Shilajit for Anti-Ageing: Benefits & How It Works
Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin used in Ayurveda that may help the body age more gracefully. Thanks to fulvic acid and trace minerals, it supports mitochondrial energy, fights oxidative stress and helps your skin and mind stay resilient. Here’s what that means in practice.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a natural resin that oozes from high-altitude rocks after centuries of plant and microbial matter breaking down. Traditional systems used it as a “rasayana” (rejuvenator). Modern analysis shows it’s rich in fulvic acid, humic substances, and trace minerals (e.g., zinc, copper, selenium) that may influence energy production and antioxidant defences.
How Ageing Happens (in brief)
Ageing is influenced by several processes:
- Oxidative stress – an excess of reactive oxygen species damaging lipids, proteins and DNA.
- Mitochondrial decline – reduced cellular energy (ATP) output over time.
- Inflammageing – low-grade, chronic inflammation.
- Glycation – “sugar damage” forming AGEs that stiffen tissues.
- Cellular maintenance – reduced autophagy and imbalanced micronutrients.
Shilajit is not a miracle cure, but its components interact with many of these levers.
The Potential Anti-Ageing Benefits of Shilajit
1) Cellular Energy & Mitochondrial Support
Fulvic acid appears to act as a natural carrier that helps shuttle minerals and nutrients into cells. Shilajit has also been studied for supporting CoQ10 activity and the electron transport chain – mechanisms linked to sustaining ATP (energy) output. Better mitochondrial function can translate to steadier energy, exercise capacity and overall vitality as we age.
2) Antioxidant Defence Against Oxidative Stress
Fulvic and humic substances can neutralise free radicals and may help recycle antioxidants. Combined with trace minerals (selenium, zinc, copper) that are cofactors for key enzymes (like glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase), Shilajit can support the body’s in-house defence systems.
3) Calmer “Inflammageing”
Some research suggests Shilajit may modulate inflammatory signalling. While it’s not a replacement for medical treatment, supporting a balanced inflammatory response may help joints, recovery and skin appearance over time.
4) Collagen, Skin & Hair Appearance
By supporting antioxidant capacity and mineral status (think zinc and copper, both relevant to collagen and hair pigment enzymes), Shilajit may indirectly help with skin elasticity, even tone, and hair vitality. It’s not a topical retinol swap—it’s more of a foundational internal support.
5) Cognitive Ageing & Brain Health
Ageing brains are vulnerable to oxidative stress and mitochondrial decline. Shilajit’s fulvic acid may support neuronal energy and proteostasis (healthy protein turnover), with early research exploring memory and focus benefits. Pairing this with sleep, exercise and a Mediterranean-style diet is your best bet for long-term brain health.
6) Exercise Recovery and Muscle Function
Regular activity is one of the strongest “anti-ageing” levers we have. Shilajit may support recovery, stamina, and iron metabolism, helping you stay consistent with training that keeps muscle, bones and metabolism younger for longer.
How to Take Shilajit for Healthy Ageing
Formats: Resin vs Powder vs Capsules
- Resin (purified) is the closest to traditional use and often the most concentrated.
- Powders/Capsules are convenient but vary widely in quality and standardisation.
Dosage & Timing
- A typical starting range is 100–250 mg of purified resin once daily, building up to 300–500 mg if well tolerated.
- Many take it in the morning or pre-activity for energy.
- Pair with warm water, tea or milk to help it dissolve and for a traditional routine.
Quality & Safety Checklist
Choose products that are:
- Purified and third-party tested for heavy metals, microbes and PAHs.
- Standardised for fulvic acid content (transparent lab reports).
- From reputable, traceable sources (Himalayan/Altai), with batch certificates.
Who should avoid or seek medical advice first?
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with gout, haemochromatosis or on medications such as anticoagulants or thyroid meds should speak to a clinician before use. Stop if you notice any adverse effects.
How Long Until You Notice Benefits?
- Energy & recovery: often within 1–3 weeks.
- Skin & hair: these are slower-moving tissues—think 6–12 weeks alongside a nutrient-dense diet, sleep and sun protection.
- Cognitive clarity: variable; pair Shilajit with daily exercise and consistent sleep for best results.
Consistency matters. Think of Shilajit as part of a long-term lifestyle stack, not a quick fix.
Stacking Shilajit With Other Healthy-Ageing Habits
- Diet: protein (collagen-supporting amino acids), colourful veg/berries, omega-3s.
- Training: 2–3 sessions/week of resistance work plus zone-2 cardio.
- Sleep: 7–9 hours; Shilajit can be part of an evening wind-down if it doesn’t make you too alert.
- Sun & skin: sunscreen, vitamin C foods, avoid smoking/excess alcohol.
- Labs (with your GP): iron studies, thyroid markers, B12/folate, vitamin D where appropriate.
Key Takeaways
- Shilajit won’t “stop” ageing, but it can support the systems that help you age well—mitochondria, antioxidant defences, mineral balance and recovery.
- Prioritise purity and testing. Start low, build slowly, and work with your healthcare professional if you have conditions or take medication.
- For best results, integrate Shilajit into a broader lifestyle that protects muscle, brain and skin.