ByShilajit is one of the most fascinating natural substances on Earth — a sticky, tar-like resin that drips out of rocks in the Himalayas and other mountain ranges.
For thousands of years, it has been used in Ayurveda as a rejuvenator and energy booster. Today, with the global wellness boom, people in countries like the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia are turning their attention to it.
But questions remain: Is Shilajit legal? Is it FDA-approved? Is Shilajit legit — or just hype? And perhaps most importantly, how do we tell real Shilajit from fake?
This article answers all of those questions — covering Shilajit’s origins, legality across countries, proven benefits, brand legitimacy, and practical ways to identify true Shilajit.
What Is Shilajit?
Shilajit forms over centuries when, on the Himalayan or Altai mountains, plants and minerals decompose under layers of rock in high-altitude environments.
Shilajit formation is not a day process; it takes 100 years to Heat and pressure compress the material into a nutrient-rich resin.
Shilajit’s core compounds include:
- Fulvic acid – improves nutrient absorption and acts as a strong antioxidant.
- Trace minerals – It has more than 80 trace minerals, including zinc, magnesium, iron, selenium, and calcium.
- Humic substances, amino acids, and fatty acids – bioactive compounds that support energy, recovery, and metabolism. That may help in your weight management.
- Scientists classify Shilajit as a mineral pitch, a rare geological formation.
- Composition varies by source (Himalayan vs. Altai vs. Caucasus), which may influence potency.
- Its texture changes with temperature: hard and brittle in cold weather, soft and sticky in warmth.
Historical Roots of Shilajit
In ancient Ayurvedic texts, Shilajit was recognized as the “conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness.” It was famous as a natural gift believed to extend life, restore vitality, and enhance fertility.
Its use was not limited to India—Shilajit became an integral part of traditional medicine across Tibet, Mongolia, and Russia, where it was trusted to support stamina and help the body adapt to high-altitude conditions.
Ancient healers noted that Shilajit was most potent during the summer months, when the sun’s heat was believed to “activate” the resin seeping from mountain rocks. However, people today mostly use it in the winter season due to its warming nature.
Legends even suggest that historical figures such as Aristotle and Genghis Khan may have relied on Shilajit for endurance and resilience, though these claims remain unverified.
Even today, in certain Himalayan regions, local communities continue the age-old tradition of carefully collecting Shilajit by hand, scraping it from the rocks where it naturally oozes out.
Also Read: Can You Take Shilajit on a Plane?
How You Can Find Real Shilajit Today
Due to an increase in demand and popularity, shilajit is now available worldwide in several forms, like resin vs powder vs capsule vs gummies. The resin is considered the purest form.
Capsules and powders are more convenient but may contain fillers. Gummies are a modern, flavored option with smaller doses.
Pure Himalayan Shilajit is especially valued for its mineral richness. The resin dissolves completely in lukewarm water, while fake shilajit often leaves residue.
Always look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to ensure safety and authenticity. Also, you can test both shilajit and gummies with a simple testing method to find fake shilajit.
Is Shilajit Legal?
In the United States, Shilajit is federally legal and classified as a dietary supplement.
It is not FDA-approved as a medicine, so it cannot be marketed as a cure for any disease.
Anyone can purchase Shilajit online or in stores across the U.S., but due diligence is advised due to quality variations between brands.
The FDA regulates supplements for proper labeling and contamination. They have also issued import alerts against Ayurvedic products containing heavy metals.
U.S. supplement manufacturers must comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Consumers should avoid products that do not provide transparency about the sourcing and testing of raw shilajit.
International Legality
United States – Legal.
European Union – Legal, but classified as a “novel food,” requiring safety testing.
Australia – Restricted; not listed on the therapeutic goods register.
Canada – Some Shilajit products were banned due to heavy metal contamination.
India/Nepal – Legal and widely available in Ayurveda.
UK – Legal if it meets Food Standards Agency requirements.
