Shilajit is a natural mineral pitch or resin that exudes from the rocks of high-altitude mountain ranges, most notably the Himalayas and the Altai Mountains. Formed over centuries from decomposed plant matter, this dark substance is revered in Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenator. The primary active component is fulvic acid, a compound rich in antioxidants and various trace minerals. Understanding shilajit’s interaction with the body’s complex hormonal system requires looking closely at scientific findings regarding its endocrine effects.
Primary Hormonal Influence: Focusing on Androgens
The strongest scientific evidence for shilajit’s hormonal effects centers on its ability to stimulate the production of androgens, specifically testosterone. Clinical studies involving healthy males, typically aged 45 to 55, have demonstrated increases in both total and free testosterone levels following 90 days of supplementation. For example, one study showed participants receiving 500 mg of purified shilajit daily saw an increase of approximately 20% in total testosterone and a 19% rise in free testosterone.
This effect is thought to stem from shilajit’s interaction with the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) axis, which regulates male hormone production. Shilajit appears to support the conversion of cholesterol into the steroid hormone precursor dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), which the body uses to synthesize testosterone. Research indicates that while testosterone and DHEAS increase, gonadotropic hormones like Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) are maintained within a normal range.
Direct Research on Estrogen and Female Hormones
The core question of whether shilajit increases estrogen is answered by looking at the balance it creates, rather than a direct elevation. Studies focusing on male subjects show that shilajit helps maintain estrogen levels within a healthy range, even as testosterone increases. This maintenance of the testosterone-to-estrogen ratio is important for hormonal equilibrium.
This balanced outcome is hypothesized to be shilajit’s ability to modulate the activity of the aromatase enzyme. Aromatase is responsible for converting testosterone into estradiol, the primary form of estrogen. By decreasing aromatase activity, shilajit can slow the rate at which the increased testosterone converts into estrogen. This mechanism supports the overall increase in androgen levels without causing a spike in estrogen.
In female contexts, the data suggests a normalizing effect on sex hormones. For women with low baseline levels of estrogen or progesterone, such as those experiencing fertility challenges, shilajit has been observed to help normalize these levels. This indicates its action is adaptogenic, supporting the body’s natural hormone rhythms and helping to regulate cycles, rather than causing an uncontrolled rise in estrogen.
Broader Endocrine System Interaction
Shilajit’s influence extends beyond sex hormones, playing a role in the broader endocrine system through its adaptogenic properties. As an adaptogen, the substance helps the body manage stress and maintain biological balance. This systemic stability indirectly supports sex hormone function.
A significant part of this effect involves the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which governs the body’s stress response. Shilajit has been noted to help lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Reducing chronic stress and high cortisol levels creates a more favorable internal environment, as excessive cortisol can disrupt the balance of sex hormone production.
Shilajit also offers support to the thyroid gland (HPT axis), which controls metabolism and energy. The fulvic acid content aids in the absorption of essential micronutrients, such as iron, necessary for proper thyroid function. By enhancing the body’s nutritional status and reducing systemic stress, shilajit contributes to a stable hormonal foundation, which benefits the regulation of all downstream hormones, including estrogen.
Usage Caution for Hormone-Sensitive Populations
Individuals with pre-existing conditions sensitive to hormonal fluctuations must exercise caution with shilajit use. People diagnosed with hormone-sensitive cancers, such as certain breast or prostate cancers, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis, should consult a healthcare provider before use. Shilajit’s capacity to modulate hormones means it could interfere with the management of these conditions.
The safety profile for pregnant and breastfeeding women is not well-established. Due to a lack of sufficient data, shilajit is advised against for these populations. Furthermore, the quality of the supplement is paramount because raw, unprocessed shilajit can contain high levels of heavy metals, including lead and mercury. It is essential to choose only purified and third-party tested formulations to mitigate the risk of contamination.