What Is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a blackish-brown resin that forms over centuries from the partial decomposition of plant and microbial material compressed within rock formations. It is rich in fulvic acid, humic acid, and over 80 trace minerals. Quality preparations are standardised to fulvic acid content. ViriFlow contains shilajit standardised to 40% fulvic acid, which is a high-quality preparation.
Quick Facts
- Source: Himalayan rock formations (and other mountain ranges)
- Key active component: Fulvic acid
- Standardisation in ViriFlow: 40% fulvic acid
- Primary research areas: Testosterone, fertility, energy, mineral bioavailability
- Traditional use: Ayurvedic medicine (rasayana, rejuvenation category)
- Evidence level: Multiple human clinical trials
Shilajit and Testosterone
One of the most studied aspects of shilajit in men is its effect on testosterone levels. A notable double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in Andrologia (2016) found that healthy men aged 45 to 55 who took 250 mg of purified shilajit twice daily for 90 consecutive days showed significantly increased total testosterone, free testosterone, and DHEA-S levels compared to placebo. These findings are meaningful because testosterone decline is a natural aspect of male ageing that affects energy, mood, muscle mass, and libido.
Shilajit and Sperm Quality
A separate clinical trial investigated shilajit's effects on male fertility. The study found significant improvements in total sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology in men who supplemented with shilajit for 90 days compared to those who received placebo. These outcomes are attributed to shilajit's fulvic acid content and its role in mitochondrial energy production, which is critical for sperm cell function.
Shilajit and Cellular Energy
Fulvic acid, shilajit's primary active compound, plays a role in mitochondrial function, the cellular energy production system. Research suggests fulvic acid helps transport nutrients into cells and may enhance the efficiency of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, the cellular energy currency. This mechanism is proposed to underlie the reported energy and vitality effects attributed to shilajit in traditional use and in contemporary clinical observation.
Shilajit and Mineral Bioavailability
Fulvic acid acts as a carrier molecule that may enhance the absorption and bioavailability of minerals. In the context of ViriFlow, which contains multiple mineral-rich seaweed ingredients, the inclusion of shilajit may support more effective use of the minerals present in the formula. This is a proposed synergistic benefit rather than a confirmed clinical finding for this specific product.
Shilajit Safety and Quality Considerations
Raw or unprocessed shilajit can contain heavy metals and should never be used. Only processed, purified shilajit standardised to fulvic acid content is appropriate for supplemental use. ViriFlow's shilajit is standardised to 40% fulvic acid, indicating it has been processed and quality-controlled. At supplemental doses, processed shilajit is generally well-tolerated. Men with diabetes should note that shilajit may have mild effects on blood glucose levels.
Shilajit's Role in ViriFlow
ViriFlow includes shilajit as a systemic male health support ingredient within its 700 mg proprietary blend. It is not the primary prostate-targeted ingredient (that role falls to saw palmetto and pygeum), but it contributes to the formula's broader male vitality and mineral support profile. For the full ingredient list, see ViriFlow's complete ingredient breakdown.
Shilajit for Men Summary
- Standardised to 40% fulvic acid in ViriFlow (high-quality preparation)
- Clinical trial evidence for increased total and free testosterone in men aged 45 to 55
- Evidence for improved sperm count, motility, and morphology in infertile men
- Fulvic acid supports mitochondrial energy production and cellular function
- May enhance mineral bioavailability from other ingredients in the formula
- Raw shilajit should not be used; only processed, standardised preparations are appropriate
- Mild blood glucose effects: diabetic men should consult their physician