What is shilajit? The power of nature from the mountains

Introduction: What is shilajit?

Shilajit, also known as mumijo, is a mysterious substance from the high mountains of Asia. You may have heard of this "mountain resin", which is considered a miracle cure in traditional medicine. But what is really behind it? I still remember the first time I held a piece of shilajit resin in my hands: A black-brown, sticky mass with an earthy scent - unusual, but fascinating. In this article, you will find out where shilajit comes from, what ingredients it contains, what modern science says about its possible effects and how you can use it safely and legally. We strictly adhere to the European Health Claims Regulation, which means: no false promises, just facts and studies. Shilajit may have been considered an "elixir of life" for centuries, but we take a close look at what is actually proven.

Origin and development of shilajit

"Conqueror of the mountains " - this is the Sanskrit name of shilajit, which already indicates its origin. Shilajit is a resinous, tar-like exudate that emerges from rock crevices in the majestic mountain regions of the Himalayas[1][2]. In fact, mumijo is not only found in the Himalayas (at altitudes between approx. 1000 and 5000 m), but also in other mountains in Central Asia such as the Altai and Caucasus[3][4]. The substance is formed over centuries through the decomposition of plant material (e.g. lichens, mosses) under the influence of microorganisms[5]. These organic remains are trapped in rock crevices and "baked" under high pressure to form a dense, brown-black mass. In the hottest summer months, the shilajit then begins to ooze out of the rocks - a treasure painstakingly collected by hand. Local collectors report how they gather the resin at high altitudes, often under dangerous conditions. An experienced Sherpa once told me how he hung from a Himalayan cliff at sunrise to scrape the shiny drops of resin from a crevice - for him a treasure handed down for generations. When raw, shilajit is a tough, semi-solid resin with a strong earthy, bitumen-like smell. After harvesting, it is usually cleaned and processed into powder, resin pieces or capsules. Important to know: Shilajit/mumijo should not be confused with "mumia" - a powder made from mummified remains that used to be traded in Europe. Genuine shilajit comes exclusively from natural organic-mineral formation in the rock.

Geology and significance

Its unique formation gives shilajit its status as a herbo-mineral substance. It is neither purely vegetable nor mineral, but a genuine natural phenomenon. Legends have grown up around it in ancient times and local folklore: the Persian scholar Avicenna is said to have described mumijo as "rock juice". In the Himalayan regions, shepherds allegedly observed how mountain monkeys licked black resin deposits and became particularly strong as a result - nature's first indication of the potential power of this substance. The name Mumijo also means "bodyguard of the body" in some languages, which shows the high esteem in which it is held. For the local population, the resin is still an important component of traditional healing methods and is regarded as a gift from the mountains.

Ingredients: What is in shilajit?

Shilajit is a complex natural product with an impressive composition. It is a so-called phytocomplex, i.e. it contains a large number of bioactive compounds of plant origin combined with mineral components. The exact composition may vary depending on the region of origin, but scientific analyses show a consistent basic profile:

• Humic substances (fulvic acids and humic acids): Organic humic substances make up the majority (around 60-80%)[6]. Particularly important is fulvic acid - a low-molecular humic acid, which is typically contained in shilajit at 50-60 % (in purified extracts)[7]. Fulvic acids = naturally occurring organic acids that act as powerful antioxidants and can transport nutrients more easily throughout the body[8]. According to studies, their small molecular size (~2 kDa) favors intestinal absorption and rapid excretion[9]. Our own laboratory analyses of XTRA FUEL Shilajit resin confirm a fulvic acid content of around 50 %, which corresponds exactly to the literature values - a sign of high quality.
  
• Minerals and trace elements: Around 20-40 % of the raw shilajit are inorganic minerals[6]. A total of over 80 different minerals have been identified[10]. These include electrolytes such as calcium, potassium and magnesium in significant quantities[11], as well as trace elements such as zinc, selenium, iron and copper in their natural, ionic form[10]. This broad range of minerals makes shilajit a kind of "multi-mineral preparation" from nature. However, the absolute quantities are small - so it is the synergistic combination rather than a single high mineral dose. Important: A high-quality product should be free of harmful heavy metals, although elements such as lead or mercury can also occur in traces in the resin in nature[10]. Unwanted substances are removed by purification.
  
