Shilajit and Testosterone: What the Research Actually Shows
Shilajit and Testosterone: What the Research Actually Shows
Of all the claimed benefits of shilajit, its effect on testosterone is the one most backed by human clinical trial data. Here's what the research actually shows — without the hyperbole.
The Clinical Evidence
The most cited human study on shilajit and testosterone is a 2015 double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in Andrologia. 96 infertile men were randomised to receive either purified shilajit or placebo for 90 days. The shilajit group showed significant increases in total testosterone (23.5% increase), free testosterone (19% increase), and DHEA-S (17.6% increase) compared to the placebo group.
A separate 2016 study in healthy men aged 45–55 found that shilajit supplementation at 250mg twice daily for 90 days produced significant increases in total testosterone compared to placebo, along with improvements in self-reported fatigue scores.
Why Might Shilajit Affect Testosterone?
The mechanism isn't fully understood, but several pathways have been proposed. Fulvic acid in shilajit appears to support Leydig cell function in the testes — Leydig cells are responsible for testosterone production. Shilajit also contains trace minerals including zinc, which is essential for testosterone synthesis. Additionally, shilajit's adaptogenic properties may reduce cortisol, which at high levels suppresses testosterone production.
What This Means in Practice
The measured outcomes in research in these trials — 20–23% — are clinically meaningful. For context, testosterone replacement therapy in men with mild hypogonadism typically aims for 20–30% increases. Shilajit won't produce the dramatic effects of testosterone therapy, but for men experiencing natural age-related testosterone decline, it represents a genuine evidence-based option.
Beyond Testosterone
Our Shilajit Complex goes beyond pure shilajit by adding Lion's Mane (cognitive support), Reishi (immune and stress regulation), Ashwagandha (the most extensively studied adaptogen for stress-related markers and testosterone support), and Maca Root (energy and reproductive-health research support). Ashwagandha's own clinical evidence for testosterone support is substantial — making this combination particularly well-suited to men's health goals.
Written by Dr Chun Tang, MBChB, MRCGP — founder of Little Ox and practising UK GP.