We asked experts if there's any side effects of shilajit. Here's what they said!

We reached out to health experts to understand whether Shilajit has any kind of side effects. Since it is a natural capsule, it is safe but one needs to know the type of risk that goes along with it. The experts believe that though this occurs rarely, some people do get minor side effects. Thus, before taking any supplement or tablets, it's always best to consult with a doctor. Here's what experts have to say regarding Shilajit and possible side effects. Read this guide to understand what medical experts have said, along with complete information.

Understanding the Safety of Shilajit

Pure and genuine Shilajit is said to be safe for consumption. It was utilized in Ayurveda as well as other medicine for thousands of years as a tonic. But if not processed or contaminated, it may contain unwholesome elements or heavy metals during consumption.

• Authentic and pure Shilajit is usually safe to consume.
• It has been in use for a very long time in the traditional medicines such as Ayurveda.
• Buy from companies that are recognized for their purity pledge on their products.
• Raw or spoiled Shilajit will harm you.
• Do consult your doctor before consuming, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Do consult the doctor before consuming if you have medical conditions.

Shilajit shall only be purchased from established, reputable brands that carry purity tests.

The Common Side Effects of Shilajit

While Shilajit tablets or supplements have many advantages, there may be some people who will feel mild effects like dizziness or other digestive discomfort. Always start low and work your way up to avoid any issues.

• Allergies Reactions: There are rare allergic conditions like itching, rash, or swelling caused by hypersensitivity to Shilajit or impurities in unprocessed products.
• Excessive Iron Absorption: Being a natural substance with iron, Shilajit tablets may cause excessive iron absorption in patients who suffer from conditions like hemochromatosis or are sensitive to higher iron levels.
• Low-quality or non-tested: Shilajit tablets may contain heavy metals, which are toxic in the long run.
• Blood Pressure: The Shilajit tablets might also cause a reduction in blood pressure. This will be harmful in a hypotension patient or in a patient taking antihypertensive medicine.
• Hormonal issues: The shilajit capsules will cause hormonal imbalance or imbalance in natural hormones, especially testosterone, when taken without dosage.
• Digestive problems can include nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhea, mainly when taken in large amounts and without food.
• General Bad Feeling: Other users have reported light headache, dizziness, or not feeling right after taking Shilajit.

To avoid these side effects, one should purchase the high-quality, lab-tested Shilajit and obtain advice from a healthcare provider before supplementing.

Precautions with Shilajit Use

When using Shilajit, it requires some precautionary measures. In order to avoid toxins or heavy metal contamination, one should be certain of getting the product from a genuine brand. 

• When it is prescribed, you need to raise the minimal dosages in case you need more. 
• When you have a medical condition or are pregnant or breastfeeding, you must consult your physician before you use Shilajit.
• The gold pills should be taken after a meal to minimize any stomach upsets. Be sure to check if the product is free of fillers or additives. 
• Finally, water intake must be increased when using Shilajit because it enhances cleansing effects of this herb in your body. 

It is not advisable to take other medicines unless and until it is prescribed by a healthcare professional. [1] [2] [3]

Who Must Stay Away from Shilajit?

While shilajit supplements and tablets might do wonders for many others, there are people to whom these supplements should not be given.

• Generally, pregnant and nursing mothers must avoid taking Shilajit since its use in these periods is totally unknown.
• Shilajit is also not indicated to those who have very low blood pressure or serious kidney problems since it may trigger serious aggravation of these illnesses.
• It was also reported that, before taking Shilajit tablets or supplements, should you happen to be taking drugs due to some chronic illness in life, you first consult a doctor in India, since your medication interacts with your prescription drugs.
• Caution should be taken for individuals who have allergies to minerals or plant-based substances.
• Shilajit tablets are avoided in case of concerns on the presence of heavy metal toxicity or product purity.

If a person has an underlying medical condition, it is essential to seek advice from a professional before initiating any supplement.

How to Minimize Potential Side Effects?

Start by taking a low dose of Shilajit tablets or supplements and gradually increase as needed to avoid the risk side effects of Shilajit. 

