Shilajit: Side Effects and Contraindications Every User Should Know

Shilajit, this ancient black resin from the Himalayan mountains, is growing in popularity for its many potential health benefits.

Ecrit par Émilie

26/5/2025

Temps de lecture :

min

Shilajit, this ancient black resin from the Himalayan mountains, is growing in popularity for its many potential health benefits. However, like any bioactive substance, it is not devoid of potential side effects and is not suitable for everyone. Before integrating the Shilajit to your dietary supplement routine, it is essential to understand its possible side effects, the situations where its use is not recommended, and the precautions to take for safe consumption. This article explores in detail the security considerations that any user or potential user of Shilajit should know to make an informed choice.

Potential Side Effects of Shilajit

Although generally well tolerated by most users, Shilajit may occasionally cause some side effects that are worth knowing.

Digestive Disorders and Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Digestive discomfort is the most common side effects reported when using Shilajit:

Mild nausea, especially when taken on an empty stomach
Gastric discomfort or a feeling of heaviness
Transit disorders temporary (constipation or mild diarrhea)
Belching with a characteristic taste

One study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology evaluating the safety of Shilajit revealed that these gastrointestinal symptoms affected approximately 5-8% of users, mainly during the first few weeks of use, and tended to subside with continued use.

These effects can generally be minimized by:

Starting with lower doses (100-200 mg per day)
Taking Shilajit with or just after a light meal
Ensuring you stay hydrated throughout the day

Allergic Reactions and Hypersensitivities

Although rare, allergic reactions to Shilajit have been documented:

Skin rashes or itching
Urticaria in more pronounced cases
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema) in severe cases
Breathing difficulties (very rare, but requiring immediate medical attention)

These reactions are more likely to occur in people with a history of multiple allergies or hypersensitivities to earthy substances or compounds based on humic and fulvic acids.

Blood Pressure Disorders

Guide des précautions à prendre lors de la consommation de Shilajit

Shilajit may affect blood pressure in some people:

Potential decrease of blood pressure in normotensive individuals
More pronounced hypotensive effect in people already on antihypertensive treatment
Risk of orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure when getting up) especially in the elderly

One research published in the International Journal of Ayurveda Research noted that the vasoactive compounds in Shilajit could modulate vascular tone, justifying blood pressure monitoring, particularly at the beginning of supplementation.

Complications Linked to Its Iron Wealth

The naturally high iron content in Shilajit can cause problems for some people:

Iron overload potential in predisposed persons
Gastrointestinal symptoms linked to iron irritation
Interactions with the absorption of other minerals like zinc and copper
Increased oxidative stress In case of excessive consumption

These complications are particularly relevant for people with hemochromatosis or other iron overload disorders, for whom Shilajit is formally contraindicated.

Blood Parameter Abnormalities

Changes in some blood parameters have been observed with prolonged use of Shilajit at high doses:

Potential rise in hemoglobin and hematocrit due to its iron content
Mild changes in liver enzymes in some sensitive users
Potential effect on blood sugar requiring supervision in diabetics
Mild action on coagulation by some of its bioactive compounds

These changes are generally modest and of no significant clinical consequence for most users, but may require monitoring in individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Formal Contraindications to the Use of Shilajit

Certain medical conditions and physiological situations make the use of Shilajit strictly inadvisable.

Iron Overload Disorders

People who suffer from disorders related to excessive iron accumulation should definitely avoid Shilajit:

Hemochromatosis : genetic disease characterized by excessive intestinal absorption of iron
Hemosiderosis : tissue iron overload secondary to repeated transfusions
Thalassemia : some forms requiring regular transfusions
Sideroblastic anemia : characterized by an ineffective use of iron

For these people, the naturally high bioavailable iron content in Shilajit (sometimes up to 15-20% of its mineral composition) can worsen iron overload and its associated complications.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding

As a precautionary measure, Shilajit is generally not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding:

Lack of safety studies specific for pregnant or breastfeeding women
Presence of bioactive compounds which can theoretically cross the placental barrier or pass into breast milk
Content of substances that may modulate hormones whose effects on fetal or infant development are unknown

One toxicology study published in Toxicology Reports highlights the importance of applying the precautionary principle for complex natural substances such as Shilajit during these particular physiological periods.

Active Autoimmune Diseases

The immunomodulatory properties of Shilajit can be a problem in the context of autoimmune diseases:

Systemic lupus erythematosus (LED)
Rheumatoid arthritis in the active phase
Multiple sclerosis (SEVEN)
Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (MICI) in thrust

The stimulating effect of Shilajit on certain immune functions could theoretically exacerbate the activity of these pathologies, although specific clinical data are limited.

