Shilajit

Also known as silajit, shilajeet, mumijo.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Shilajit?

In plain words

Shilajit is a dark, sticky material found in mountain rocks that contains minerals and substances formed from decomposed living matter. The body absorbs some of its components, but how the whole mixture is processed is not well understood. Researchers study it for possible effects on fatigue, hormone levels, and bone health. Human evidence is limited, and some products can contain harmful heavy metals.

Technical definition

Shilajit is a chemically variable, mineral-rich organic exudate found in mountain rock formations, produced through the long-term transformation of plant and microbial material and containing humic substances, including fulvic acids. It has no established single molecular target or receptor; proposed antioxidant and metabolic mechanisms are largely based on laboratory and animal research. It is marketed as a dietary supplement in the United States and is not FDA-approved to treat disease.

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Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.