/
/
/
How can I identify fake shilajit to ensure I'm not wasting my money?
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Nutrition
Question #22116
70 days ago
174

How can I identify fake shilajit to ensure I'm not wasting my money? - #22116

Claire

I am really worried about the shilajit I've been buying lately. A couple of weeks ago, I got this jar from an online store, and it was advertised as premium quality shilajit. But I can't shake off this feeling that it's just fake shilajit. I did some research, and everyone is talking how common it is to find fake shilajit out there, and I didn’t realize it until after I ordered! It's just kinda frustrating. I mean, I thought I was being smart by selecting a brand with good reviews. Now I’m not sure what to look for! How am I supposed to know if it’s real or not? Like for example, the color is kinda off, and it doesn't dissolve in warm water as some people say real shilajit should do. I've also heard that the smell is supposed to be a certain way, but mine just smells… well, weird. So, I'm thinking maybe I got scammed? Has anyone else had this issue with fake shilajit? What red flags should I look out for, and how can I tell if I'm genuinely getting the potent stuff? Also, is there any way to test it at home or something? I'm just sooo overwhelmed and worried I'm just throwing my cash down the drain if this stuff is fake shilajit. Any tips would be super helpful! Thanks in advance for your help, guys!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Determining the authenticity of shilajit can indeed be challenging, especially with so many fakes on the market. First, real shilajit's color typically ranges between dark brown to black. If the color looks off, it could be a red flag. Authentic shilajit usually dissolves completely in warm water, leaving no grit behind, and it should impart a golden, tea-like color to the water. If your shilajit isn't dissolving or leaves residue, this might signify it's not genuine. The smell of real shilajit is distinct, often described as earthy or tar-like. If yours smells "weird" but not earthy, it could be suspicious. Also, when tasted, pure shilajit has a sharp, bittery taste, accompanied by an astringent aftertaste. Test these sensory indicators to evaluate your product. One practical test at home involves rolling a small piece between your fingers. Pure shilajit should be quite sticky and soften smoothly with the warmth of your hands, not crumble. If it's dry and crumbles, it's likely not authentic. Another way is to burn a small piece; real shilajit melts, forming ash or droplets; fake versions tend to burn with a flame. From an Ayurvedic perspective, ensure you source shilajit from reputable brands that have lab-tested their products for heavy metals and other contaminants. Trustworthy suppliers often offer transparency about their sourcing and processing methods. If doubt persists, consider consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner for advice. The practitioner can help evaluate the authenticity based on your dosha and health requirements, which emphasize balancing agni and dhatus. Ultimately, investing a bit more in vetted suppliers might be safer to ensure you're not throwing cash away and getting optimal health benefits, as fake shilajit not only dilutes efficacy but might also pose health risks.
26172 answered questions
17% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions