Can we use shilajit for long term? Evaluating safety, benefits, and risks

October 14, 2025 •

4 min read

Used for over 3,000 years in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, shilajit has a long history of use for promoting wellness. But as modern consumers increasingly turn to natural supplements, the crucial question, "Can we use shilajit for long term?", deserves a thorough, evidence-based answer.

Quick Summary

Processed shilajit appears generally safe for long-term use at recommended doses, but product purity and individual health status are critical considerations. Cycling and careful monitoring are often advised. Contamination with heavy metals is a significant risk for unpurified products.

Key Points

Purification is Key: Long-term use of shilajit is considered potentially safe only if it is purified to remove harmful heavy metals and other contaminants.
Dosage Matters: Stick to a conservative daily dosage, typically 250-500 mg, and consider starting with a lower amount to assess your body's reaction.
Monitor Effects and Cycle: While daily use is common, some users prefer to cycle their intake (e.g., 6-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off) to prevent tolerance and monitor effects.
Watch for Side Effects: Be aware of potential issues like digestive upset, increased iron levels, or hormonal changes, and discontinue use if adverse reactions occur.
Consult a Professional: Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting long-term shilajit, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like hemochromatosis or are taking other medications.
Source Reputably: To avoid risks from contamination, always purchase shilajit from trusted brands that provide third-party testing for their products.

Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like substance found primarily in the rocks of mountain ranges, particularly the Himalayas. Formed by the slow decomposition of plant matter over centuries, it is a rich source of minerals and fulvic acid. Historically, it has been used as a rejuvenating rasayana in Ayurveda. With a growing global market for health supplements, modern research is now examining traditional claims through a scientific lens.

The Science on Long-Term Shilajit Use

While the concept of long-term use is ancient in Ayurvedic practice, modern clinical evidence is still developing. However, existing animal and human studies offer reassuring insights into the safety profile of purified shilajit.

Animal and Human Studies

One notable study evaluated the safety of black shilajit in rats over a 91-day period. Researchers found no significant toxicity, even at very high doses, with only minor changes noted at the highest dose level. This suggested a strong safety profile for long-term use in a laboratory setting. Human studies, while generally of shorter duration, have also indicated good tolerability.

For example, some research has shown that processed shilajit is possibly safe when used at doses of up to 500 mg daily for nearly a year (48 weeks). Participants in a study evaluating shilajit's effect on muscular strength received 500 mg daily for eight weeks with no reported adverse effects. Another clinical trial focused on testosterone levels in healthy males found the use of 250 mg twice daily for 90 days to be safe and well-tolerated. These findings collectively support the view that, at appropriate dosages and with proper processing, shilajit can be used for extended periods.

Adaptogenic Properties and Longevity

Shilajit is often referred to as an adaptogen, a natural substance that helps the body adapt to stress. The fulvic acid within shilajit is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against cellular damage from free radicals and reduces inflammation. By supporting cellular function and energy production, it is believed to contribute to overall vitality and potentially a slower aging process. This sustained benefit is one of the primary reasons for long-term use in traditional contexts.

Potential Risks and How to Mitigate Them

While purified shilajit has a promising safety profile, potential risks exist, particularly regarding product quality and individual health conditions.

Common Side Effects

Though generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects, especially when first starting or if taking a high dose. These can include:

Digestive Issues: Mild stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea.
Dizziness and Headaches: Often temporary, possibly related to blood pressure changes or the body's adjustment.
Increased Iron Levels: Since shilajit is a rich source of iron, long-term or high-dose use could lead to iron overload in susceptible individuals.
Hormonal Fluctuations: As shilajit can affect hormone levels like testosterone, long-term use requires monitoring, especially in women.

The Critical Issue of Purification

One of the most significant risks of long-term shilajit use comes from product contamination. Unprocessed, or "raw," shilajit can contain harmful substances.

Heavy Metals: The risk of heavy metal toxicity from lead, mercury, and arsenic is a major concern with low-quality products.
Other Contaminants: Raw shilajit can also be contaminated with free radicals, fungi, and other microbes.

To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to purchase from a reputable brand that provides third-party testing for purity and potency. A certificate of analysis (COA) should confirm the absence of contaminants.

Dosage, Cycling, and Personal Health

For long-term use, dosage and cycling practices vary and should be determined with professional medical advice.

Dosage: A common daily dosage is between 250 mg and 500 mg, although some studies have used higher amounts for specific purposes. Beginners should start with a lower dose (e.g., 100-300 mg) to gauge tolerance.
Cycling: While many people take shilajit consistently, some choose to cycle its use. A typical cycle might involve taking it for 4 to 6 weeks, followed by a 1 to 2-week break. This can help prevent tolerance and allow the body to reset, though not all users find it necessary.
Medical Supervision: It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting long-term shilajit supplementation, especially for those with pre-existing conditions like hemochromatosis, heart disease, or hormone-sensitive conditions.

Processed vs. Unprocessed Shilajit: A Comparison


Feature	Processed (Purified) Shilajit	Unprocessed (Raw) Shilajit
Purity	High; impurities, heavy metals, and microbes are removed.	Low; may contain heavy metals, fungi, and dirt.
Safety	Generally considered safe at recommended doses based on current evidence.	Significantly higher risk of toxicity and adverse effects due to contaminants.
Potency	Retains potent compounds like fulvic acid and minerals.	Variable; potency is inconsistent and benefits are overshadowed by risks.
Source	From reputable manufacturers using purification methods.	Sourced directly from rocks, often without proper cleaning and testing.
Recommendation	Recommended for use, with third-party testing advised.	Not recommended for consumption due to significant health risks.

Conclusion: Is Long-Term Use Right for You?

For those considering long-term use, the available research indicates that high-quality, purified shilajit is likely safe within recommended dosage guidelines. The most critical factor is ensuring the product's purity and potency by sourcing from a trusted, third-party-tested manufacturer. While the supplement offers potential benefits for energy, vitality, and overall health, it is not without risks, particularly with unpurified versions or for individuals with certain health conditions. Personal health monitoring and professional medical consultation remain the cornerstones of safe, long-term supplementation. By following these guidelines, you can make an informed decision about whether to use shilajit for the long run. An additional authoritative source for safety can be reviewed here: Evaluation of safety profile of black shilajit after 91 days repeated administration in rats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, taking purified shilajit daily is considered generally safe for many people when consumed within recommended dosages, such as 250-500 mg. However, it is crucial to use a high-quality, third-party-tested product to avoid contamination.

To ensure your shilajit is purified and safe, you should only buy from reputable brands that provide proof of third-party lab testing. This confirms the product is free from heavy metals, like lead and mercury, as well as other potential contaminants.

While generally well-tolerated, potential long-term side effects can include increased iron levels, hormonal fluctuations, and digestive issues in sensitive individuals. With unpurified products, heavy metal toxicity is a serious long-term risk.

People with conditions like hemochromatosis (iron overload), low blood pressure, or active heart disease should avoid shilajit. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as those with autoimmune conditions, are also advised against long-term use due to insufficient safety data.

Cycling is not strictly necessary but can be a personal preference. Some users take it continuously, while others prefer cycles like 6-8 weeks on, followed by a 1-2 week break, to prevent potential tolerance and monitor effects.

Long-term use of shilajit has been shown to potentially increase testosterone levels in males. In women, this could lead to hormonal imbalances, which is why monitoring and consulting a doctor is important.

Shilajit can interact with some medications, particularly those that affect blood sugar or blood pressure. If you are on any medication, especially for diabetes or blood pressure issues, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before long-term use.