Does Shilajit Have Folic Acid in It?

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

Despite some marketing claims, purified shilajit's nutritional profile does not typically list a significant amount of the synthetic vitamin folic acid. The confusion often arises from shilajit containing fulvic acid, a completely different compound, and trace amounts of naturally occurring folate.

Quick Summary

Shilajit primarily contains fulvic acid and trace minerals, not the synthetic compound folic acid. Its composition is different from multivitamins and can vary based on its origin.

Key Points

Fulvic vs. Folic Acid: The name similarity between fulvic acid (a key component of shilajit) and folic acid (synthetic Vitamin B9) is the root cause of confusion.
Shilajit is a Mineral Complex: Shilajit's primary value comes from its high concentration of fulvic acid and over 84 trace minerals, not its vitamin content.
Not a Reliable Folic Acid Source: Due to natural variations and trace amounts, shilajit should not be considered a reliable source for meeting folic acid or folate requirements.
Prioritize Product Purity: To avoid contamination with heavy metals and other impurities, always choose a purified, third-party tested shilajit product from a reputable source.
Folic Acid is Best from Other Sources: Fortified foods, leafy greens, and dedicated supplements are more consistent and dependable sources of folic acid than shilajit.
Consult a Professional: Always talk to a healthcare provider before taking shilajit, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are pregnant.

Demystifying Shilajit's Composition

Shilajit, a sticky, tar-like substance found in mountainous regions, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is formed from the slow decomposition of plant matter over hundreds of years and is rich in minerals and humic substances. While often celebrated for its mineral content, its vitamin profile is not as straightforward, especially concerning folic acid.

The Source of the Confusion: Fulvic Acid vs. Folic Acid

The main reason for the widespread question "Does shilajit have folic acid?" is the similar sound of two distinct compounds: fulvic acid and folic acid. Fulvic acid is a primary active component of shilajit, while folic acid is the synthetic form of Vitamin B9.

Fulvic Acid in Shilajit

Acts as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
Enhances nutrient absorption and transport of minerals into cells.
Is a major component of shilajit, often accounting for 60-80% of its composition.

Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)

Synthetic, man-made form of the vitamin folate.
Essential for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis.
Crucial for preventing neural tube defects in early pregnancy.

While some supplement companies may list "folic acid" or "folate" in a B-complex-like grouping associated with shilajit, this is often a result of either mislabeling, enrichment, or the presence of trace amounts of natural folate from the plant matter involved in shilajit's formation. The key takeaway is that fulvic acid, not folic acid, is the cornerstone of shilajit's biochemical profile.

The Variable Nature of Shilajit

The chemical composition of shilajit is not uniform and can vary dramatically depending on the geographical origin and specific plant materials involved in its formation. This makes it challenging to guarantee a precise mineral or vitamin content without specific lab testing. Therefore, relying on shilajit as a sole source for a specific vitamin like folic acid is not advisable.

Comparison: Shilajit vs. a Typical Multivitamin

Understanding the fundamental differences between shilajit and a standard multivitamin can clarify why one should not be mistaken for the other.


Feature	Purified Shilajit	Standard Multivitamin
Primary Composition	Humic substances (mostly fulvic acid) and over 84 trace minerals.	Synthetically produced blend of specific vitamins and minerals.
Main Function	Adaptogenic effects, enhanced nutrient transport, antioxidant properties.	Addresses specific dietary gaps for essential vitamins and minerals.
Bioavailability	High, primarily due to fulvic acid acting as a carrier molecule.	Varies, with synthetic forms sometimes being less readily absorbed.
Specific Vitamin Content	Varies; contains natural folate in trace amounts, but not a reliable source of folic acid.	Contains precise, standardized dosages of specific vitamins, including folic acid.
FDA Regulation	Not regulated as a drug; quality and purity can vary significantly.	Regulated as a dietary supplement, but consistency can still vary.

The Risks and Importance of Sourcing

The lack of stringent FDA regulation for dietary supplements like shilajit emphasizes the need for caution. Raw, unpurified shilajit can be contaminated with heavy metals and other impurities, including potentially harmful fungi. Consumers should always choose purified, third-party tested products from reputable brands to ensure safety and quality. The presence of a Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a good indicator of a product's purity.

Conclusion: Shilajit as a Mineral Complex, Not a Vitamin Source

In conclusion, the claim that shilajit contains folic acid is misleading and based on a misunderstanding of its composition. While shilajit is a rich source of fulvic acid and trace minerals, it is not a reliable source of folic acid, the synthetic form of Vitamin B9. The naturally occurring folate present is typically in trace amounts, making multivitamins or fortified foods a much more dependable source for this essential nutrient. When considering shilajit, it should be for its known benefits as a powerful mineral complex and adaptogen, not as a substitute for B-vitamins. Anyone considering supplementation should consult a healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for their individual needs and to confirm product quality.

For more information on the specific functions of folic acid, the National Institutes of Health provides an extensive fact sheet on folate and its role in the body.

Potential Health Benefits and Research

Beyond the folic acid query, shilajit has been studied for a variety of health benefits. Research is ongoing, but initial studies show promise in areas such as:

Increasing testosterone levels
Supporting heart health
Reducing fatigue and boosting energy
Exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
Potentially aiding cognitive function and preventing Alzheimer's disease progression through fulvic acid's action

While promising, many of these findings are based on animal studies or have small sample sizes, and more extensive human trials are needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Folic acid is the synthetic form of Vitamin B9, which is crucial for cell growth and DNA synthesis. Fulvic acid is a primary humic substance found in shilajit that acts as a potent antioxidant and helps transport minerals.

Shilajit has been reported to contain some B vitamins, including trace amounts of naturally occurring folate (Vitamin B9). However, this is not a consistent or reliable aspect of its nutritional profile.

No, you should not use shilajit as a substitute for a prescribed or recommended folic acid supplement. Shilajit is not a standardized source of Vitamin B9, and other sources like fortified foods and multivitamins are much more reliable.

Yes, fulvic acid is considered one of the most beneficial components of shilajit. It aids in the absorption of minerals, provides antioxidant support, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

To ensure your shilajit supplement is safe, look for a reputable brand that provides third-party testing results, often in the form of a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Avoid unpurified or raw shilajit, which can contain contaminants.

People with conditions like hemochromatosis (excess iron), sickle cell anemia, or thalassemia should avoid shilajit due to its potential to increase iron levels. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also consult a doctor before use.

Reliable sources of folic acid include fortified breakfast cereals, bread, pasta, and supplements. Foods naturally rich in folate include dark leafy greens, beans, and oranges.