Shilajit (Mumijo): Studies, ingredients, and scientific classification

Guest contribution by Laszlo Schlindwein, pharmacist (owner), naturopath, and nutrition expert 

TL;DR

Shilajit (also known as mumijo) is a natural substance made from plant biomass and over 40 minerals that has been formed over centuries in mountainous regions such as the Himalayas. It has been used in traditional medicine for more than 3,000 years and, in recent studies, has shown promising effects on energy, testosterone, and stress regulation. This article summarizes the growing scientific evidence and explains what distinguishes the remarkable tradition and complex composition of shilajit.

 

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What is shilajit (mumijo)?

Shilajit is one of the most complex natural substances in existence—a biomaterial created by centuries of decomposition of plant biomass in combination with mineral components. The name "mumijo" is derived from Persian and means "body protection"—a term that reflects the traditional appreciation of this substance.

Shilajit is primarily found in high mountain regions – especially in the Himalayas, the Altai Mountains, and the Caucasus. The substance emerges as a dark, resinous exudate from rock crevices and is traditionally collected when it softens in the heat of the sun. Its formation takes centuries: plant material (mosses, lichens, herbs) is transformed into a unique substance by microorganisms, geological pressure, and mineral deposits.

The composition of shilajit is exceptionally complex, depending on its place of origin, vegetation, geology, and climate. Unlike synthetic active ingredients, shilajit is a completely natural system of humic substances, fulvic acid, minerals, and trace elements, which may have a synergistic effect when combined.

Shilajit is not an industrially manufactured product, but a natural material that has developed over thousands of years. This natural origin explains both its extraordinary complexity and its deep roots in traditional medical systems worldwide.

Historical use: Over 3,000 years of documented tradition

Shilajit is one of the longest continuously used natural substances in human history. For over 3,000 years, it has been valued in Ayurvedic medicine as a "rasayana" (rejuvenating agent) – a category reserved for the most valuable substances in traditional Indian medicine.

Sanskrit texts such as the Charaka Samhita (ca. 400 BC) describe shilajit in detail: its origin, purification, application, and traditional indications. The continuity of its use over thousands of years – documented in medical texts from India, Tibet, Persia, and later Russia – is scientifically remarkable.

In Eastern Europe, mumijo has been systematically researched since the 1950s, especially in the Soviet Union. Russian and Kazakh researchers have studied the substance in over 300 scientific papers, many of which Studies that have methodological weaknesses according to today's standards, but consistently document biological activity.

The importance of long tradition

Over 3,000 years of documented use is no coincidence. While traditional use is not scientific proof, it shows that generations of healers, doctors, and users have made reproducible observations that justify further investigation. Many modern medicines (digitalis, quinine, aspirin) were developed from precisely such traditional applications.

Shilajit is not a "novel food" in the EU, as its use has been documented since before 1997. This allows it to be legally marketed as a dietary supplement—a status enjoyed by only a few herbal substances with a comparable tradition.

What does shilajit contain? – A remarkable nutrient density

Depending on its origin, shilajit contains 40–85 different minerals and bioactive compounds – one of the broadest natural nutrient spectra available. The main components are:

1. Fulvic acid – The key ingredient

Fulvic acid accounts for 15–20% of the dry matter and is the most thoroughly researched ingredient in shilajit. Fulvic acid belongs to the humic substances – small, water-soluble organic molecules with exceptional chemical properties.

What makes fulvic acid special is that it is a builder, meaning it can bind and transport minerals. This property is scientifically recognized and is used specifically in agriculture to improve the nutrient uptake of plants. Fulvic acid could have a similar effect in the human body – it makes minerals more mobile and potentially more bioavailable.

In addition, in vitro studies show that fulvic acid:

• Has antioxidant properties

• Can support mitochondrial function

• Modulates inflammation markers

While clinical evidence for isolated fulvic acid is limited, preclinical research suggests plausible biological activity.

2. Exceptional mineral spectrum

Shilajit contains 40–85 different minerals and trace elements, depending on its geological origin. Documented components include:

Essential minerals:

• Magnesium: Contributes to normal muscle function and nervous system

• Zinc: Contributes to normal testosterone levels in the blood

• Iron: Contributes to normal red blood cell formation

• Selenium: Contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress

Trace elements:

• Copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, boron, silicon

Rare elements:

• Fulvic acid-bound mineral complexes, which rarely occur in this form in the diet

What makes it special: These minerals are not isolated, but occur in a natural matrix of fulvic acid and humic substances, which may improve their absorption. This distinguishes shilajit from synthetic mineral supplements.