Severe Coagulation Disorders

People who suffer from bleeding disorders or who are on intense anticoagulation should be especially careful:

Hemophilia and other congenital coagulopathies
Severe thrombocytopenia (very low platelet count)
High therapeutic dose anticoagulation (target INR > 3)
Recent history of major bleeding

Some Shilajit compounds may have a modest effect on blood thinning, which is potentially problematic in these particular clinical contexts.

Advanced Kidney Failure

The mineral wealth of Shilajit can be an excessive burden for failing kidneys:

Chronic kidney failure stages 4-5
People on dialysis that require strict control of mineral inputs
History of recurrent kidney stones, especially those related to minerals

Since the kidneys are responsible for the excretion of a large part of the mineral and organic compounds in Shilajit, their dysfunction can theoretically lead to a problem accumulation of certain substances.

Drug Interactions and Special Precautions

Shilajit can interact with a variety of medications, requiring specific precautions.

Interactions with Antidiabetic Drugs

Shilajit's ability to modulate blood sugar levels may create interactions with diabetes treatments:

Possible potentiation of hypoglycemic effects Metformin
Increased risk of hypoglycemia with sulfonylureas and insulin
Potential change in insulin requirements requiring dosage adjustment
Additive effects with other hypoglycemic supplements

More frequent glycemic monitoring is recommended when initiating Shilajit in people with diabetes, and the adjustment of diabetes treatments should be discussed with a health professional.

Effects on Antihypertensive Drugs

Shilajit may amplify the action of medications that regulate blood pressure:

Synergistic effect with calcium channel blockers like amlodipine
Possible potentiation of ACE inhibitors (ACE inhibitors)
Interaction with beta-blockers which may accentuate the drop in blood pressure
Increased risk of orthostatic hypotension with alpha blockers

More frequent monitoring of blood pressure is advised at the beginning of supplementation, and a preventive reduction in antihypertensive doses may sometimes be necessary under medical supervision.

Precautions with Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Agents

The consumption of Shilajit deserves particular attention in people taking medications that affect coagulation:

Recommended INR monitoring in patients taking warfarin or other vitamin K antagonists
Increased vigilance for signs of bleeding in combination with direct oral anticoagulants (DOAs)
Possible potentiation of antiplatelet agents like aspirin or clopidogrel
Special caution before surgery or invasive procedures

It is generally recommended to stop taking Shilajit 2 weeks before scheduled surgery as a precautionary measure.

Considerations with Hormonal Treatments

The adaptogenic and potentially hormone-regulatory properties of Shilajit may interfere with certain hormonal treatments:

Possible modulation of the effects of hormone replacement therapy In pre/post-menopause
Theoretical interaction with infertility treatments
Uncertain effects on the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives
Special precautions for people suffering from hormone-dependent cancers

Caution is required and discussion with the prescribing physician is recommended before combining Shilajit with these treatments.

Warning Signs and Situations Requiring Supplementation to Stop

Some symptoms should alert and lead to the immediate interruption of taking Shilajit.

Significant allergic manifestations

Allergic reactions that require immediate cessation and medical consultation include:

Extensive or rapidly worsening rash
Severe itching, especially if accompanied by hives
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Breathing difficulties or a feeling of tightness in the chest
Severe dizziness or feeling very unwell After taking

These symptoms may indicate a potentially serious allergic reaction that requires prompt medical attention.

Persistent or Severe Digestive Abnormalities

Digestive problems that are marked or do not improve over time should lead to discontinuation of use:

Intense or persistent abdominal pain
Severe nausea or repeated vomiting
Diarrhea that is severe or persists for more than 48 hours
Presence of blood in the stool
Jaundice (yellowish color of the skin or the whites of the eyes)

These symptoms may signal a significant intolerance or, more rarely, a toxic effect on the digestive or hepatic system.

Signs of Iron Overload

Excessive iron accumulation can be manifested by several signs that require stopping Shilajit:

Unexplained chronic fatigue getting worse with supplementation
New or intensified joint pain
Abnormal tanned skin color
Heart problems such as unusual palpitations or shortness of breath
New libido problems or erectile dysfunction

These symptoms, especially if they occur gradually, may indicate excessive iron accumulation and require medical evaluation.

Significant cardiovascular disturbances

Certain cardiovascular signs should alert and lead to the cessation of supplementation:

Symptomatic hypotension (dizziness, blurred vision when changing position)
Intense or persistent palpitations
Worsening of pre-existing hypertension
Unusual oedemas Of the lower extremities
New or atypical chest pain

These manifestations may reflect interactions with the cardiovascular system and deserve thorough medical evaluation.

