7 Potential Shilajit Side Effects for Men: Risks, Warnings & Safe Usage Tips

Shilajit has been used for centuries to boost male health, energy levels, and sexual performance. While it offers many benefits, excessive or improper use can lead to serious side effects —some of which may even outweigh its benefits. If you're considering shilajit, it’s essential to understand its potential risks and how to avoid them. This article will help you understand its potential risks, who should avoid it, and how to use it safely.

So, let’s explore the 7 possible shilajit side effects for male and expert-backed strategies to prevent them.

7 Potential Shilajit Side Effects in Men To Be Aware of

Although shilajit is generally safe when taken in moderation, it can cause negative effects in some cases. If you have any pre-existing health conditions, consulting a doctor is highly recommended before using it.

1. Heavy Metal Contamination– Risk of Toxicity

Research shows that unpurified shilajit are rich in arsenic, mercury, or lead. These heavy metals are harmful and may cause digestive distress, kidney damage, and neurological problems. To avoid this, always buy lab-tested, purified shilajit from trusted brands, and don't consume raw or unprocessed forms, as they may contain contaminants.

2. Hormonal Imbalance– Too Much Testosterone

Though moderate use of shilajit may aid in boosting testosterone levels, excessive consumption can lead to hormonal imbalances due to the over-release of testosterone. This can cause hormone-sensitive problems such as aggressive behavior or an enlarged prostate.

So, what you should do is stick to the recommended dose (300-500 mg/day) and consult a doctor first if you have hormonal disorders.

3. Digestive Issues– Nausea, Diarrhea & Stomach Cramps

Though shilajit supports better digestion, it may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some cases. The side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps which majorly occur as the body starts adjusting to shilajit which is either taken in higher doses or is of low quality. To avoid this, start with a low dose and gradually increase, consume only high-quality, purified shilajit, and If symptoms persist, stop use & consult a doctor.

4. Allergic Reactions– Rashes & Breathing Issues

You might experience allergic reactions (in rare cases) with symptoms such as trouble breathing, swelling, or skin rashes. This occurs if you have an allergy to any of the ingredients of shilajit. In case you notice these symptoms, immediately discontinue its use and visit a doctor.

5. Increased Heart Rate– Risk of Heart Palpitations

Shilajit's energizing effects might cause a high or fast heartbeat. So, if you have any existing heart problems, this can lead to shortness of breath or heart palpitations. Avoid shilajit or consult your doctor first if you have any heart disease.

6. Low Blood pressure– Risk of Dizziness & Fainting

Shilajit may lower blood pressure, which can be dangerous if you have hypotension. Side effects include dizziness or fainting, weakness, or blurred vision. If you have low BP or take BP medications, consult a doctor before use.

7. Increased Uric Acid– Risk of Gout & Joint Pain

Excessive shilajit intake can sometimes cause excessive uric acid content in the body which can be fatal. So, avoid it completely if you already have high uric acid or are living with gout. Consult the doctor before using it in such cases.

Who Should Avoid Shilajit? (High-Risk Groups)

Though shilajit provides several benefits for men, it may not be suitable for everyone. So, avoid taking shilajit if you have:

• Blood disorders (sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, hemochromatosis)

• Diabetes (shilajit may lower blood sugar too much)

• Heart disease (may increase heart rate)

• Hypotension (low blood pressure)

If you have any of these conditions, consult your doctor before taking shilajit.

Specific Precautions and Warnings

Consider these specific precautions and warnings when using Shilajit:

• Pre-existing Health Problems

In case of liver or kidney problems, consume shilajit with caution. This is because excessive use leads to increased pressure on both organs, thus, worsening the conditions. So, always seek the doctor's guidance.

• Heart Conditions

As shilajit boosts energy levels, it can impact heart rate if you are living with heart issues such as high blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat. So, use it under medical supervision.