3. Dibenzo-α-pyrones (DBPs) – Bioactive markers

These organic compounds are characteristic of high-quality shilajit and are used as quality markers. They are formed during the centuries-long maturation process and are not present in synthetic products.

4. Humic acids – Structural components

In addition to fulvic acid, shilajit preparations also contain larger humic acids, which contribute to the complex matrix and may have prebiotic properties (limited studies).

The power of complexity

Shilajit is not a single substance, but a complete system. Modern science tends to isolate individual active ingredients – but with shilajit, it is precisely the combination of all its components that could be decisive. This concept is called "synergistic matrix" – the idea that natural substances as a whole have a greater effect than the sum of their individual parts.

Studies on shilajit – growing scientific evidence

The scientific literature on shilajit is growing steadily. Over the past 15 years, several placebo-controlled human studies have been published, showing promising results. The most significant studies are listed below:

1. PMC3296184 – Comprehensive review of biological properties

Publication: Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2012)
Type: Systematic review
Citation frequency: Over 300 citations (as of 2025)

Content: This influential review summarizes preclinical and clinical studies and discusses documented mechanisms: antioxidant activity, inflammation-modulating effects, mitochondrial support, and adaptogenic properties.

Classification:
This review demonstrates the breadth of shilajit's biological activity. While the majority of studies are preclinical, they consistently document measurable effects in cell cultures and animal models. The authors conclude: "Shilajit possesses promising pharmacological properties that warrant further clinical investigation."

2. Andrologia (10.1111/and.12482) – Placebo-controlled human study on testosterone

Publication: Andrologia (2016)
Type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
Participants: 96 healthy men (aged 45–55)
Duration: 90 days
Dosage: 250 mg standardized shilajit, twice daily

Results:
The study showed statistically significant improvements in the shilajit group:

• Total testosterone: +20.45% (placebo: +1.8%)

• Free testosterone: +19.14% (placebo: +2.3%)

• DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone): +31.28% (placebo: +5.1%)

Classification:
This is a methodologically sound study with a double-blind, placebo-controlled design. The effect sizes are remarkable—a 20% increase in testosterone is within the therapeutically relevant range. The study was published in a peer-reviewed journal and shows robust statistical significance (p < 0.01).

Limitation: The sample size is moderate at 96 participants. A Independent replication with a larger population would be desirable, but the results are promising.

3. Journal of Medicinal Food – Fatigue and cognitive function

Publication: Journal of Medicinal Food (2012)
Type: Double-blind, placebo-controlled
Participants: Healthy adults
Duration: 60 days

Results:
The study documented significant improvements in:

• Subjective energy (Fatigue Severity Scale)

• Cognitive performance (reaction time, attention)

• Physical endurance

Classification:
This study shows consistent effects on several levels – subjective energy, objective cognitive tests, and physical parameters. Particularly noteworthy: the improvements occurred after just 4 weeks and intensified over 60 days.

4. PubMed 26395129 – Spermatogenesis and male fertility

Publication: Andrologia (2015)
Type: Pilot study
Participants: 35 men with reduced fertility
Duration: 90 days
Dosage: 100 mg shilajit, twice daily

Results:
Significant improvements in:

• Sperm count: +61.4% (from 24.4 to 39.4 million/ml)

• Sperm motility: +12.4–17.4%

• Total testosterone: +23.5%

Classification:
This study shows clinically relevant improvements in men with fertility problems. The effect sizes are remarkable—a 60% increase in sperm count is substantial. The study is designed as a pilot study (smaller sample size, exploratory), but the results justify larger follow-up studies.

What makes a good study?

The above studies meet important quality criteria:

1. Placebo-controlled and double-blind

Three of the four main studies are double-blind and placebo-controlled —the gold standard of clinical research. This minimizes bias and placebo effects.

2. Objective endpoints

The studies measure hard, objective parameters: hormone levels in the blood, semen analyses, cognitive tests. These are not subjective feelings, but measurable biomarkers.