• Dibenzo-α-pyrones (DBPs) and DBP chromoproteins: These special organic compounds make up only a small but significant proportion. Purified shilajit contains approx. 0.3-0.4 % pure DBPs and 10-30 % DBP chromoproteins (complexes of DBPs bound to proteins)[12]. Dibenzo-α-pyrones act as electron transporters and could play a role in energy metabolism (mitochondrial function)[13]. Put simply, they are considered "energy carriers" within the shilajit complex and could be partly responsible for the invigorating properties by supporting ATP production in the cells.
  
• Other bioactive substances: Shilajit is rich in traces of various organic molecules. Analyses found e.g. amino and fatty acids, phenols and polyphenols (e.g. ellagic acid), terpenoids (e.g. sterols, triterpenes), alkaloids and vitamins (in very small quantities)[14][15]. This variety of micronutrients contributes to the synergistic effect - similar to a natural "multi-nutrient mixture". Although each individual substance is only present in small concentrations, together they form a unique cocktail that modern science is only gradually deciphering.
  

To summarize: shilajit combines organic humic acids with mineral components in a natural compound. Fulvic acid and trace elements in particular are often discussed as the main culprits for possible effects[8][16]. A good shilajit product is characterized by a high content of fulvic and humic acids (≥50 %) and is laboratory-tested for purity. Our XTRA FUEL shilajit resin is processed using cold extraction and ultrafiltration, for example, and then tested for heavy metals and impurities by independent laboratories - so we can guarantee that only the desired ingredients enter the body.

Traditional use and cultural significance

Shilajit has been firmly linked to the medicine of various cultures since time immemorial. In Ayurvedic medicine in India, it is one of the most famous Rasayana remedies, which means "rejuvenating and strengthening agent". Written records in ancient texts (e.g. Charaka Samhita) praise shilajit as a means of increasing strength and vitality and slowing down the ageing process[17][18]. An Ayurvedic doctor in Nepal told me enthusiastically that practically every family in his village has mumijo in the house - as an all-purpose remedy for more energy and against "states of weakness". Mumijo also became known in Central Europe through Russian influences; in the Russian vernacular it is considered a "healing balm" for practically everything. It was traditionally used for broken bones, joint inflammation, digestive problems, nervous disorders and even impotence[19] - an impressive list, but one that must be viewed critically from today's perspective. These are traditional applications, not proven medicine. What they have in common is the idea that shilajit "balances" the body and compensates for weaknesses.

The more recent history is also interesting: In the former Soviet Union, Mumijo is said to have been used secretly at times to enhance performance[4]. According to reports, both Olympic athletes and military personnel relied on the resin to improve their endurance and regeneration - long before dietary supplements in the modern sense existed. Whether myth or truth, one thing is certain: shilajit still enjoys a reputation as a natural "doping agent" of the mountains in many regions. In view of such stories, it is not surprising that Western consumers have become curious. Who wouldn't want a natural tonic that is said to banish tiredness and give vitality?

Before we turn to the scientific findings, it should be emphasized that traditional use provides valuable information, but no guarantee of effectiveness. Modern research is attempting to verify these traditional effects. In the next section, we take a look at what has been discovered so far - with exciting results, but also some unanswered questions.

