7 Ayurveda Shilajit Myths and Misconceptions Debunked

Shilajit is a thick, black, sticky substance found in the cracks of mountains. It is formed over hundreds of years from plants and herbs that slowly broke down under pressure and heat. This natural resin is full of minerals, especially fulvic acid, humic acid, and more than 80 trace elements that the body needs. Ayurveda calls it a Rasayana - something that builds strength, supports long life, and heals deeply.

In ancient Ayurvedic texts, Shilajit is known as Shilajatu, and it is described as the “destroyer of weakness.” But in today’s world, it is mostly shown as something only for men or for energy in the gym. That’s not the full story. Shilajit has many other powerful benefits that work for everyone - not just for men.

Let’s bust some common myths surrounding this ancient powerhouse.

1. Myth: Shilajit is only for men

Ayurvedic brands often focus on Shilajit’s benefits for men, especially in boosting libido, stamina, and testosterone - which makes one think that it's not for women. 

Shilajit offers a broad spectrum of health benefits that are relevant to everyone, regardless of gender. Women too can benefit from its energy-boosting, hormone-regulating, and anti-aging properties. It's especially helpful for those experiencing fatigue, or perimenopausal transitions.

During menopause, many women experience lower libido, mood swings, and fatigue. This happens because of changes in hormones and the natural pause of ovulation. Shilajit can support the body during this transition by improving energy, calming the mind, and gently supporting natural desires and emotional health.

Shilajit is classified as a Rasayana, meaning it rejuvenates the body and supports long life. Texts like Charaka Samhita describe it as a universal healer that enhances strength (Balya), nourishment (Pushtikar), and ojas (vital energy) - none of which are exclusive to men.

It balances all three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and nourishes Dhatus (body tissues), including Shukra (reproductive tissue), making it supportive of hormonal health in both men and women.

2. Myth: More is better

Many people believe that taking more Shilajit will give faster or stronger results - especially for boosting energy, strength, or sexual health. But this is not true.

The word Shilajit itself means “conqueror of mountains”
Shila means mountain or stone, and Jeet means victory.
This shows how powerful it is. But even powerful things must be used in the right amount.

Shilajit is strong and heavy in nature. It’s not very easy for the body to digest, especially if taken in large amounts. Taking too much can cause side effects like extra heat in the body, dizziness, frequent urination, or stomach problems.

Ayurveda teaches us about balance in everything, even with natural medicines. Even the most beneficial herbs and minerals can cause problems if overused. Shilajit is Ushna Virya, which means it has a hot effect on the body. So if someone already has a Pitta-dominant body or heat-related issues, too much Shilajit can create imbalance.

Start slow, give your body time to adjust, and take it in the right dose, just like Ayurveda suggests.

3. Myth: Purifying Shilajit reduces its nutritional value

You've probably seen those dramatic videos,of  men in the mountain side or floating on boats in Dal Lake, proudly scooping up raw Shilajit as if they've discovered nature's hidden gold mine. They claim it's untouched, original, and pure. Sounds convincing, right? Well, not so fast!

People often think unprocessed products are better, more “potent.” Some even believe purification robs Shilajit of its goodness. But the reality? That raw, straight-from-the-rock Shilajit might also come with a bonus package - heavy metals, soil particles, nasty toxins, or microbial contaminants. Not exactly the health boost you're looking for.

Purification isn’t the villain here - it’s the hero. It doesn’t remove nutrients; it makes them more absorbable and ensures Shilajit is safe and effective for your body. The ancient Ayurvedic process of Shodhana (purification) involves soaking Shilajit in special herbal decoctions, like Triphala, to filter out the bad stuff. This step doesn’t reduce value - it unlocks Shilajit’s true potential, making it more powerful and easier to digest (Agnivardhaka effect).

So, next time someone dramatically lifts a chunk of raw Shilajit out of a lake, claiming it's the real deal, just know: the best version of Shilajit isn’t the one fresh off the rocks - it’s the one properly purified for potency, safety, and effectiveness

4. Myth: Shilajit is a substitute for Viagra

Many people think Shilajit is a quick-fix for sexual health, like an instant booster or erection aid. But that’s not how it works.

Shilajit is not a drug - it doesn’t force changes in the body like Viagra. Instead, it helps in a natural and long-term way, supporting reproductive health, balancing hormones, and increasing stamina over time.

In Ayurveda, Shilajit is known for nourishing Shukra Dhatu (reproductive tissue) and enhancing Ojas (vital energy). It’s also an adaptogen, which means it helps the body stay balanced and healthy overall.

Rather than forcing arousal or increasing blood flow instantly, Shilajit improves libido and fertility by reducing stress, supporting testosterone (in men), and boosting energy at the cellular level. Ayurveda focuses on long-lasting vitality - not just temporary stimulation.

5. Myth: Shilajit is a steroid

Many people think Shilajit is like steroids because it helps with strength, endurance, and muscle recovery. That’s why it’s often sold to gym-goers as a natural replacement for bodybuilding drugs.

But here’s the truth: Shilajit is not a steroid or a synthetic hormone. It’s a natural substance that forms in Himalayan rocks over hundreds of years as plant matter breaks down with the help of microbes. It contains fulvic acid, humic acid, and important minerals, but nothing artificial.

Instead of acting like a hormone, Shilajit helps the body produce and balance hormones naturally by making tissues stronger and improving energy production in cells. In Ayurveda, Shilajit is called a Yogavahi - which means it boosts the effects of other herbs and treatments. So rather than working like a drug, it supports the body in a natural and healthy way.

6. Myth: Shilajit shows immediate results 

Many people expect instant results from Shilajit because of flashy ads or word-of-mouth stories. They think one dose will work like magic.

But Shilajit doesn’t give overnight results, it works slowly and steadily. It helps the body wake up its metabolism, boosts energy production in cells, and fixes deeper imbalances in the system. These processes take time and consistency to show real effects.

In Ayurveda, Rasayanas like Shilajit work by nourishing tissues and strengthening digestion and metabolism. The goal isn’t fast results, it’s deep healing and long-term revitalization at the cellular level.

7. Myth: Shilajit increases testosterone levels

Some studies suggest that Shilajit may help increase testosterone in men with low levels, which has led to a lot of big claims.

But Shilajit is not a direct testosterone booster for everyone. Instead, it improves overall health and energy, which can naturally lead to better hormone balance in both men and women. Its effects depend on each person’s needs and body condition.

In Ayurveda, Shilajit supports Shukra Dhatu, which isn’t just about sperm, it also plays a role in reproductive hormones, creativity, and emotional well-being. By building Ojas and nourishing tissues, Shilajit helps regulate hormones, including testosterone, in a balanced way - without disrupting the body’s natural processes.

Shilajit is more than just a buzzword in wellness circles, it’s a timeless Rasayana with the power to restore strength, vitality, and balance when used with care and knowledge. As we’ve seen, many myths cloud its real potential, often steering people toward unrealistic expectations or unsafe usage.

Ayurveda reminds us that healing is not about shortcuts but about harmonising the body’s inner intelligence. When purified and combined with other supportive herbs, as done traditionally - it becomes even more effective.

It's important to understand that Ayurvedic medicines and ingredients may take time to show results - or may not work the same for everyone - but they never aggravate existing conditions or cause further harm.

At Amrutam, we honour this ancient wisdom through our Shilajit Gold Malt, a blend crafted with purified Shilajit and Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha and Safed Musli. Designed to support energy, stamina, and holistic rejuvenation, it’s a gentle yet powerful way to integrate Shilajit into your daily routine - mindfully, and meaningfully.

Read: Why Amrutam Shilajit Gold Malt is better.