in Ayurveda and is said to provide several health advantages, including supporting healthy testosterone levels. It is frequently used to increase vigor, energy, and general endurance.
Shilajit also strengthens cognitive abilities, assists the immune system, and advances general well-being. It is also believed that shilajit can help boost testosterone levels. Shilajit's therapeutic benefits result from a complex blend of minerals, fulvic acid, and other chemical substances.
Does shilajit increase testosterone levels?
Shilajit has become a popular supplement among athletes and anyone looking to improve their performance and vitality due to reports that it can support healthy testosterone levels. These statements, however, are only partially and inconsistently supported by science. A 2016 clinical evaluation found that Shilajit supplementation in infertile men significantly improved total and free testosterone levels, sperm count, and motility compared to a placebo group.¹
Another 2016 placebo-controlled clinical study conducted by the same researchers found that Shilajit supplementation raised total testosterone levels in healthy male volunteers after 90 days of treatment, according to research published in the journal Andrologia.²
Even though these studies show potential for Shilajit to increase testosterone levels, there simply isn't enough research yet to definitively state that Shilajit is a natural testosterone booster. Additional carefully planned and managed clinical trials are required to establish a more conclusive connection between Shilajit and healthy testosterone levels.
Other benefits of Shilajit
Shilajit has been identified as potentially having several benefits beyond boosting testosterone levels. Here are five more ways that supplementing with Shilajit may benefit you:
1. May slow Alzheimer's
Even though numerous studies have examined Shilajit's possible therapeutic benefits for Alzheimer's disease, further research is necessary before drawing any clear conclusions. Alzheimer's disease is a complicated neurological illness. Shilajit contains a powerful antioxidant called Fulvic acid, along with compounds known as dibenzo-alpha-pyrones and trace minerals that may reduce the effects of Alzheimer's.
In numerous animal model studies, shilajit supplementation has demonstrated promise for improving cognition and protecting the nervous system. According to a 2012 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, Shilajit improved cognitive function and diminished cognitive deficits in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease.³
You can check out our list of the Best Curcumin Supplements for another supplement that may help slow Alzheimer's.
2. May reduce fatigue
Shilajit contains compounds that may help to reduce fatigue and increase energy. Fulvic acid, a naturally occurring substance that significantly enhances nutrition delivery and absorption at the cellular level, is abundant in Shilajit. Fulvic acid may help enhance energy output and decrease weariness by improving nutrition transport across cell membranes.
Shilajit also contains a variety of bioactive substances with antioxidant effects. Fatigue and low energy levels can result from oxidative stress, brought on by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Shilajit's antioxidants may fight off the fatigue brought on by oxidative stress.
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy source for cells, is produced by mitochondria, the cellular powerhouses. Shilajit may improve mitochondrial function, increasing ATP generation and boosting energy levels.
Chronic stress can contribute to fatigue and exhaustion. Shilajit includes a variety of minerals, including magnesium, zinc, iron, and others. These minerals are necessary for several body processes, including energy metabolism. The reduction of fatigue and support of general energy levels can both be attributed to adequate mineral intake.
A 2012 study examined the effects of Shilajit supplementation on people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The study, done on lab rats, showed that Shilajit was able to help reduce the symptoms of CFS. The researchers hypothesized that Shilajit's ability to improve mitochondrial function led to these improvements.⁴
3. It may help with altitude sickness
Shilajit is an adaptogen, which means it may aid the body in adjusting to various stressors, such as changes in oxygen availability at high elevations. Shilajit may possibly lessen the intensity of altitude sickness symptoms by assisting the body's capacity to handle such stress.
Shilajit contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactive components. These qualities may help prevent oxidative stress and inflammation. Shilajit might lessen symptoms like headache and exhaustion by minimizing these processes. According to some research, Shilajit may increase the body's ability to use oxygen. This might be advantageous at high elevations where oxygen concentrations are low since it might enhance tissue oxygenation and reduce symptoms of oxygen deprivation.⁵
4. May help with male infertility
Male infertility and other male reproductive problems have historically been treated with Shilajit in Ayurvedic therapy. Fulvic acid and trace minerals in purified Shilajit may support spermatogenesis, which is the process by which sperm is produced in the testes.
Shilajit has been shown to increase sperm production and improve sperm quality in several studies using animal models.⁶ Shilajit is well known for its antioxidant activity, which can aid in the body's ability to combat damaging free radicals. Too many free radicals can harm fertility, which harms sperm cells. Shilajit's antioxidants may shield sperm cells from oxidative damage, promoting male reproductive health.
5. Improve heart health
Shilajit might aid in safeguarding the heart and blood vessels by lowering oxidative stress related to cardiovascular disorders.
Heart disease is a condition that is exacerbated by chronic inflammation. Several Shilajit ingredients' anti-inflammatory characteristics may help lessen inflammation in the circulatory system and support heart health.
Heart disease is impacted by high blood pressure. Shilajit may help lower blood pressure, improving the heart's general health.
Research has suggested that Shilajit may benefit lipid metabolism, which would improve lipid profiles by lowering LDL cholesterol levels and raising HDL cholesterol levels (good cholesterol).⁷
Side Effects of Shilajit
Shilajit may have several side effects, including:
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Digestive upset: This may involve an upset stomach, gas, nausea, or diarrhea.
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Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may have skin rashes, itching, or other allergic reactions when exposed to Shilajit or its ingredients.