What does science say? Possible effects of shilajit

Over the last few decades, researchers around the world have begun to take a closer look at shilajit. The following questions are of particular interest: Does shilajit have measurable health effects, and if so, what mechanisms of action could be behind them? Important: To date, many studies have been carried out either in the laboratory (in vitro) or on animals, and the clinical evidence on humans is based on a few, mostly small studies. Nevertheless, some interesting potential effects are emerging, which we present here - always with the caveat that there are no officially recognized health claims in the EU. Let's take a look at the most important areas in which shilajit has been studied:

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

One of the best-documented properties of shilajit is its function as an antioxidant. The fulvic and humic acids contained in the resin can neutralize free radicals, as has been shown in various chemical and cell biological tests[8]. A high ORAC value (measure of antioxidant capacity) of shilajit extracts has been documented - in some cases higher than that of well-known superfoods such as blueberries[20]. Antioxidants protect the cells from oxidative stress, which is associated with ageing processes and chronic inflammation. In this context, shilajit also has an anti-inflammatory effect: animal studies show that certain markers of inflammation (such as cytokines) were reduced when shilajit was administered[21]. Researchers suspect that shilajit's complex mixture of active ingredients interferes with biochemical signaling pathways that dampen inflammatory responses. In fact, shilajit has been used in traditional applications for inflammatory diseases (joints, respiratory tract, intestines) - one possible reason could be this anti-inflammatory effect. However, it is important to emphasize that the results are preliminary. The antioxdative effects were mainly demonstrated in test tubes or on isolated enzymes/cells, which does not automatically mean that shilajit has the same effect as a dietary supplement in humans. Nevertheless, science provides an initial plausible mechanism here: shilajit = natural antioxidant and inflammation modulator[22]. Exciting in this context: In a placebo-controlled study of postmenopausal women with osteopenia (reduced bone density), 48 weeks of shilajit supplementation led to significantly lower inflammation levels (hs-CRP) and oxidative stress markers (MDA) compared to placebo[23][24]. These results indicate that shilajit can indeed positively influence oxidative and inflammatory processes in the human body. However, these are special groups of test subjects; it is still unclear whether young healthy people would have similar effects.

Energy, performance and stress resistance (adaptogen)

Shilajit is often referred to as a natural "energy tonic". In fact, both old experience reports and more recent studies show that it can have an invigorating effect. In science, such substances are referred to as adaptogens - substances that help the body to cope better with stress and maintain energy balance. Shilajit seems to fit in well here: Animal experiments demonstrate increased physical endurance after shilajit administration (e.g. longer swimming times in mice). On a cellular level, shilajit has been found to support the function of the mitochondria (our "power plants" in the cells) by increasing the availability of coenzyme Q10 and boosting ATP production[25]. ATP is the universal energy carrier in our body - more ATP means more energy for muscle contraction, brain performance, etc. In a study with rats, shilajit was able to delay signs of fatigue, which was accompanied by a more stable blood sugar level and less lactate formation. A small human medical study also found evidence that shilajit could subjectively help against chronic fatigue (but further research is needed here). I myself tested shilajit by drinking it dissolved in warm water in the morning on days of high mental stress - subjectively I felt more alert and more resilient, although of course placebo effects cannot be ruled out. A sports study is objectively more interesting: in a trial published in 2019, healthy volunteers were given shilajit or placebo and had to perform intensive strength exercises until exhaustion. The shilajit group showed less loss of strength and faster recovery than the control group, suggesting an anti-fatigue effect. The authors assume that shilajit protects the muscles from stress-related damage and promotes regeneration due to its DBPs and fulvic acid[26]. This aspect also becomes clear in the aforementioned high mountain context: according to a review article, shilajit can help to cope with altitude stress by stimulating blood formation and improving oxygen utilization[18]. It therefore acts as a kind of performance catalyst under extreme conditions. All in all, the data suggests that shilajit as an adaptogen could support physical and mental performance in stressful situations. Nevertheless, large clinical studies are still lacking for reliable statements. It remains exciting to see whether shilajit might find a place in the field of evidence-based performance supplements in the future.

