Are there any disadvantages of taking shilajit?

December 15, 2025 •

2 min read

According to research, unprocessed or impure shilajit is a significant health risk due to potential heavy metal contamination. The question, "are there any disadvantages of taking shilajit?", goes beyond minor side effects, encompassing serious risks associated with poor-quality products and certain health conditions.

Quick Summary

Shilajit is generally safe when purified and used in recommended doses, but unpurified versions can contain harmful contaminants like heavy metals. Potential side effects can include digestive issues, allergic reactions, and adverse interactions with certain medications and medical conditions, including low blood pressure and iron overload disorders.

Key Points

Heavy Metal Contamination: Unprocessed or impure shilajit contains dangerous heavy metals.
Source and Purification are Key: Safety depends on proper sourcing and purification.
Potential Side Effects: Mild side effects like digestive issues may occur.
Contraindications and Drug Interactions: Shilajit is unsafe for individuals with certain health conditions and can interact with medications.
Consult a Professional: Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking shilajit.
No FDA Regulation: Supplements are not FDA-regulated; third-party testing is crucial.

The Primary Disadvantage: Heavy Metal Contamination

One of the most significant disadvantages of shilajit is the risk posed by impure products. As a natural substance, raw shilajit can be contaminated with heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic, along with other impurities. Proper purification is crucial for safe consumption. Unprocessed or poorly processed products may contain heavy metals and other toxins.

The Dangers of Unprocessed Shilajit

Contamination Risks: Heavy metal levels can vary.
Health Concerns: Long-term exposure to heavy metals can lead to health issues.
Lack of Regulation: Supplements like shilajit are not FDA-regulated, highlighting the need for verifying safety.

Potential Side Effects and Allergic Reactions

While purified shilajit is usually well-tolerated, some individuals might experience side effects. These are typically mild.

Common Mild Reactions

Digestive Issues: Some users report stomach discomfort or diarrhea.
Allergic Symptoms: Rare allergic reactions like itching or dizziness have been reported.
Other: A small number of users have experienced dizziness or headaches.

How to Minimize Risks

To reduce side effects, start with a low dose.

Medication Interactions and Contraindications

Shilajit can interact with medications and is not suitable for everyone. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential.

Who Should Avoid Shilajit?

Iron Overload: Individuals with conditions like hemochromatosis should avoid shilajit due to its iron content.
Low Blood Pressure: Shilajit can lower blood pressure.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Safety data is insufficient.
Autoimmune Conditions: Caution is advised as shilajit might affect the immune system.

Comparison: Pure vs. Impure Shilajit


Feature	Pure, Lab-Tested Shilajit	Impure, Raw Shilajit
Source Quality	Sourced from specific, high-altitude regions.	Origin often undisclosed.
Processing	Undergoes rigorous purification.	Unprocessed or poorly processed.
Safety	Generally safe for healthy adults in recommended doses.	High risk of heavy metal poisoning.
Certification	Often has third-party lab results.	Lacks certification; authenticity questionable.
Side Effects	Typically mild or non-existent.	Increased risk of severe side effects.

Conclusion: Navigating Shilajit's Risks Safely

Shilajit has disadvantages, primarily concerning product quality and potential contamination. Choosing high-quality, third-party lab-tested products from reliable sources is key to mitigating the risk of heavy metal exposure. Potential side effects like digestive upset may occur, and shilajit is not suitable for individuals with specific health issues such as iron overload or low blood pressure. Understanding and addressing these disadvantages through careful selection and medical consultation can help consumers use shilajit more safely. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine if shilajit is appropriate for your health needs. {Link: Consensus https://consensus.app/search/shilajit-heavy-metal-risks/I86lsb7WSIGd4CnU86Jg-Q/}.

Frequently Asked Questions

The biggest risk is consuming impure or unprocessed shilajit, which can be contaminated with toxic heavy metals.

Yes, shilajit may lower blood pressure. This is a concern for individuals who already have low blood pressure or are on medication.

While rare, allergic reactions can occur. Symptoms may include dizziness, itching, or a rash.

Yes, people with an iron overload disorder like hemochromatosis should avoid shilajit due to its iron content.

No, it is advised to avoid shilajit due to a lack of reliable safety information.

Yes, shilajit can interact with certain medications, including those for diabetes and high blood pressure.

Look for a reputable brand providing third-party lab-testing results (COA) confirming it is free of heavy metals.