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Heavy Metal Contamination: Shilajit from specific places or items that have not been adequately prepared may include unhealthy heavy metal contamination. Make sure the Shilajit you use is from a reliable source that does heavy metal content testing.
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Medical Interactions: Shilajit may interact with several medicines, reducing their efficacy or increasing the risk of undesirable side effects.
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Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Levels: Shilajit may have hypotensive and hypoglycemic effects, which both lower blood pressure and blood sugar. Shilajit should only be used with caution and under medical supervision by people with low blood pressure, those using blood pressure or diabetes drugs, or those who have diabetes.
Shilajit FAQs
How much is testosterone increased with shilajit?
How much shilajit will increase testosterone levels depends on a number of factors, including the person's baseline testosterone levels, the dosage of Shilajit used, and personal responses to the supplement. According to some small-scale studies, shilajit intake may result in minor increases in testosterone levels. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Andrologia in 2016 showed that healthy volunteers who received Shilajit dosage for 90 days saw a substantial rise in total testosterone levels compared to a control group.⁸ Another 2016 study indicated that infertile males who took Shilajit supplements exhibited improvements in total testosterone levels as well as other reproductive indicators.
However, it's important to remember that these studies used very small sample sizes. Larger clinical trials are required to validate these results and show the consistency of testosterone level rises with Shilajit. Because everyone reacts to supplements differently, not everyone who uses Shilajit will notice a major difference in their testosterone levels. Shilajit's effects on testosterone levels will be more noticeable in people who have hormonal abnormalities or testosterone deficiency.
For other products designed to help testosterone deficiency, check out our article on the Best Testosterone Boosters.
How long does it take for shilajit to boost testosterone?
There hasn't been much scientific research on how long it takes for Shilajit to boost testosterone levels, so no set time can be given. Many variables, including the person's baseline hormone levels, the dosage of Shilajit used, and the individual responses to the supplement, can affect the length of supplementation and the timing of observable effects.
After using Shilajit supplements for many weeks, participants in some studies saw increases in their testosterone levels. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Andrologia found that healthy male volunteers who received Shilajit dosage for 90 days significantly increased their total testosterone levels.⁹
How to take shilajit for testosterone?
Shilajit is available in various forms, including resin, powder, or capsules. The proper dosage for you will depend on the concentration of the product and your own needs. The generally recommended dosage ranges from 300 to 500 mg per day, taken in two doses.
Choose a high-quality Shilajit product from a reputable brand to ensure purity and safety. Shilajit sourced from reliable regions is less likely to contain harmful contaminants. Some people prefer to take Shilajit in the morning to benefit from its energy-enhancing effects throughout the day potentially. However, no specific time of day is considered the best for Shilajit consumption.
Shilajit can be taken with or without food, depending on personal preference. Some people find it easier to take with meals to avoid any potential stomach discomfort. The duration of Shilajit supplementation may vary depending on individual needs and goals. Some studies have observed effects after several weeks of use, but long-term benefits may require consistent use over an extended period.
Can women take shilajit?
Yes, Shilajit can be taken by women. While women would generally not take it to boost their testosterone levels, Shilajit has other benefits that might make it appealing as a supplement for women. These include reducing fatigue, improving cardiovascular health, and reducing inflammation.
Summary
Shilajit has gained popularity as a testosterone booster largely based on a couple of relatively small studies done in 2016. These studies suggest that it may be able to promote testosterone production in the testes, but more research is needed to confirm this. However, other benefits of Shilajit supplementation, such as cardiovascular health improvement, increased energy levels, and help with altitude sickness, are more firmly established. The recommended dosage of Shilajit is 300-500 mg per day.
Interested in other natural ingredients and their effect on testosterone? Check out our articles on Ashwagandha and Testosterone and Vitamin D and Testosterone.
References
- Biswas, T. K., et al. "Clinical Evaluation of Spermatogenic Activity of Processed Shilajit in Oligospermia." Andrologia, vol. 42, no. 1, 1 Feb. 2010, pp. 48–56
- Pandit, S., et al. "Clinical Evaluation of Purified Shilajit on Testosterone Levels in Healthy Volunteers." Andrologia, vol. 48, no. 5, 22 Sept. 2015, pp. 570–575
- Carrasco-Gallardo, Carlos, et al. "Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity." International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, vol. 2012, 2012, pp. 1–4
- Surapaneni, Dinesh Kumar, et al. “Shilajit Attenuates Behavioral Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by Modulating the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis and Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Rats.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 143, no. 1, 30 Aug. 2012, pp. 91–99
- Meena, Harsahay, et al. "Shilajit: A Panacea for High-Altitude Problems." International Journal of Ayurveda Research, vol. 1, no. 1, 2010, p. 37
- Biswas, T. K., et al. "Clinical Evaluation of Spermatogenic Activity of Processed Shilajit in Oligospermia." Andrologia, vol. 42, no. 1, 1 Feb. 2010, pp. 48–56
- Panat, AV, et al. "Effect of Shilajit on the Heart of Daphnia: A Preliminary Study." Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, vol. 3, no. 1, 2012, p. 3
- Pandit, S., et al. "Clinical Evaluation of Purified Shilajit on Testosterone Levels in Healthy Volunteers." Andrologia, vol. 48, no. 5, 22 Sept. 2015, pp. 570–575
- Pandit, S., et al. "Clinical Evaluation of Purified Shilajit on Testosterone Levels in Healthy Volunteers." Andrologia, vol. 48, no. 5, 22 Sept. 2015, pp. 570–575
Steve Theunissen
Author