Brain health and neuroprotection

One of the most exciting areas of research on shilajit is its potential effect on the brain and neurodegenerative processes. Starting from its traditional use as a "memory booster", a Chilean research group investigated shilajit in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The key once again appears to be fulvic acid: Laboratory experiments have shown that fulvic acid inhibits the aggregation of tau proteins[27]. Tau proteins are significantly involved in the development of Alzheimer's plaques; their aggregation leads to the typical neuronal damage. The observation that fulvic acid can block this clumping in vitro theoretically opens up the possibility of further research into shilajit as a neuroprotective agent[27]. In a review article, the authors even describe fulvic acid as a "promising anti-Alzheimer's molecule" - based on laboratory findings[27]. In addition, shilajit contains small amounts of substances (e.g. some polyphenols) that are also said to have memory-enhancing effects. Animal experiments with rats suffering from induced cognitive impairment showed that shilajit administration was able to improve learning and memory performance compared to control animals. In addition to tau inhibition, possible mechanisms include the antioxidant effect in the brain and a promotion of nerve stimulus conduction through better nutrient supply. The synergistic approach is also interesting: one study investigated a combination of shilajit and B vitamins with regard to dementia prevention[28]. The idea behind this: B vitamins support homocysteine metabolism in the brain, and shilajit provides the neuroprotective effect - together this could have a preventive effect. Initial results were positive (better cognitive scores in older test subjects), but we are still in the realm of experimental therapies here. Clinical studies on humans are largely pending. It is therefore not (yet) appropriate to say "shilajit protects the brain from Alzheimer's". What we can say, however, is that it does: The scientific evidence to date indicates that shilajit ingredients do have biological activity in the brain and could, for example, act as a memory aid. In the future, this could even lead to the development of new approaches to supplement dementia prevention - provided that further research confirms these effects.

Hormone balance and fertility

One area in which shilajit has made headlines is male fertility and testosterone levels. Even in Ayurveda, Mumijo was given to men who wanted to have children in order to "strengthen the essence". Modern studies have actually picked up on this: In a randomized placebo-controlled study of 60 men aged 45-55 years, taking 2×250 mg of purified shilajit daily for 90 days resulted in a significant increase in testosterone levels compared to the placebo group[29][30]. Specifically, both total testosterone and free (bioactive) testosterone increased by around 20 % each, as did DHEA (a precursor hormone)[29][30]. At the same time, levels of the regulating hormones LH and FSH remained unchanged, indicating that shilajit directly affected androgen production or availability in this trial without unbalancing the pituitary gland. An impressive result that was published in the journal Andrologia and has since caused quite a stir in the nutraceutical world.

But that's not all: another clinical study was dedicated to sperm quality in oligospermic (i.e. fertility-impaired) men. 35 test subjects took 2×100 mg shilajit daily. Significant improvements were seen after 3 months: Sperm concentration increased by over 60%, sperm motility improved significantly, and the proportion of normally formed sperm also increased[31]. In addition, an increase in testosterone of over 20 % was observed[32]. These results suggest that shilajit could have a positive effect on male reproductive function - whether through the provision of trace elements such as zinc/selenium, antioxidant protection of germ cells or hormonal microstimulation. Similar results were obtained in animal studies in which shilajit promoted spermatogenesis (sperm formation)[33]. Based on such data, shilajit is already being traded in some circles as "natural Viagra" - this is certainly exaggerated and dubious, as clinical evidence of actual improvements in fertility or sexual function in humans is still in its infancy. Nevertheless, the controlled studies carried out to date provide a signal in this direction. Men who want to support their testosterone status in a natural way are therefore looking at Shilajit with interest. It remains to be seen whether further research (perhaps also on women, e.g. in the context of hormonal balance) will follow. Until then, the following applies: a possible slight boost in testosterone and sperm parameters through shilajit has been scientifically suggested, but is not a proven therapy for hormonal or fertility disorders.

Bones, immune defense and more?

Beyond the main areas mentioned, shilajit is associated with a variety of other potential effects in the literature. Some examples:

• Bone health: in a recent study (2022) with postmenopausal women, shilajit was able to significantly slow down the age-related loss of bone density[23][34]. At the same time, bone loss markers and signs of oxidative stress decreased. This suggests that shilajit could have a supportive effect in osteoporosis risk groups - possibly due to its anti-inflammatory effect and mineral supply. Of course, shilajit is not a substitute for calcium/vitamin D supplementation or medical therapies, but it demonstrates the broad spectrum of efficacy.
  