Risk Factors That Increase the Likelihood of Adverse Effects

Certain individual factors may increase the susceptibility to the side effects of Shilajit.

Polymedication and Vulnerable Populations

The risks of side effects and interactions are particularly high in certain situations:

Elderly people under multiple medications
Patients with multiple comorbidities (several chronic diseases)
Individuals under treatments closely dosed with Narrow therapeutic margin
Children and adolescents (for whom Shilajit is generally not recommended)
People with history of multiple drug reactions

These populations should exercise particular caution and consult a health professional prior to using Shilajit.

Genetic and Metabolic Predisposition

Certain genetic or metabolic characteristics increase the risk of side effects:

Genetic polymorphisms affecting iron metabolism
Family history of hemochromatosis, even without a personal diagnosis
Slow metabolizers of certain drugs (genetic variations of cytochrome P450)
People with multiple chemical sensitivity or multiple hypersensitivities
Background of porphyria or other rare metabolic disorders

These predisposition may significantly influence individual tolerance to Shilajit.

Environmental Factors and Living Habits

Some lifestyle elements may interact with Shilajit and increase the risk of side effects:

Regular alcohol consumption, especially with underlying liver problems
Diets rich in iron (high consumption of red meat)
Active smoking, which may interact with some vasoactive compounds in Shilajit
Chronic dehydration, which can concentrate bioactive compounds
Practice of intensive sports with the risk of dehydration or injury

Careful attention to these modifiable factors can help minimize risks.

Recommendations for Safe Use

Several precautions can be taken to significantly reduce the risks associated with the use of Shilajit.

Progressive Introduction Strategies

A gradual approach minimizes the risk of side effects:

Start with a minimum dose (100-200 mg per day)
Increase dose gradually over 2-3 weeks
Carefully observe the tolerance at each stage of increase
Take initially with food to limit gastric irritation
Maintain optimal hydration (at least 2 liters of water per day)

This careful approach makes it possible to quickly identify any individual intolerance before reaching more substantial doses.

Importance of Quality and Purity

Product quality is key to minimizing risks:

Choose purified Shilajit exclusively pharmaceutical grade
Verify contaminant analyses (heavy metals, microorganisms)
Choosing products standardized in active ingredients (fulvic acid)
Ensure the absence of problem additives or allergens
Verify the traceability and reputation of the manufacturer

Raw or unpurified forms of Shilajit present significantly higher risks of contamination and toxicity.

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Recommended Tracking and Monitoring

For long-term use, some monitoring measures are recommended:

Initial blood test including ferritin, liver and kidney function
Periodic control (every 6-12 months) of the relevant parameters according to the individual profile
Regular blood pressure monitoring in sensitive people
Special attention to changes in the general condition or to the appearance of new symptoms
Journal of the effects observed, especially during the first few weeks

This monitoring, ideally supervised by a health professional, makes it possible to identify any progressive adverse reaction early.

Communication with Health Professionals

The importance of telling your doctors about taking Shilajit is often underestimated:

Mention systematically Shilajit during medical consultations
Inform before any new medication prescription
Report before surgery or invasive procedures
Talk to a pharmacist about potential interactions with existing treatments
Consult a doctor specialized in integrative or Ayurvedic medicine if possible

This transparency makes it possible to avoid many problematic drug interactions and to adjust treatments if necessary.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Shilajit safety

Can Shilajit damage the liver or kidneys in the long run?

In people with good liver and kidney health, purified, high-quality Shilajit does not appear to have significant toxicity to these organs when used at recommended doses. However, precautions are required for certain profiles:

People with pre-existing liver disease should start with very low doses and monitor their liver enzymes.
Those with moderate to severe renal impairment should consult a nephrologist prior to use
Periodic monitoring of liver and kidney functions is recommended for prolonged use (over 6 months)

In rare cases, moderate and transient elevations in liver enzymes have been reported, generally of no clinical consequence and normalizing upon stopping or reducing the dose.

Can you become addicted or addicted to Shilajit?

Personnes concernées par les contre-indications du Shilajit

No, Shilajit has not shown addictive potential or physical or psychological dependence. Unlike some stimulating substances, it does not induce:

From withdrawal syndrome to stopping
Tolerance requiring gradual increases in doses
Of compulsive seeking behavior

However, some users may note a slight decrease in energizing effects after several months of continuous use, which reflects more a physiological adaptation phenomenon than true pharmacological tolerance. A cyclical approach (cycles of 8-12 weeks followed by a break of 2-4 weeks) can help maintain the optimal effectiveness of the supplement.

