ByYou’ve probably heard the buzz about Shilajit — this “miracle resin” from the Himalayas that promises more energy, better focus, and even higher testosterone.
But here’s the real question most people never ask: Why is Shilajit Dangerous?
Did You Know?
Shilajit promotes better nutrient absorption
If you’ve been thinking about trying it, you might be wondering whether all those glowing claims are actually safe.
The truth is, many Shilajit products out there are poorly processed, contaminated with heavy metals, or just plain fake.
And that’s exactly the problem: you want to feel healthier, stronger, or more energized, but the wrong product could actually do more harm than good.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through the risks, break down the science behind its side effects, and show you exactly how to choose and use Shilajit safely.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know how to enjoy the benefits without falling into the traps that so many others have.
What Is Shilajit and Why Do People Take It
Shilajit is a blackish-brown resin that comes from high mountain rocks, mainly in the Himalayas. It forms over centuries from decomposed plants and minerals.
People take it for energy, strength, stamina, and sexual health. It contains fulvic acid, humic acid, and minerals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
But here’s the catch: if it’s unpurified or fake, Shilajit can be toxic. The same compounds that make it effective can also make it dangerous.
You should know the basic Shilajit authenticity tests before buying it.
Why Shilajit Can Be Dangerous
While authentic, purified Shilajit can be safe in small doses, most products available online do not meet proper safety standards and often do not provide a detailed ingredient sheet showing quality and purity. The main risks come from contamination, adulteration, and misuse.
1. Unprocessed or Raw Shilajit May Contain Heavy Metals
Raw or unpurified Shilajit can contain harmful substances such as lead, mercury, and arsenic — all toxic even in small amounts.
These metals can accumulate in your body over time and cause serious damage to organs like the liver and kidneys.
Before taking Shilajit, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted concerns about heavy metal contamination in herbal and Ayurvedic products.
Studies of commercial Shilajit have found varying levels of toxic metals due to improper purification or poor-quality sourcing.
Potential effects of contaminated Shilajit:
- Kidney and liver dysfunction
- Nerve toxicity or neurological issues
- Elevated blood pressure
- Fatigue and chronic inflammation
If your Shilajit does not come from a verified, third-party tested source, it can easily become a source of heavy metal exposure instead of a health tonic.
2. Fake and Adulterated Shilajit Products
The global demand for Shilajit has led to a surge of counterfeit or synthetic products. Some sellers mix asphalt, bitumen, or chemical additives to mimic the look and texture of natural Shilajit resin.
Fake Shilajit may smell chemical, fail to dissolve completely in warm water, or contain petroleum byproducts.
Consuming these products can irritate your digestive system, overwork your liver, and cause nausea or vomiting.
On YouTube, you may have seen videos showing Shilajit resin forming long strands or threads over a foot in length.
This is not possible with pure Shilajit — authentic resin never forms such long, sticky threads.
If the Shilajit stretches over a meter, it likely contains sugar or other additives. You should avoid products like this.
When shopping online, be cautious of “cheap” or “instant energy” Shilajit. Authentic, purified Shilajit is expensive to source and process. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Overdose or Improper Use
Even genuine Shilajit can be harmful if taken in excess. The recommended daily dose is typically 250–500 mg, depending on your body and health needs. Many people take more in the hope of faster results, which is risky.
Overuse can increase uric acid levels, potentially causing gout or kidney stones. It may also lead to dizziness, elevated heart rate, and digestive issues like bloating or diarrhea.
Some users combine Shilajit with testosterone boosters or stimulants, which can amplify hormonal imbalances and put extra stress on the cardiovascular system. Shilajit is a potent bioactive compound — it should never be treated like a simple vitamin.
Who Should Avoid Shilajit
Shilajit is not suitable for everyone. Certain individuals are more vulnerable to its side effects and should either avoid it entirely or consult a healthcare professional before use:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women – Shilajit may affect hormonal balance and fetal development.
- Children and adolescents under 18 – Their bodies are still developing, and Shilajit is not recommended.