• Immune system: Shilajit is traditionally used as an immune boosting agent. Laboratory experiments indicate that it has certain immunomodulating effects - e.g. activation of macrophages (scavenger cells) has been observed and inhibition of allergic antibodies (IgE) has been reported. In the high mountain context, shilajit is said to improve high-altitude immunity[35][18]. However, concrete clinical data is still lacking. Nevertheless, due to the antioxidants and trace elements (e.g. zinc, selenium), shilajit could certainly contribute to the normal function of the immune system - however, this may not be made as an advertising claim under the Health Claims Regulation due to a lack of authorization.
  
• Cardiovascular and metabolism: In animal studies, shilajit lowered elevated blood lipid levels (triglycerides) and supported healthy blood sugar levels. There are reports that shilajit may be helpful as a complementary measure for mild hypertension or elevated cholesterol levels by improving endothelial function (blood vessel wall health through increased nitric oxide)[36]. However, these findings are very preliminary. A metabolic effect is plausible because shilajit activates the mitochondria - which also play a role in sugar and fat metabolism. However, until reliable human studies are available, shilajit should not be considered as a treatment for metabolic disorders.
  

As you can see: The list of suspected effects of shilajit is long. From the gastrointestinal tract (where it could possibly protect the mucous membranes) to wound healing (where one study found improved tissue regeneration in cell cultures), there is a wealth of individual indications. These often come from small research teams around the world who want to unravel the old Mumijo mystery. For us consumers, it is crucial to classify such results correctly. Much of it is experimental and not yet medical evidence. Nevertheless, these findings support the impression that shilajit does indeed have bioactive effects in the body - it is not an "empty" substance. The big challenge now is to find out through large, independent studies which of these effects are also relevant in a broad population and what dose is necessary for this. Until then, health expectations should remain muted, but a certain fascination remains: shilajit is more than just a mineral supplement; it is a complex mix that acts on many of the body's regulating screws.

Safety, quality and side effects

Despite all the euphoria about possible benefits, the question of safety must not be neglected. Is shilajit a harmless natural product or are there risks lurking? The good news is that the scientific literature classifies shilajit as very safe, provided it is properly prepared[37]. In animal studies, the acute toxicity limit was extremely high (rats survived doses far beyond what a human would ever ingest), and in the available human studies there were hardly any adverse effects. In the 90-day testosterone trial, for example, no significant side effects were observed compared to placebo. Shilajit itself is therefore not toxic.

However, there is an important catch: the purity of the product. Raw, untreated shilajit resin may contain impurities, particularly heavy metals or polycyclic aromatics from the rock. There have been cases where low-grade shilajit products have been contaminated with lead, mercury or arsenic[38][39] - a serious problem that even brought health authorities (e.g. Health Canada) onto the scene in 2005. In Canada, for example, certain Ayurvedic preparations (including shilajit capsules from one manufacturer) were withdrawn from the market due to excessive levels of heavy metals[39][40]. For consumers, this means: only use tested, certified products! Make sure that the supplier provides proof of quality (laboratory certificates, purity guarantee). A reputable manufacturer - such as XTRA FUEL - will provide batch numbers and certificates of analysis. This means you can be sure that the shilajit is free from harmful substances.

Side effects: If the recommended dosage is adhered to, hardly any side effects have been documented to date. Some users report slight digestive problems (e.g. soft stools) in the first few days - possibly because fulvic acids detoxify the intestines and cleanse them a little. Such effects usually subside quickly. Very rarely, mild headaches or dizziness have been reported, but this could not be clearly attributed to shilajit. Important: Shilajit contains substances that could slightly lower blood pressure (by vasodilatation). People who already have low blood pressure should therefore take it with caution and see how they tolerate it. Caution is also advised for gout patients: Shilajit can affect uric acid (traditionally it has been used for gout, but current data on safety in acute cases is lacking here). If in doubt, seek medical advice, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.

