What Is Shilajit? A Practical Guide to Ingredients and Quality

Shilajit is a resinous material associated with mountainous regions and has a history of traditional use. In the UK it is commonly sold as a food supplement rather than a medicine.

What to check before buying

• Ingredient list: check whether the product is a single-ingredient resin or a multi-ingredient formulation.
• Serving instructions: look for a clearly stated daily amount and a warning not to exceed it.
• Batch information: a batch number and best-before date help identify the product.
• Quality documents: ask whether a Certificate of Analysis is supplier-provided or independently commissioned, and which batch it covers.
• Claims: a food supplement should not claim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Resin and capsule products

Resin is measured before being dissolved in a warm drink. Capsule formulations provide a pre-measured serving but may contain additional ingredients. Neither format should be assumed to provide a particular health outcome.

Using the label

Follow the serving directions and warnings on the product label. Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or under medical supervision, seek advice from a healthcare professional before use.