Shilajit: A Treasure of Ayurvedic Medicine? Facts, Myths, and Risks

Shilajit is a natural substance often used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine—and one that many celebrities take. Let’s break it down…

In the biohacking world, there are those who follow ultra-precise protocols and cutting-edge technologies, and those who lean towards more natural products, including certain compounds from Ayurvedic medicine.

I like to say that just because something is “ancient” doesn’t mean it’s better for us. And just because an active compound comes from the depths of the Himalayas or a high-altitude meadow in Peru doesn’t mean it’s miraculous—or even safe.

But let’s get back to shilajit. Given the growing number of people taking it, the many celebrity names, influencers, and biohackers who talk about it and use it regularly, I decided to investigate!

At first glance, shilajit seems like a mysterious, powerful natural ingredient gaining more and more attention in the health and wellness space.

Used for thousands of years in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, this ancient remedy is often called the “conqueror of mountains” or “destroyer of weakness.”

So—good or bad? Miracle or marketing hype?