• Choose only a high-quality brand offering pure Shilajit, thus avoiding contamination by harmful chemicals. 
• Taking it with food will also avoid digestive problems and enhance better absorption of the supplement. 
• Hydration is important as this is what helps support detoxifying effects of Shilajit and facilitates cleansing the body of all unwanted toxins. 
• If you have any medical problems or are on medication, it's always best to consult your physician before taking Shilajit supplements to avoid any sort of interaction. 

Always look out for your body response and stop if you feel otherwise. It is also always wise to avoid overusing it and to take in the right dosage to avoid unnecessary side effects. By following such precautions, you can enjoy its benefits without discomfort.

Expert Recommendations About Using Shilajit

Experts prescribe this Shilajit product for their numerous health benefits, and especially to individuals in India who seek enhancement of wellness. 

• When choosing to introduce Shilajit in your regimen, make sure you pick high-quality authentic products to benefit the best from it to your body. 
• Shilajit can give you higher energy, improve your mind function, and promote your healthy joints, so it can be good for an active lifestyle. 
• Experts suggest first starting with a low dosage and gradually increasing the doses to see how the body reacts. 
• In males, Shilajit works as an enhancer in sexual health and strength also, which can enhance vitality and performance. 
• These activities will regulate the blood sugar in your body and make the immune system more robust. 

Do consult with your doctor when one has some sort of prior medical conditions. Shilajit is easily found across different states of India in all possible forms - capsules, powder and resin. But always source from authentic companies to be on the safer side avoiding a lot of duplicate products out there. The consistent consumption of Shilajit can drastically alter your wellbeing and life for the good.

How to Choose Quality Shilajit to Avoid Contaminants?

When choosing quality Shilajit, it’s essential to look for products that are sourced from reputable regions, such as the Himalayas, and ensure they are purified to remove harmful contaminants. 

• High-quality Shilajit should be in its natural resin form or powder that is free from additives or chemicals. 
• Always check for third-party testing or certifications to ensure the product is safe and contains no heavy metals or impurities. 
• A genuine Shilajit supplement will have a rich, dark brown or black color, and its texture should be smooth and sticky. 
• Avoid products with an overly cheap price, as they may be diluted or contaminated. Look for brands that provide transparent sourcing and production processes. 

Finally, reading customer reviews and consulting with experts can help ensure you're choosing a trusted, high-quality Shilajit product.

What to Do in Case You Feel Side Effects:

If you experience any adverse reactions to Shilajit, stop taking it immediately and observe your symptoms. Therefore, changing to a known brand can work. 

• Make sure to drink a lot of water and have a proper diet because this will enable your body to heal faster. 
• If the side effects continue or worsen, see a doctor to discuss your problem and find the way forward. 
• Sometimes, the side effects may be related to the dose or quality of the supplement. Before resuming use again, make sure to talk to your doctor if you have any other diseases and if you are under medication of some form. 

These precautionary measures will keep you safe as you use Shilajit.

Is Shilajit safe for long-term use?

Long term safety of Shilajit supplements is usually assured, provided the right dosage and high-quality Shilajit tablets from well-known manufacturers are chosen.  However, be sure that the Shilajit tablets you consume do not contain any impurities such as heavy metals which can prove to be injurious after a certain period. 

• To remain safe, one should take breaks or cycles in using Shilajit and regularly consult with a doctor. 
• If a person feels discomfort or otherwise, it is better to stop using Shilajit and consult a healthcare professional. 

According to medical professionals, if it is used properly, it should offer sustainable health benefits without potential risks.

Conclusion:

Shilajit tablets, as experts claim, have a lot of health benefits if used in the right manner; however, one must always keep in mind any possible negative effects. Though Shilajit is generally safe, it's essential to have high-quality supplements to avoid contamination. The moment you feel any discomfort, talk to your healthcare physician. Always begin with a small dosage and observe how your body reacts. Always take a doctor's advice, especially if you have an underlying medical condition, when you decide to take Shilajit pills for a longer period of time. Healthy and safe additions of supplements in your diet require utmost priority.

Dr. Alakha AS, BAMS

Dr. Alakha graduated, BAMS physician from MGR University P.S. Varier Ayurveda College in Kottakkal