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how to know original shilajit
General Medicine
Consultation #39528
250 days ago
597

how to know original shilajit - #39528

Brooklyn
FREE

I am really confused and need some urgent advice! A few weeks ago, I started taking shilajit after hearing how great it is for energy and overall health, but now I'm not sure if what I bought is the real deal. I ordered it online, and it came in this tiny tub with no real brand name, just a label that says "purified shilajit." Sounds a bit sketchy, right? It’s black and sticky, and it smells kinda earthy, but is that enough to tell if it’s legit? A friends told me that I should know how to know original shilajit, but honestly, I have no clue what to look for! I’ve been taking it for nearly a week, and I don't feel much different yet. Like, should I feel more energized by now? Or maybe some other benefits? I have no idea if this is normal or if I just got ripped off. Besides the look and texture of shilajit, what else should I trust? A part of me feels I should test it somehow, like the water test or something? Ugh, I'm feeling really anxious about this whole thing and don’t want to waste my money on fake stuff. Any tips on how to know original shilajit would be incredibly helpful! Thanks!

Consultation is closed

Doctors' responses

Dr. Prasad Pentakota
Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery
248 days ago
5

Determining authentic shilajit can be quite a task given the variations and adulteration in the market. Nonetheless, there are some known methods you can employ to check it’s purity and authenticity. First, you can perform the water test you mentioned. Real shilajit dissolves completely in water, leaving no residue, forming a golden brown or reddish liquid. If any part floats or stays clumped, it may not be pure.

Next, the taste should be somewhat bitter, while leaving a tingling sensation. The aroma as you already mentioned, should be earthy but not overwhelming. Consider also doing a flame test. Pure shilajit is inflammable and won’t burn; if it does catch fire, it’s likely not pure.

Look into the sourcing information provided by the seller or manufacturer. Authentic shilajit is usually sourced from Himalayan or Siberian regions, so any different sourcing could be a red flag. If there’s limited or no transparency about the origin or processing method, it can be a warning sign.

Regarding the effects, it’s important to note that shilajit may not produce immediate sensation of energy or other benefits. Such Ayurvedic formulations work gradually, balancing doshas and enhancing ojas (vitality). Effects vary based on individual constitution (prakriti) and current health status, so measuring changes might take a few weeks.

When in doubt, consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner who can guide you on quality sources and the proper dosage according to your unique body constitution. And always remember, if something feels off or is causing you concern about safety, it’s wise to pause and seek professional advice. Your health should always be your top priority.

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Dr. Snehal Vidhate
Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery
243 days ago
5

Determining the authenticity of shilajit is indeed crucial, as the quality can vary greatly. While it’s difficult to ensure purity and original quality just by appearance, there are some characteristics you can check. Genuine shilajit typically has a strong earthy smell and its texture should be sticky, resin-like. These signs you’ve described—black color, sticky consistency, and earthy smell—are aligned with authentic shilajit. However, these signs alone aren’t sufficient to guarantee purity.

One approach you can consider is the solubility test. Place a small amount in warm water and observe—authentic shilajit should dissolve completely, leaving no residue, though soluble impurities might still be present. Additionally, taste can provide a clue; real shilajit has a somewhat bitter, smoky flavor. However, while these tests might help, they are not foolproof.

In terms of effects, it is acclimated to the individual constitution and imbalances; don’t feel disheartened if it doesn’t immediately boost energy levels. Shilajit’s benefits can build gradually over time as it nourishes dhatus (tissues) and balances doshas. To assist your body in absorbing shilajit more effectively, consider taking it with warm milk or water sometime in morning, before breakfast, it can help enhance its rasayana (rejuvenation) impact.

For those seeking authenticity, obtaining shilajit from a reputable source or an Ayurveda-certified store is recommended. This way, you can better ensure its quality. If these natural methods don’t provide reassurance, you might consider third-party laboratory testing. In all instances, always consider how your body is responding and consult a qualified practitioner for personalized advice on dosha-specific treatments.

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