Shilajit and testosterone: what the studies actually show
A plain-language look at the shilajit and testosterone studies, what they can and can't tell us, and why low testosterone should be checked by a doctor.
Published 7 October 2026 · 3 min read
"Shilajit testosterone" is a hugely searched phrase. Here is what is actually known.
The main study
In 2016, a 90-day trial gave purified shilajit (250 mg twice a day) or placebo to healthy men aged 45–55. The shilajit group showed higher total and free testosterone than the placebo group at the end. An earlier small study in men with low sperm count also reported changes in testosterone.
The limits
- The trials were small (dozens of men, not thousands).
- They used a specific, purified, standardised extract — not any market resin.
- Several were funded by the extract's makers.
- "Higher than placebo" does not mean levels went from low to normal for everyone.
So the honest summary: studies suggest shilajit may modestly influence testosterone in some men. It is not a hormone treatment.
Traditional view
Ayurveda does not talk about testosterone. It describes shilajit as a rasayana for bala (strength) and vigour, often combined with ashwagandha or gokshura.
If you think your testosterone is low
Tiredness, low desire, low mood or weight gain can have many causes — thyroid, sleep apnoea, diabetes, stress. A simple blood test and a doctor's opinion are the right first step.
Please read: no cure or guarantee claims
Shilajit is a traditional Ayurvedic supplement. It is not a treatment for erectile dysfunction, infertility, low testosterone or any sexual disorder, and no product can promise instant or guaranteed results. Ongoing sexual-health concerns can be an early sign of diabetes, heart or hormone problems, so please see a doctor.
How to take shilajit (general guide)
- Take a rice-grain to pea-sized piece of resin (about 300–500 mg) once a day, or follow your label dose.
- Dissolve it in a cup of warm (not boiling) water or milk and stir for a minute or two.
- Most people take it in the morning, after a light breakfast.
- Start low in the first week and stop if it does not suit you.
- Always use a clean, dry spoon so moisture does not get into the jar.
Related shilajit guides
- Shilajit for men
- Shilajit for libido
- Shilajit and ashwagandha together
- Shilajit with gokshura (tribulus)
- Shilajit benefits
- Complete shilajit guide
Doctor's note
This page shares traditional Ayurvedic use and a summary of published research; it is not medical advice. Consult a qualified doctor or Ayurvedic physician (BAMS) before taking shilajit, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, under 18, have a heart condition, high or low blood pressure, gout or high uric acid, iron overload (haemochromatosis), kidney or liver disease, or take regular medicines. Do not stop prescribed medicine. Read who should not take shilajit and shilajit side effects.
Frequently asked questions
Does shilajit increase testosterone?
- Small studies suggest purified shilajit may modestly raise testosterone in some men compared with placebo. The evidence is limited and it is not a hormone treatment.
How much shilajit was used in the studies?
- The main trial used 250 mg of a purified extract twice a day for 90 days. Market resins vary, so follow your product's label.
Can women take shilajit if it affects testosterone?
- Shilajit is traditionally used by women too as a general rasayana. Women with hormone conditions such as PCOS should check with a doctor first.
Shilajit guides
Benefits, how to take it, pure vs fake, forms, side effects and price — in plain language.
- Shilajit benefits: what Ayurveda traditionally uses it forWhat shilajit is, the benefits Ayurveda traditionally describes — strength, stamina, energy and vitality — and the honest limits of what a supplement can do.
- How to take shilajit resin: dose, timing and the right wayA step-by-step guide to taking shilajit resin — how much, when, with water or milk, how long to continue, and the common mistakes to avoid.
- How to identify original (pure) shilajit: home checks and label checksSimple home checks for pure shilajit resin, why they are only rough guides, and the label and seller checks that matter most.
- Shilajit resin vs capsule vs powder: which form should you choose?An honest comparison of shilajit resin, capsules, powder and gummies — processing, dosing, convenience and what to check on each label.
- Shilajit side effects: precautions and who should avoid itPossible side effects of shilajit, who should not take it or should check with a doctor first, and simple ways to use it more safely.
- Shilajit price in India: how to compare and what to look forHow to compare shilajit prices fairly — per gram and per day — why very cheap shilajit is a warning sign, and what our 10 g resin costs.
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