New Zealand – Legal under dietary supplement rules.
Some Middle Eastern countries may restrict it if marketed as a “medicine” instead of a food supplement.
Why Restrictions Exist
Raw Shilajit may contain heavy metals, mycotoxins, or microbes. Regulations exist to protect consumers from these contamination risks.
Issues usually stem from poor purification, not from Shilajit itself. Some bans, such as in Canada, followed reports of unsafe levels of lead and mercury in untested products.
Counterfeit sellers sometimes mix Shilajit with bitumen or asphalt to mimic the resin.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also issued warnings about contaminated Ayurvedic supplements.
Many online Shilajit sellers are not legitimate brands; they often focus on quick profits. They may buy impure Shilajit, sell it to customers, and then shut down the website after earning. It’s important to research a brand’s history and reputation—don’t easily trust newly created brands without a proven track record.
Is Shilajit Real or Just Hype?
Many people wonder, “Is Shilajit real?” or “Is Shilajit legit?” Yes — Shilajit is a genuine natural resin with a long history in traditional medicine. However, it is not a chemical product that gives instant results; it generally takes around 2–3 months to show effects in the body.
Not every product on the market is authentic. To identify genuine Shilajit, look for:
- Sourced from the Himalayas or Altai mountains.
- Tar-like texture that softens when warm and hardens when cold.
- Fully dissolves in warm water or milk.
Always check the brand’s social presence, look for collaboration videos on Instagram, and read user comments for real feedback. Only after proper research should you decide to use a product—don’t buy just because someone recommends it.
Brand Legitimacy: Are Shilajit Products Legit?
Because Shilajit is trending, many buyers often wonder about the legitimacy of specific brands, such as BetterAlt, Bodywise, Xara, Root Labs, Cymbiotika, or even Shilajit gummies.
Gummies are generally legit but usually contain smaller doses and may be less potent than resin.
However, brand legitimacy ultimately depends on independent lab testing, sourcing transparency, and proof of purity.
To ensure you are buying authentic Shilajit, look for third-party lab results that confirm the product is free from heavy metals.
Check that the source, whether the Himalayas, Altai, or another region, is clearly stated.
Be cautious of vague marketing claims or promises of miracle results.
Additionally, read reviews on platforms like Amazon and Walmart, check comments on YouTube and Instagram, and verify the brand’s presence on TikTok and Trustpilot.
Following these steps can help you avoid counterfeit or low-quality products and ensure you get genuine, effective Shilajit.
Benefits of Shilajit
Energy and Stamina
Shilajit enhances mitochondrial energy production, helping the body generate more energy at the cellular level. Traditionally, it has been used to combat altitude fatigue, and small studies suggest it may improve exercise recovery.
Athletes have reported faster muscle recovery, while animal studies indicate higher endurance with supplementation. It may also support individuals experiencing chronic fatigue symptoms.
Cognitive Health
Shilajit protects brain cells from oxidative stress and may slow age-related memory decline. In Ayurveda, it is described as a brain tonic.
Research has explored its potential role in Alzheimer’s prevention, with fulvic acid possibly reducing abnormal brain protein buildup. Additionally, its adaptogenic properties may help reduce stress, indirectly supporting focus and mental clarity.
Hormonal and Reproductive Health
A 2016 study showed that Shilajit supplementation increased testosterone levels by 20% in men over 90 days. It also improved sperm quality and libido. In Ayurveda, Shilajit has been applied to women’s reproductive health as well.
Animal studies suggest it may support ovarian health, improve post-exercise recovery in older men, and help balance hormones naturally without synthetic boosters.
Immune and Antioxidant Support
Shilajit neutralizes free radicals, reduces oxidative stress, and supports immune system regulation. Its compounds show mild anti-inflammatory effects and may help offset oxidative damage caused by pollution. Regular use may also shorten recovery from minor illnesses.
