Shilajit

Shilajit is a dark, tar‑like exudate that originates from high‑altitude rocks in the Himalayas, Tibetan plateau, and other mountainous regions. It is primarily composed of humic substances (especially ful‑vic acid) and a broad spectrum of trace minerals. Traditionally, it is used as a “rejuvenating” adaptogen to support energy, cognition, and overall vitality.

• Complex Mixture: Shilajit is not a single compound but a complex mixture of humic substances; the primary active component is ful‑vic acid (average molecular weight 1–5 kDa).
• Empirical Formula: Its empirical formula is approximated as C₁₀₀–₁₅₀H₁₀₀–₁₅₀O₅₀–₈₀N₁–₅S₁–₃, reflecting a polymeric, poly‑carboxylated structure rich in phenolic, carbonyl, and hydroxyl groups that confer high chelating capacity.
• IUPAC Descriptor: The IUPAC descriptor for ful‑vic acid is “polyhydroxy‑polycarboxylic acid polymer” – a non‑specific, high‑molecular‑weight constituent.
• Additional Components: In addition to ful‑vic acid, Shilajit contains >84 trace minerals (e.g., Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Se) and small organic molecules (e.g., dibenzo‑α‑pyrones, amino acids, and polyphenols).
• Acidic pH: Its acidic pH (3–5) and high solubility in water facilitate oral absorption.

• Geographic Origins: Commercial Shilajit is harvested from rock fissures in the Himalayas (India, Nepal), the Altai Mountains (Russia, Mongolia), and the Caucasus.
• Extraction Process: Traditional extraction involves washing the raw material, followed by aqueous or ethanol extraction to isolate the soluble ful‑vic fraction, which is then purified through filtration, activated carbon, and sometimes ion-exchange to remove heavy metals.
• Standardization: High‑quality supplements are standardized to ≥20% ful‑vic acid and <10 ppm heavy‑metal content, verified by ICP‑MS and HPLC analyses.
• Authenticity: Authenticity is confirmed by geographic DNA markers and carbon‑isotope profiling.
• Processing Methods: Products that employ “cold‑extraction” and “no‑heat” processing better preserve bioactive constituents.
• Consumer Recommendations: Consumers should prioritize products with third‑party testing (e.g., USP, NSF) and clear sourcing statements to ensure purity and potency.