Shilajit is a natural substance that is dark and resinous, used in Ayurvedic medicine. In Australia, there’s been an interest in shilajit benefits for its potential to support energy, exercise performance, male reproductive health, and healthy ageing. But the facts aren’t as clear as the supplements claim.
There is a small but growing body of research on humans that suggests several potential applications; however, most of this research focuses on particular purified or standardised extracts. They cannot be directly used from one trial to another resin or capsule type available in the market. This guide provides information on shilajit benefits, where the evidence is most convincing and where it is less certain, and what Australians should look out for when purchasing shilajit. If you have any questions about shilajit benefits, product quality, or choosing the right option, contact Shilajit Australia for more information and guidance.
The most well-supported health claims associated with shilajit are its effects on testosterone in certain middle-aged males, the prevention of strength loss during exercise, its potential benefits on sperm parameters and bone mineral density in post-menopausal women with osteopenia. While these results are encouraging, shilajit is not a remedy for diseases or a substitute for medical treatment.
Minerals and other organic compounds are present, as well as humic substances, including fulvic compounds, in Shilajit. It may have a wide range of chemical constituents depending on its geographical origin and the way in which it is processed.
One of the more popular shilajit benefits for men is from the results of a randomised, double blind placebo controlled study of healthy men between the ages of 45-55.
The purified shilajit (250 mg twice a day, for 90 days) group had higher levels of total testosterone, free testosterone, and DHEAS than the placebo group.
That doesn’t mean that shilajit is a universal testosterone booster. A variety of factors can lead to low levels of testosterone and if symptoms like low libido, unusual fatigue or loss of strength persist, they should be evaluated medically.
In a 2019 study, recreationally active men who took 500 mg of shilajit each day for 8 weeks experienced a smaller decrease in their maximal strength after a fatiguing exercise protocol when compared to the placebo group, especially in those who were stronger. This wasn’t the same for the smaller dose.
This is also covered by research published in 2026. A 28-day open-label pilot study with 25 healthy male participants showed that there were strength, endurance and fatigue improvements in participants who consumed shilajit resin. The study did not include a placebo group, however, so it can’t prove that the improvements were solely due to shilajit.
In short, for active people, shilajit could be a good option to consider, but not a substitute for proper sleep, protein, water and a workout routine.
Male reproductive health is another area being studied.
A small clinical study in men with low sperm count (oligospermia) showed that after 90 days of processed shilajit, sperm count, motility and levels of the hormone testosterone improved. The results are preliminary, as only 28 participants finished the treatment.
It is not advisable to promote Shilajit as a proven fertility treatment. Many factors could be affecting a woman’s ability to conceive as well, including hormonal, genetic, anatomical and lifestyle issues, so it’s best to get professional advice rather than using supplements.
There is much less research on the potential benefits to females, but there is one controlled trial with a fascinating finding.
Sixty women, ages 45 to 65, were followed over 48 weeks who had osteopenia. The women who took the regular-dose shilajit experienced a lower drop in bone mineral density at the femoral neck and lumbar spine when compared to those taking the placebo.
This finding is particular to postmenopausal women with osteopenia. It should not be recommended for all women and shilajit should not be used as a substitute for calcium, vitamin D, resistance exercise, osteoporosis screening or prescription treatment when clinically indicated.
Shilajit is often touted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well as its “anti-ageing” qualities.
Biological reasons for interest exist based on laboratory and animal studies and some human studies report beneficial effects on markers related to oxidative stress or inflammation. But there are other reviews that have pointed out the scarcity of well-controlled human research.
While changes in biomarkers are important, they are not the same as proving that shilajit can prevent chronic diseases or prolong lifespan. Claims of immunity, memory, detoxification and longevity will need significantly more evidence.
Product quality deserves as much attention as the potential benefits.
Published research has identified heavy metals including lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury in shilajit samples, with some studies reporting concentrations above recommended limits. This makes purification and contaminant testing particularly important.
When comparing products, look for:
Many complementary medicines legally supplied in Australia are included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). An AUST L number identifies a listed medicine, but listed medicines are generally not individually evaluated by the TGA for efficacy before entering the market. Sponsors must hold evidence supporting permitted claims.
Purified or standardised shilajit has, in general, been reasonably tolerated in short- to medium-term human studies, although there is limited long-term safety data.
One of the most significant practical issues is that the composition or contamination in poorly controlled products is inconsistent. The term “natural” does not necessarily mean “safe”.
Do not use shilajit during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, if taking prescription medications, if you have any ongoing medical condition or if you are under investigation for any hormonal, fertility or bone-health issues; always consult a doctor or pharmacist. The TGA also recommends that Australians inform health care professionals of their use of complementary medicines as medicines and supplements can interact.
Recent studies indicate that shilajit benefits can support certain areas of male hormone health, exercise performance, markers of male fertility and postmenopausal bone health. There is no conclusive evidence, but some is promising and the quality of the product can make a significant difference to safety.
For those who consume Shilajit Australia, the logical next move is to conduct a comparison of the different products based on the process of purification, independent testing, and transparency in labelling, not miracles of health. If you have an underlying medical condition or are on a prescription drug, consult a health care professional before using. Stay connected with Shilajit Australia on Facebook for the latest updates, wellness tips, product information, and insights about shilajit benefits.
There is no universal timeframe. Human trials reporting potential benefits have generally used shilajit for several weeks to around three months or longer.
Research is most promising for testosterone levels in some middle-aged men, exercise fatigue resistance and selected sperm parameters, although the overall evidence remains limited.
Research is less extensive. One controlled trial found that a standardised shilajit extract helped preserve bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.
Some performance studies suggest possible improvements in fatigue resistance, but describing shilajit simply as an “energy booster” goes beyond the available evidence.
Avoid shilajit while pregnant or breastfeeding. No controlled trials, contamination risk, and one case links use to high blood pressure. Inform your…
Australia-focused look at shilajit gummies: what human trials actually show, how 500 mg/day dosing compares, and why batch COAs and TGA safety checks matter.
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