• Low Blood Sugar

As shilajit can lower blood glucose levels, you should avoid it if you have diabetes. So, closely monitor your blood sugar levels properly if you're on any anti-diabetic drugs and discuss them with your doctor before using shilajit.

• Autoimmune Disorders

Since shilajit strengthens the immune system, it might worsen autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. So, avoid it in case of these diseases.

• Surgery Risk

As shilajit may reduce blood sugar levels, it can disrupt blood glucose control during as well as after surgery. Hence, it is advised to stop its use at least 2 weeks before undergoing surgery to prevent complications.

• Quality Control

Always purchase shilajit from renowned and reliable brands. This can prevent the risk of heavy metal contamination. So, choose well-purified and tested shilajit.

Note: Use shilajit under a doctor's guidance, especially if you have medical conditions or taking any drugs or medicines. 

How to Use Shilajit Safely (Without Side Effects)

Best Practices for Safe Use:

• Use a low dose first: Have a small dose and observe your body's reaction before increasing the amount.

• Stick to recommended dosage: Always follow the dosage guidelines advised by doctors or manufacturers.

• Choose a quality product: Buy purified and tested Shilajit from a renowned brand to ensure no risk of contamination.

• Consume with food: Take it with food if you have a sensitive stomach or are struggling with an upset stomach.

• Have with milk or water: Have it with warm milk, water, or herbal tea for easy and quick absorption.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink a lot of water as shilajit has a diuretic effect that increases urine production, making you pee often and causing dehydration.

• Consult with a doctor: If you are on any medications or have any pre-existing health problems, see a doctor for personalized advice.

Can You Take Shilajit Every Day?

No, do not use shilajit every day, as daily consumption is not always safe, particularly in its unprocessed form. This is because it may contain harmful metals and other impurities which may lead to health complications.

Have it in processed form and recommend doses for effective benefits. In addition, for safe use, make sure to purchase the purified and tested shilajit from a reputable source. 

The recommended oral dose is 300-500 mg a day or as prescribed by your doctor.

Shilajit Benefits for Men (When Used Correctly)

Although shilajit has potential side effects, it also offers amazing health benefits when used properly:

• Boosts Testosterone Levels: According to a clinical study, 44 to 55-year-old male volunteers who were given 250 mg of shilajit 2 times a day continuously for about 90 days experienced a significant increase in their testosterone levels. It helps improve libido, energy, and muscle strength.

• Enhances Fertility: One clinical trial of 60 infertile men who took shilajit 2 times a day after meals for 90 days showed that around 60% of men experienced improved sperm count and 12% had increased sperm motility. Thus, this herb is traditionally used to improve male fertility.

• Alleviates Iron Deficiency Anemia: Poor iron absorption and low iron diet can lead to iron deficiency anemia, contributing to irregular heartbeat, headaches, or weakness. So, as shilajit contains 10 to 20 mg of iron content per 100 g, its addition to your diet can help maintain iron levels.

• Improves Prostate Health: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of shilajit can improve prostate health. This potent substance can lower oxidative stress and inflammation in the prostate gland.

• Promotes Muscle Growth: Shilajit can improve muscle growth and ease recovery. It may aid in repairing muscle tissues and lowering inflammation caused by exercises. Hence, it is significantly used by fitness enthusiasts.

• Enhances Brain Function: Fulvic acid in shilajit has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and memory-enhancing effects which help boost cognitive function. It improves mental clarity and concentration, helping you do your everyday activities without distractions.

The key to getting these benefits is proper dosage & quality control!

Final Thoughts– Is Shilajit Safe for You?

From hormonal imbalance to allergic reactions, there are some shilajit side effects for males that can potentially cause problems when taken in inappropriate amounts. So, always make sure to begin with small doses, seek a doctor's help, follow recommended dosages, and source from renowned brands to minimize the side effects.

Remember to prioritize moderation and quality to effectively and safely improve your health.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only. Always consult a medical professional before using any supplement.

Read Also: 12 Evidence-Based Shilajit Benefits for Female