Shilajit is a thick, tar-like substance that forms over centuries in mountain rocks through the gradual decomposition of plant material. It’s found in regions like the Himalayas, the Tibetan Plateau, and the Altai mountains. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, it’s now gaining attention in men’s health circles — mainly for its possible effects on hormones, fertility, and physical recovery.

Let’s take a closer look at what the research shows so far.

Shilajit and Testosterone

One of the most cited studies on Shilajit and testosterone was published in 2015. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, men aged 45–55 were given 250 mg of purified Shilajit twice a day for 90 days. The group that received Shilajit showed a statistically significant increase in both total and free testosterone compared to placebo. (PubMed link)

Some follow-up reports noted an increase of around 20% in testosterone levels, which suggests that Shilajit might be helpful for men with age-related hormonal decline.

Effects on Fertility

Another clinical study focused on men with oligospermia — a condition characterized by low sperm count. After taking processed Shilajit for 90 days, participants showed improvements in several fertility markers:

• Sperm count increased by 61.4%
• Sperm motility improved
• Oxidative stress markers were reduced
  (PubMed link)

Hormonal markers like testosterone and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) also increased, which may suggest enhanced spermatogenesis.

Muscle Support and Recovery

There’s growing interest in how Shilajit might support physical performance and muscle repair. In a study published in 2018, participants took either 250 or 500 mg of Shilajit daily for eight weeks. The higher-dose group had better post-exercise muscle strength and lower levels of hydroxyproline — a marker of collagen breakdown. (PMC article)

Shilajit was also found to increase DHEA and testosterone levels in this context, which may help explain its potential effects on recovery and muscle maintenance.

Some early evidence points to changes in the expression of genes related to tissue repair and structural integrity, but more human data is needed.

What About Hair?

There are some theories that fulvic acid — one of Shilajit’s key compounds — may bind to heavy metals and toxins that interfere with hair follicles. Others suggest it may improve mineral absorption, which could support nutrient delivery to the scalp.

Some users mix a small amount of Shilajit with oils like coconut or olive oil and apply it to the scalp. But for now, this remains anecdotal — no solid human studies confirm the benefits for hair growth.

Dosage and Safety Notes

Most sources recommend a daily dosage of 300–500 mg of purified Shilajit. Raw or unprocessed Shilajit is not safe and may contain heavy metals, fungi, or free radicals.

It’s also not recommended if you have:

• Sickle cell anemia
• Hemochromatosis (iron overload)
• Thalassemia

Possible side effects include dizziness, rashes, and elevated heart rate. It may also lower blood pressure, so those with hypotension or heart disease should approach with caution.

Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and contaminants. There’s a lot of low-quality Shilajit on the market, so sourcing matters.

Bottom Line

Shilajit shows potential benefits for men — especially around testosterone levels, fertility markers, and physical recovery. The available research is promising but limited, and more large-scale human studies are needed.

If you’re considering it, make sure the product is purified and start with a conservative dose. And as always, talk to your doctor — especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take other medications.