What medical tests would be relevant before starting Shilajit supplementation?

For optimal and safe use, especially for people over 40 years of age or with a medical history, certain biological parameters should be checked:

Complete iron balance (serum iron, ferritin, transferrin saturation coefficient)
Liver function (ASAT, ALT, GGT, bilirubin)
Kidney function (creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate)
Fasting blood sugar and possibly HbA1c in people at risk of diabetes
Complete blood count
Basic lipid balance

These analyses make it possible to establish a reference point and to identify possible contraindications such as undiagnosed iron overload.

Can Shilajit interact with herbal medicines or other supplements?

Yes, several significant interactions with other natural supplements have been identified or are theoretically possible:

With plants with an anticoagulant effect (ginkgo, ginseng, concentrated garlic): possible potentiation of the effects on blood fluidity
With adaptogens (rhodiola, ashwagandha): generally synergistic effects but risk of excessive stimulation in some sensitive people
With iron-containing supplements: risk of cumulative iron overload
With hypoglycemic plants (cinnamon, fenugreek): additive effects that may require glycemic monitoring

It is generally recommended to take Shilajit at least 2 hours apart from taking other supplements to minimize direct absorption interactions.

How do you recognize a lower quality Shilajit that is potentially more dangerous?

There are several indicators that can signal a product of dubious quality with increased health risks:

No mention of the purification process on the label
Unusually low price compared to the market
Lack of contaminant analysis or impossibility of obtaining this information
Abnormal consistency and appearance (too liquid or with visible particles)
Excessive or unusual odor
Extremely bitter or chemical taste

Unpurified or substandard Shilajit may contain dangerous levels of arsenic, lead, and other heavy metals, as well as microbial contaminants. Proper purification is a complex and expensive process, which explains the significant price differences between products.

Does Shilajit affect fertility or sexual function?

The effects of Shilajit on fertility and sexual function appear to be generally positive for most users, but precautions are required in some cases:

In men, studies suggest a beneficial effect on sperm quality and testosterone levels, with no significant adverse effects on sexual function.
In women, the effect on fertility is less studied; as a precaution, it is not recommended during assisted reproduction treatments
People on hormonal treatment (contraception, infertility treatment, hormone replacement therapy) should consult their doctor
In rare cases, users have reported a temporary change in libido (increase or decrease)

The hormonal effect of Shilajit seems to be modulatory rather than disruptive, tending to normalize hormonal levels rather than artificially increase them.

Can you consume Shilajit in case of an autoimmune disease in remission?

This situation requires a nuanced approach and ideally a specialized medical consultation:

For autoimmune diseases in stable and prolonged remission (over one year), some practitioners consider that Shilajit can be tried cautiously in very gradual doses
The introduction should be particularly gradual (start at 1/4 or 1/3 of the usual dose)
Careful monitoring of specific disease markers is recommended
Immediate cessation is indicated in case of early signs of a relapse
Certain autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, warrant increased caution, even during remission.

This decision should ideally be made in consultation with a physician familiar with both the specific autoimmune disease and the properties of Shilajit.

Conclusion: Finding the Balance Between Benefits and Risks

Shilajit, like any powerful bioactive substance, has both interesting therapeutic potential and risks that must be rigorously taken into account. While the majority of users report good tolerance and significant benefits, some individual profiles have particular vulnerabilities requiring either increased precautions or complete abstention.

The key to safe use lies in several essential factors: an honest assessment of one's own health situation and potential contraindications, the choice of a product of impeccable quality, the gradual introduction of the supplement, and a constant vigilance with regard to the signals that the body can send.

Support by an informed health professional who is open to complementary approaches is a major asset, particularly for people with pre-existing medical conditions or under medication. This supervision not only minimizes risks, but also optimizes potential benefits through personalized use adapted to the individual profile.

Knowledge of potential side effects and contraindications is not intended to discourage the use of Shilajit, but rather to enable an informed decision and responsible use of this natural supplement with remarkable properties. Accurate and balanced information is the best ally for successful supplementation, making it possible to take advantage of the ancestral benefits of “mountain blood” while minimizing the associated risks.

Before integrating Shilajit into your routine, take the time to self-reflect on your health condition, look for a quality product, and if possible, consult a health professional familiar with this substance. This careful and informed approach will allow you to explore the potential benefits of this Himalayan treasure with confidence and safety.