Other Overlooked Benefits
Shilajit supports bone and joint health, may help regulate blood sugar, and contributes to thyroid and heart function.
Selenium present in Shilajit promotes thyroid balance, it may reduce LDL cholesterol, and its adaptogenic qualities help enhance resilience to stress.
How to Tell Real Shilajit vs Fake
Signs of Real Shilajit:
- Black-brown resin with a natural glossy sheen.
- Soft and sticky when warm, brittle when cold.
- Fully dissolves in warm water or milk with no residue.
- Strong earthy aroma and a bitter, smoky taste.
- Comes with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) proving purity.
- Sourced from authentic high-altitude regions like the Himalayas or Altai.
- Tar-like texture that breaks easily when handled.
- No artificial colors, flavors, or additives.
- Positive reviews from verified users on social media or retail platforms.
- Sold by brands with transparent history and third-party lab testing.
Signs of Fake Shilajit:
- Powder mixed with fillers such as chalk, soil, or asphalt.
- Suspiciously cheap pricing with no lab reports.
- Fails the water test, leaving residue behind.
- No clear sourcing information on the label.
- Marketed with exaggerated “miracle cure” claims.
- Unnatural colors or overly smooth texture, unlike natural resin.
- No earthy smell or bitter taste; may taste sweet or neutral.
- Sold only online with no verified brand presence or social proof.
- Quick shipping from unknown suppliers, often dropshipping.
- Lacks third-party testing or a certificate of purity.
The Rising Popularity of Shilajit
Shilajit has gained significant attention in recent years, fitting perfectly into the adaptogen and natural wellness trend alongside herbs like ashwagandha and ginseng.
Scientific interest is also growing, with an increasing number of studies on PubMed exploring its effects on energy, cognition, and overall health.
Celebrities and wellness influencers frequently mention Shilajit as a natural energy booster, further fueling its popularity.
Online communities, such as Reddit and health forums, actively discuss Shilajit’s sourcing, authenticity, and benefits, helping consumers make informed choices.
Its exotic Himalayan origin adds a unique cultural and aspirational appeal, making it not just a supplement but a lifestyle choice for many health-conscious individuals.
Final Thoughts
So, is Shilajit legit? The answer is yes, but only when it is authentic, purified, and sourced from reputable brands. While it is legal in most countries, the bigger concern today is quality rather than legality.
Pure Himalayan Shilajit has been valued for centuries for its energy-boosting, cognitive, and hormonal support benefits.
However, the modern market contains many fake or low-quality products, so it’s essential to choose lab-tested, verified Shilajit to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Shilajit is not a miracle cure, but it is a remarkable natural substance with a rich cultural history and promising scientific research.
Have you tried Shilajit? Share your experiences or questions in the comments section below — your insights can help others understand authenticity, proper usage, and real benefits.
FAQ
Is Shilajit legal in the U.S.?
Yes, it is federally legal as a dietary supplement.
Is Shilajit FDA approved?
No. Shilajit is not FDA approved as a drug, only regulated as a supplement.
What does real Shilajit look like?
It is sticky, black-brown, glossy when stretched, dissolves in warm liquid, and has an earthy smell.
How to tell if Shilajit is legit?
Check origin (Himalayas/Altai), dissolution in water, smell/taste, and verify lab reports.
Are Shilajit gummies legit?
Yes, but they usually contain smaller amounts and are less potent than resin.
What are real Shilajit brands?
Legit brands are those that provide COA lab results, transparency in sourcing, and no hidden fillers.
References
- NIH – Heavy Metals in Ayurvedic Products
- PubMed – Fulvic Acid and Mitochondrial Function
- NIH – Clinical Study on Testosterone and Shilajit
- Lexology – Legality of Shilajit in Australia
- LA Times – Canada Ban Case
- Healthy Nutrition Group LLC
- Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity
- FDA Advisory No.2022-0371
- A Practical Compliance Guide to Shilajit and FDA Rules
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