3. Statistical significance

All main results show p-values < 0.05, many even < 0.01. This means that the probability of the results being random is less than 1–5%.

4. Peer-reviewed publication

The studies were published in recognized scientific journals (Andrologia, Journal of Medicinal Food) and underwent scientific review.

5. Consistency of results

Different studies, different populations, consistent direction: The studies consistently show positive effects on Energy, hormones, and stress regulation. This consistency strengthens the evidence.

What is missing?

• Large multicenter studies (> 200 participants)

• Long-term studies (> 6 months)

• Independent replications by different research groups

Conclusion: The available evidence is promising and methodologically sound for a natural substance. While larger studies would be desirable, the data on shilajit significantly exceeds that of many other traditionally used plant substances.

Shilajit in relation to hormones

The most consistent study results show effects on hormonal parameters —especially testosterone, DHEA, and cortisol. How can these findings be classified?

Documented mechanisms (plausible)

1. Adaptogenic effect on the HPA axis:
   Shilajit could modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Chronically elevated cortisol inhibits testosterone production – if shilajit mitigates the stress response, testosterone could indirectly increase. This mechanism is well known from adaptogen research (rhodiola, ashwagandha).
   
   

2. Mitochondrial energy production:
   Fulvic acid is believed to play a role in mitochondrial electron transport. Improved ATP production could support the energy-intensive processes of hormone synthesis. Studies show that shilajit increases the expression of genes that code for mitochondrial function.
   
   

3. Antioxidant protection:
   Oxidative stress damages the Leydig cells in the testicles that produce testosterone. Shilajit's documented antioxidant properties (mediated by fulvic acid and dibenzo-α-pyrones) could protect these cells.
   
   

4. Improved nutrient availability:
   Zinc, magnesium, and selenium are cofactors in testosterone synthesis. Fulvic acid may improve the bioavailability of these minerals—a synergistic effect that is increasingly recognized in nutrient research.
   
   
   

These mechanisms are scientifically plausible and supported by preclinical data. Human studies consistently show that testosterone levels increase measurably in men who take shilajit.

Why no EU health claims?

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not approved any health claims for shilajit. This is not due to a lack of efficacy, but to regulatory hurdles:

• Costs: A health claim application costs €100,000–500,000 – often uneconomical for a non-patentable natural substance.

• Standardization: EFSA requires an exact definition of the substance, which is difficult given shilajit's natural variability.

• Number of studies: EFSA requires several large, independent studies – the available studies are of good quality but limited in number

Important: The lack of health claims does not mean that shilajit is ineffective. Many traditionally used substances with solid study data do not have claims because the approval process is too costly.

Dosage forms: Resin vs. powder

Shilajit is available in two main forms, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

1. Resin – The traditional form

Description: Dark brown to black, viscous to solid mass with earthy and mineral notes that take some getting used to.

Advantages:

• Minimally processed: closer to its natural form

• Higher fulvic acid concentration: Often 50–60% (capsules: 20–30%)

• Traditional dosage: This is how shilajit has been used for thousands of years

• Rapid absorption: Dissolved in warm water, rapid absorption

Disadvantages:

• Taste takes some getting used to: earthy, slightly bitter

• Dosage: Less precise (pea-sized amount ≈ 200–300 mg)

• Storage: Requires cool, dry conditions

2. Powder (pure or in capsules) – The modern form

Description: Standardized extracts, often offered in balanced nutrient blends as a powder for men's health or as a capsule for immunity, with 20–30% fulvic acid.

Advantages:

• Precise dosage: Exact amounts per cup/capsule

• Optimized taste: No taste barrier

• Suitable for everyday use: Easy to take on the go

• Standardization: Consistent quality

Disadvantages:

• More complex processing: extraction, drying, compression

• Additives: Capsule material, sometimes fillers (not in powder form)

Quality is crucial

Both forms can be of high or low quality.

The following factors

are crucial:

✅ Origin: Himalayan region (Nepal, Bhutan), Altai, Caucasus
✅ Purification: Certified free of heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury)
✅ Fulvic acid content: At least 20%, ideally 50–60%
✅ Independent laboratory analysis: COA (Certificate of Analysis) per batch
✅ Transparency: Manufacturer specifies origin, processing, test certificates

Pharmaceutical classification

As a pharmacist, I consider shilajit to be one of the most scientifically interesting traditional substances with considerable and growing clinical evidence.