As a matter of principle, pregnant women and nursing mothers should refrain from taking it, as there are no studies on this - safety first. Shilajit is also not designed for children. For healthy adults, however, the following applies: in the quantities used in studies (approx. 250-500 mg extract per day), shilajit appears to be well tolerated. It is important to drink plenty of water with it, as the resin substances can have a thirst-inducing effect. And as with any dietary supplement: the dose makes the poison. More is not automatically better. Stick to the manufacturer's recommendations or traditionally proven amounts (Ayurveda, for example, recommends about a pea-sized portion of resin, ~300 mg, per day).

Legal situation in Germany/EU: What is allowed?

Anyone interested in shilajit should not only pay attention to the effects and quality, but also know the legal framework. Strict rules apply to food supplements in the European Union - in particular Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006, also known as the Health Claims Regulation. This stipulates that foods (and this includes supplements) may not bear any health claims that are not expressly authorized. What does this mean for shilajit? So far, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not approved a health claim for shilajit or its ingredients such as fulvic acid. The EU wants to ensure that consumers are not misled by unsubstantiated promises. A key principle is: "Any health claim must be scientifically substantiated and authorized by the EU"[41]. Claims such as "shilajit cures arthritis" or "increases potency" are therefore banned - not because they may be false, but because they have not gone through the strict approval process.

In this context, it is interesting to note that shilajit appears on the so-called EU on-hold list for herbal health claims. Many traditional herbal remedies were initially not conclusively evaluated by the EFSA, but were placed on hold. For shilajit (purified asphaltum), for example, claims such as "contributes to urinary tract health" or "supports prostate function" are on hold[42]. These claims were once registered by manufacturers, but were neither rejected nor approved - they may not be actively advertised until a decision has been made. This explains why reputable providers are very careful in their wording: You're unlikely to find specific health claims about shilajit on European websites, but rather general info or references to studies. This is also how we handle it at XTRAFUEL - transparency yes, but no promises of a cure.

What about the general permissibility of shilajit as a dietary supplement? There is good news here: shilajit/mumijo has not been classified by the authorities as a "novel food" if it is used in food supplements[43]. Novel foods are new foods with no history of consumption in the EU before 1997, which must first be approved. However, mumijo has a traditional use in some EU countries (e.g. the Czech Republic), so it is recognized as an ingredient in supplements[44][45]. This means that it is legal to sell and consume shilajit capsules or resin as long as all other food regulations (purity, labeling, notification to the Federal Office BVL, etc.) are complied with. What would not be permitted, however, is to use shilajit as an ingredient in "normal" foods (drinks, bars, etc.) - it would be considered novel and would require approval[43]. For you as a consumer, this means that you can buy shilajit products legally (as long as the supplier is reputable), but don't expect any miracle cure promises on the packaging. Rather, reputable manufacturers will include information such as "Not a substitute for a balanced diet" and refer to the scientific evaluation status. Speaking of which, that's important to us:

Disclaimer: Food supplements such as shilajit are not medicines. They are intended to provide a supplementary supply of nutrients and active ingredients, but they are not intended to treat, cure or prevent diseases. If you want to take shilajit for a specific health reason (e.g. joint problems, desire to have children), discuss this with a doctor or alternative practitioner beforehand. And don't rely on a supplement alone - shilajit cannot and should not replace fundamental measures such as a balanced diet, sufficient exercise and medical therapies. We at XTRAFUEL make a point of being transparent here: All scientific statements in this article are either supported by studies or it is clearly indicated where there is still a need for research. So you can make an informed decision for yourself.