- Women during menstruation – It can interfere with hormone regulation and may cause discomfort.
- Adults over 70 – Shilajit is generally unnecessary for this age group and could pose health risks.
- Individuals with heart, kidney, or liver conditions – Shilajit can put additional stress on these organs.
- People with high uric acid or gout – Overuse may worsen symptoms.
- Those taking prescription medications, especially for diabetes, blood pressure, or hormonal treatments, should consult with these drugs.
- Anyone planning pregnancy or trying to conceive for more than a year – It may affect fertility and hormone balance. Shilajit is not safe for pregnant women.
Because Shilajit influences metabolism and hormones, do not combine it with strong medications, supplements, or other adaptogens without medical guidance.
Always check with a healthcare professional before adding it to your routine.
What Science Says About the Shilajit Risks
Several studies have highlighted potential safety issues with unregulated Shilajit supplements. I have attached the link in the references.
In one analysis, researchers found detectable levels of lead and arsenic in commercial Shilajit sold online.
The findings underline the lack of quality control and the risks of buying from unknown or non-certified brands.
In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued warnings to several companies making unapproved claims that Shilajit products could cure or prevent COVID-19.
Such marketing violates supplement safety regulations and misleads consumers into believing Shilajit is a medically approved treatment.
The truth is: Shilajit is not FDA-approved for any therapeutic purpose. It may support wellness when purified and used responsibly, but it is not a guaranteed cure for any disease.
The gap between traditional use and modern commercialization creates the greatest risk for consumers.
Myths vs Facts About Shilajit Safety
| Myth | Reality |
| All Shilajit is natural and safe | Only purified, lab-tested Shilajit is safe |
| Higher dosage gives faster results | Overdose increases toxicity and kidney strain |
| Shilajit boosts testosterone instantly | Evidence is limited, and results vary from person to person |
| Shilajit is FDA-approved | No herbal supplement is FDA-approved for medical claims |
| Taking high doses of Shilajit will give faster or better results. | Lower, controlled doses of Shilajit are safer and more effective. |
Understanding these facts helps consumers make informed choices instead of falling for exaggerated online claims.
How to Take Shilajit Safely and Responsibly
If you still want to include Shilajit in your wellness routine, consider these safety steps:
- Buy from certified brands only – Look for supplements that publish lab reports (Certificate of Analysis) verifying heavy metal and microbial testing.
- Prefer purified forms – Shilajit should go through multiple purification stages to remove toxins. Avoid raw or rock-collected resins sold online.
- Follow the dosage – Start with 250 mg daily and never exceed 500 mg unless recommended by a healthcare professional.
- Timing matters – Take it on an empty stomach in the morning with warm water or milk for best absorption.
- Avoid combinations – Don’t mix Shilajit with alcohol, caffeine-heavy pre-workouts, or hormonal supplements.
Shilajit should be treated like a supplement that requires discipline and awareness, not a miracle shortcut.
Shilajit Side Effects to Watch
Even when using purified Shilajit, mild side effects can occur. Common issues include nausea, rash, upset stomach, or increased heart rate. If you experience any of these, stop taking it immediately. Temporary stool passing.
More serious reactions, such as severe fatigue, joint pain, or yellowing of the eyes, may signal heavy metal buildup — in which case, medical consultation and testing are essential.
Long-term misuse or consumption of contaminated products can cause irreversible organ stress.
Regulatory and Quality Perspective
Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, herbal supplements like Shilajit are not tightly regulated in most countries.
This means manufacturing standards can vary dramatically between brands.
The FDA and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) require that products sold as dietary supplements not make unverified medical claims.
However, many online sellers ignore this rule, using vague phrases like “anti-aging” or “hormone balancing.”
Always check if the product is manufactured in a GMP-certified facility and whether it has been third-party tested for purity. A transparent brand will publish certificates and testing results publicly.
Conclusion
Today, we explored whether Shilajit is harmful — and by now, you should clearly understand that Shilajit itself isn’t inherently dangerous, but careless manufacturing, fake products, and improper use can make it risky.
