Shilajit and Stress Management: Hormonal and Nervous Balance

TL;DR — the essentials in 6 points

  1. Chronic stress activates the HPA axis, increases cortisol, and impairs sleep, mood, and energy [1] .
  2. Shilajit is an adaptogen rich in fulvic acid and bioactive compounds that may support homeostasis [2] .
  3. Preclinical work suggests HPS modulation and mitochondria/ATP support, useful against stress-related fatigue [3][6] .
  4. Neuroprotective and procognitive effects are discussed in the literature [4] .
  5. In humans, one study observed testosterone optimization with purified Shilajit (healthy men) [5] .
  6. Quality priority: Batch-specific COA , heavy metals < standards, solvents not detected. See our COA hub .

Understanding stress and its impacts

Stress is the body's response to constraints. Useful in the short term, it becomes problematic when it is chronic : the HPS axis goes into overdrive, cortisol remains high and immune, hormonal and cognitive imbalances can appear [1] .

Shilajit, adaptogen: restore balance

Shilajit is classified as an adaptogen : substances that help the body adapt to stress and maintain homeostasis, without acting as an acute stimulant [2] . Its richness in fulvic acid , minerals and bioactive compounds is central to the proposed effects.

1) Modulation of the HPS & cortisol axis

Animal data suggest a modulatory effect on the HPA axis, which may normalize cortisol secretion and support resilience to stress [3] .

2) Nervous system & sleep

Studies discuss the neuroprotective and procognitive properties of Shilajit, which may contribute to better mental comfort and quality sleep [4] .

3) Overall hormonal balance

Chronic stress affects several hormonal axes. A clinical study on healthy men observed an increase in testosterone with purified Shilajit, suggesting a potential interest for vitality and stress management [5] .

4) Energy & fatigue related to stress

Shilajit is being studied for its support of mitochondria and ATP production, with some benefit against stress-related fatigue [6] .

Key mechanisms proposed

  • Transport & light chelations by fulvic acid (nutrient bioavailability).
  • Mitochondrial and antioxidant support (oxidative stress linked to chronic stress).
  • HPS modulation and stress response (preclinical) [3][6] .

Note: The strength of evidence varies across endpoints (preclinical vs. clinical). See the References section for details of references and limitations.

Reference & Quality Data (COA Quick Read)

Setting Expected beach Method / Standard Interpretation
Fulvic acids (%) Typically 15–60% (depending on material & method) Titration/UV-Vis (announced lab method) Activity indicator; avoid unsourced outliers.
Pb, Cd, Hg, As < regulatory limits ICP-MS Batch safety; check limits/LOQ and analysis date.
Residual solvents Not detected (ND) GC-MS Provides information on the purification process.
Microbiology Compliant ISO (CFU / pathogens) Stability and safety of use.

Direct access to certificates: COA & methodology .

Dosage & Practical Use

  • Forms: resin (tradition) or capsules (practicality). Quality > form.
  • Typical ranges: Follow the product label. Start low, increase cautiously.
  • Timing: morning or early afternoon; adjust if sensitive to sleep.
  • Cycles: possible 5 days ON / 2 days OFF or 8–12 weeks then break.
  • Combinations: to be considered with other adaptogens depending on the objective (stress, energy).

Ready to try purified and tested Shilajit? Discover Ômara Shilajit

FAQ

Does Shilajit Help With Stress?

Shilajit is being studied as an adaptogen that may support the HPA axis, energy, and cognitive function. Human evidence remains limited depending on the endpoints; choose a tested product and supervised use.

Can we take it in the evening?

Many people prefer morning/early afternoon. If you are sensitive to sleep, avoid late evening and adjust as needed.

Resin or capsules?

Both forms exist: quality (COA, purity, contaminants) takes precedence over form. Choose according to your usage preferences.

Are there any interactions?

As a precaution, seek medical advice if you are taking medication (e.g., hormonal, blood thinning) or have a medical condition. Avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding.

References

  1. [1] McEwen B.S. Physiological Reviews 2007;87(3):873-904. Link
  2. [2] Panossian A, Wikman G. Pharmaceuticals 2010;3(1):188-224. Link
  3. [3] Surapaneni DK et al. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2012;143(1):91-99. Link
  4. [4] Carrasco-Gallardo C et al. International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease 2012;2012:674142. Link
  5. [5] Pandit S et al. Andrologia 2016;48(5):570-575. Link
  6. [6] Stohs SJ et al. In: Sustained Energy for Enhanced Human Functions and Activity . Elsevier; 2017:179-191. Link