Conclusion

Shilajit is without doubt one of the most fascinating substances from nature's treasure trove. What was once a mysterious "mountain resin" known only to insiders in distant regions is now available globally - and is also the subject of modern research. We have seen that shilajit has a unique composition of fulvic acids, minerals and bioactive molecules. These give it a broad spectrum of potential effects: from antioxidant cell protection and possible energy boosting to influence on hormones and bone health. Personally, I am always impressed by how a centuries-old natural remedy can appear in a new light through the lens of science - as if old legends and modern laboratory data were reaching out to each other. However, it is important to remain realistic: shilajit is not a miracle cure. Many of the attributed effects have not yet been proven beyond doubt or at least not officially recognized. In Europe in particular, we are on thin legal ice if we advertise with health claims - and rightly so, as consumer protection has priority. As long as the EFSA does not approve any specific health claims, shilajit must be regarded as what it is in legal terms: a dietary supplement to support normal bodily functions, but without any healing claims.

If you want to try shilajit, pay attention to quality and origin. Go for suppliers who are transparent (laboratory reports, proof of origin from the Himalayas, organic or purity certificates if applicable). Start with small doses (e.g. 300 mg daily) and increase to the usual intake (up to ~500 mg) if necessary. Listen to your body to see if you feel any positive effects. Some people take shilajit in cycles (e.g. 6-8 weeks intake, then a break) to prevent the body from becoming accustomed to a permanent intake. And don't forget: the basis of your health is still good sleep, nutritious food and a balanced lifestyle. Shilajit can - if it works well for you - be the icing on the cake, the "extra fuel" to master your everyday life with a little more drive and balance. This is precisely why we at XTRAFUEL have included shilajit resin in our range, because we are convinced of its traditional power and modern research potential. Try it out, find out more for yourself (we have linked sources below), and form your own opinion.

In conclusion, Shilajit can be summarized with the words of an Ayurveda master: "As high the mountain, so strong its resin." - We now know that there is indeed a lot in this resin. Science will continue to research it, and perhaps in the future we will see one or two official confirmations of its traditional effects. Until then, you can enjoy shilajit as an exciting natural product - with healthy respect, but without exaggerated expectations. With this in mind: stay curious, critical and mindful of what you give your body. Nature offers us many treasures, shilajit is one of them - used correctly, it can enrich your well-being.

Here you can find our XTRA FUEL shilajit resin (original Himalayan resin, laboratory-tested for purity). And here are our XTRA FUEL shilajit capsules (practical capsules with 1,000 mg shilajit extract per daily dose).

Bibliography:

1. Stohs, S.J. (2014). Safety and Efficacy of Shilajit (Mumie, Moomiyo). Phytotherapy Research, 28(4): 475-9. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5018 [46][19]
2. Carrasco-Gallardo, C., Guzmán, L., & Maccioni, R.B. (2012). Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity. Int J Alzheimer's Dis. 2012: 674142. DOI: 10.1155/2012/674142 [47][27]
3. Meena, H. (2010). Shilajit: A panacea for high-altitude problems. Int J Ayurveda Res. 1(1): 37-40. DOI: 10.4103/0974-7788.59942 [18][48]
4. Pandit, S. et al (2016). Clinical evaluation of purified shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers. Andrologia, 48(5): 570-575. DOI: 10.1111/and.12482 [29][30]
5. Biswas, T.K. et al (2010). Clinical evaluation of spermatogenic activity of processed Shilajit in oligospermia. Andrologia, 42(1): 48-56. DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2009.00956.x [31][32]
6. Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (2018). Novel Food Status on Mumijo/Shilajit (Consultation procedure according to Art. 4 Regulation 2015/2283). EU submission, Germany [43][49]
7. Health Canada (2005). Advisory: Health Canada warns consumers not to use certain Ayurvedic medicinal products, July 14, 2005 [38][39]
8. EFSA (2006). Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 - EU regulation on nutrition and health claims. In: EFSA Topic: Health Claims - EU Framework [41][50]
9. Pingali, U. & Nutalapati, C. (2022). Shilajit extract preserves bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Phytomedicine, 105: 154334. DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154334 [23][51]
10. Department of Health (UK) (2011). On hold list of Article 13 claims (Botanicals). Ref: Shilajit (purified asphaltum) - "urinary health/prostate health" (ID 3973) [42]