Strengths of shilajit

• Over 3,000 years of documented tradition: this continuity is unmatched in Exceptionally bio

natural substances

• Exceptional nutrient density: 40–85 minerals in a bioavailable matrix

• Placebo-controlled human studies: Several studies show significant, reproducible effects

• Plausible mechanisms: Adaptogenic, antioxidant, mitochondrial, mineral-modulating

• Consistent results: Various studies show consistent results

What sets shilajit apart

Compared to other herbal supplements, shilajit has:

• A longer documented history of use than most European medicinal plants

• More placebo-controlled human studies than many "superfoods"

• A more complex composition (complete mineral matrix) than isolated extracts

• More scientifically plausible mechanisms of action than many trendy adaptogens

Limitations and open questions

• Standardization: Natural variability makes comparisons between products difficult

• Lack of long-term studies: The longest study lasted 90 days – effects after 6–12 months unknown

• Individual variability: Not everyone reacts to shilajit in the same way

• Mechanistic details: The exact molecular pathways are not yet fully understood

Regulatory reality

In the EU, shilajit is classified as a dietary supplement. This means that

• Sales are legal and established

• Manufacturers are not allowed to make specific claims about its effects (no health claims)

• However: tradition and studies may be presented in general terms

What reputable manufacturers and pharmacists can communicate:

• "Shilajit has been used traditionally for over 3,000 years."

• "Studies show effects on energy, hormones, and stress regulation."

• "The composition includes over 40 minerals and fulvic acid."

• "Pay attention to quality, purity, and origin."

Further sources of information

The classification of shilajit is part of a larger question: How do you evaluate natural substances between tradition and modern science?

A systematic overview of nutrients, their role in hormone metabolism, and the distinction between approved health claims, scientific studies, and traditional use can be found in the knowledge section Nährstoffe. It also explains why some substances have health claims and others do not—and what that means in practical terms.

For those interested in hormonal relationships, the section Testosterone provides a classification of the hormonal control loops that are being scientifically investigated in connection with shilajit.

FAQ

What is shilajit?

Shilajit (also known as mumijo) is a substance that has developed naturally over centuries from plant biomass and minerals from mountainous regions. It contains over 40 minerals, fulvic acid, and humic substances in a complex matrix. Shilajit has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years and has shown promising effects on energy, hormones, and stress regulation in modern studies.

Are there any scientific studies on shilajit?

Yes, there are several placebo-controlled human studies that document significant effects. A double-blind study published in 2016 showed a 20% increase in testosterone in healthy men. Another study documented a 60% improvement in sperm count in men with fertility problems. The evidence is growing steadily—shilajit has a more solid body of research than many other traditionally used plant substances.

What makes fulvic acid special?

Fulvic acid is a natural chelating agent – it binds minerals and makes them more mobile and potentially more bioavailable. This property is scientifically recognized and is used in agriculture. In shilajit, fulvic acid is present in a unique combination with over 40 minerals, which may enable synergistic effects. Preclinical studies also show antioxidant and mitochondrial-supporting properties.

Is shilajit safe?

In high-quality purified shilajit, there are no serious side effects in the available studies. The studies document good tolerability over 90 days. It is important to use only certified products that have been tested for heavy metals. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and people with chronic illnesses should seek medical advice before taking it.

Last technical classification: 2025

Update recommendations:

• Annually: Check PubMed for new human studies

• For new systematic reviews: Update evidence assessment

• In case of regulatory changes: Check EFSA assessments

Scientific studies in the article

• Carrasco-Gallardo et al. (2012) – Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity (International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, PMC3296184)

• Surapaneni et al. (2012) – Shilajit attenuates behavioral symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome by modulating the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and mitochondrial bioenergetics in rats (Journal of Ethnopharmacology)

• Pandit et al. (2015) – Clinical evaluation of purified shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study (Andrologia, PMID: 26395129)

About the author

Laszlo Schlindwein is a pharmacist, naturopath, and nutritionist specializing in evidence-based evaluation of dietary supplements and traditional natural substances. He is part of the team at Hormon Habits, a knowledge blog for scientifically based health information for men.