Its benefits are real only when the product is pure, verified, and taken within safe limits.
The biggest mistake many consumers make is assuming that “natural” automatically means “harmless.” In truth, Shilajit is a bioactive compound with strong physiological effects — it deserves both respect and caution.
If you’re buying Shilajit in the U.S., U.K., or Europe, always choose a third-party lab-tested brand and stay away from companies making unrealistic or unscientific claims. And before adding it to your daily routine, consult your healthcare provider.
Used wisely, Shilajit can support energy and vitality. Used carelessly, it can do more harm than good.
Always research before you buy, understand what your body needs, and make informed choices.
FAQs
Is Shilajit dangerous for the kidneys?
Yes, if contaminated or taken in excess, it can increase the burden on the kidneys and elevate uric acid levels.
Why is unprocessed Shilajit unsafe?
Unprocessed Shilajit may contain heavy metals, soil residues, and microbial contaminants that can damage internal organs.
Can women take Shilajit safely?
Women can take purified Shilajit in small doses, but should avoid it during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or if they have hormonal disorders.
How can I verify purity before buying?
Check for a third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA), GMP manufacturing, and absence of heavy metals in lab reports.
Is shilajit liver toxic?
Shilajit itself isn’t liver toxic, but unpurified or contaminated Shilajit can damage the liver due to heavy metal or chemical residues.
References:
Hussain A, Saeed A. “Hazardous or Advantageous: Uncovering the Roles of Heavy Metals and Humic Substances in Shilajit (Phyto-mineral) with Emphasis on Heavy Metals Toxicity and Their Detoxification Mechanisms.” Biological Trace Element Research. 2024.
This paper provides a broad survey of heavy metal profiles in Shilajit, discusses detoxification mechanisms by humic substances, and highlights the variability of contamination across samples. ResearchGate+1
“Uncovering the Roles of Heavy Metals and Humic Substances in Shilajit.” PubMed / NCBI.
A version of the above work, emphasizing heavy metal risks and biological roles of humic substances. PubMed
“Quantifying of Thallium in Shilajit and Its Supplements to Unveil the Risk.” BMC Chemistry. 2025.
This recent study draws attention to the presence of thallium (Tl), a highly toxic heavy metal, in certain Shilajit preparations. BioMed Central
“Heavy Metal Profile of Shilajit Samples from Gilgit and Chellas.” Journal of Pure & Applied Sciences.
This work measures lead, chromium, cobalt, iron, etc. in Himalayan Shilajit samples using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Journal of Physical Science+1
“Rapid Determination and Quantification of Nutritional and Contaminant Elements in Shilajit.” PubMed / NCBI.
Uses techniques like LIBS, ICP to assess both beneficial minerals and contaminants (heavy metals) in Shilajit samples. PubMed
“Evaluation of Safety Profile of Black Shilajit After 91 Days Repeated Dose in Animal Models.” PMC / NCBI.
This toxicology study suggests some formulations of “black shilajit” may appear safe under specific controlled use but highlights the limitation of generalizing to all forms. PMC
“FDA Warns About Heavy Metal Poisoning Associated with Certain Unapproved Ayurvedic Drug Products.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Official regulatory warning that Ayurvedic products (including Shilajit) may harbor undisclosed heavy metals and pose health risks. U.S. Food and Drug Administration
“Healthy Nutrition Group LLC — FDA Advisory Letter.”
A concrete legal/regulatory case in which Shilajit products were flagged by the FDA for misleading disease-treatment claims. U.S. Food and Drug Administration
WebMD: Shilajit — Side Effects, Safety, Dosage.
A consumer-facing resource summarizing known safety data, known side effects, and caveats. WebMD
Cleveland Clinic: “Shilajit Benefits, Side Effects, and Uses.”
Trusted medical institution summarizing side effects like nausea, hormonal effects, GI distress, and caution about regulation. Cleveland Clinic
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication.
