Shilajit is a resin-like substance that forms over centuries within layers of sedimentary rock, primarily in the Himalayan region. Traditionally valued in Ayurvedic practice for its rejuvenating properties, shilajit has been used for thousands of years as a natural wellness ingredient.
The global market for shilajit is estimated at $208.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $454.6 billion by 2034, growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.03%.
While much of the existing research and consumer focus has centered on men’s health, awareness of shilajit benefits for women is rapidly increasing. For supplement brand owners, this represents a strong opportunity to meet growing demand in an underserved market.
In this article, we’ll explore the key benefits of shilajit for women and why this unique natural compound deserves attention in your product development strategy.
What Is Shilajit and How Does It Work?
If you’ve ever wondered, “Does shilajit actually work?”, the answer begins with understanding what it is and how it’s formed. Shilajit is a naturally occurring resin that seeps from layers of rock in mountainous regions such as the Himalayas.1David, F. and Vasant, L. 2001. The Yoga of Herbs. Twin Lakes, WI: Lotus Press. Its name, derived from Sanskrit, translates to “Conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness,” reflecting its long-standing role in traditional Ayurvedic wellness practices.2Agarwal SP, Khanna R, Karmarkar R, Anwer MK, Khar RK. Shilajit: a review. Phytother Res. 2007 May;21(5):401-5.
From a compositional standpoint, shilajit is a complex mixture of organic and inorganic materials formed from the long-term decomposition of ancient plant and microbial matter in soil, peat, and sediment.3Ghosal, S. The aroma principles of Gomutra and Karpuragandha Shilajit. Indian J Indg Med 1994;11:11–14. It primarily contains substances such as fulvic and humic acids, along with approximately 20% minerals, including calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It also features amino acids, proteins, fatty acids, and phenolic compounds like caffeic and gallic acids.4Kamgar E, Kaykhaii M, Zembrzuska J. A Comprehensive Review on Shilajit: What We Know about Its Chemical Composition. Crit Rev Anal Chem. 2025;55(3):461-473. doi: 10.1080/10408347.2023.2293963. Epub 2023 Dec 22. PMID: 38133965. These bioactive components are believed to contribute to its overall nutritional and adaptogenic value, supporting general vitality and well-being.5Sharma P, Jha J, Shrinivas V, Dwivedi LK, Suresh P, Sinha M. Shilajit: evalution of its effects on blood chemistry of normal human subjects. Anc Sci Life. 2003 Oct;23(2):114-9. PMID: 22557121; PMCID: PMC3330960. 6Pingali U, Nutalapati C. Shilajit extract reduces oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss to dose-dependently preserve bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Phytomedicine. 2022 Oct;105:154334. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154334. Epub 2022 Jul 19. PMID: 35933897. 7Das A, Datta S, Rhea B, Sinha M, Veeraragavan M, Gordillo G, Roy S. The Human Skeletal Muscle Transcriptome in Response to Oral Shilajit Supplementation. J Med Food. 2016 Jul;19(7):701-9. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2016.0010. PMID: 27414521; PMCID: PMC4948208. 8Sharma P, Jha J, Shrinivas V, Dwivedi LK, Suresh P, Sinha M. Shilajit: evalution of its effects on blood chemistry of normal human subjects. Anc Sci Life. 2003 Oct;23(2):114-9. PMID: 22557121; PMCID: PMC3330960.
While ongoing research continues to explore its potential mechanisms, shilajit remains one of nature’s most intriguing and multifaceted ingredients for modern dietary supplements.
Key Health Benefits of Shilajit for Women
While traditionally studied for men’s health, recent attention has shifted toward understanding the health benefits of shilajit for women, as more research explores its potential to support overall wellness.
So, what does shilajit do for women? Early findings and traditional use suggest it may help maintain balanced energy, promote healthy skin and bones, and support overall vitality. Shilajit is also gaining attention for its potential role in areas such as hormonal balance, cardiovascular wellness, and healthy weight management. Each of these topics will be explored in more detail below.
Shilajit for Hormonal Balance
Research has examined the effects of shilajit supplementation on hormone levels in both men and women. In one placebo-controlled study,9Mohammed RK, Taha HSM, Abid QH, Mohammed HJ. The effect of shilajit herb on sexual hormonal level in male and female in karbala province. (2025). Journal of Advance Multidisciplinary Research. 2025; 4(1), 41-46. https://www.synstojournals.com/multi/article/view/158 female participants who took shilajit experienced measurable increases in serum estrogen and progesterone levels, although all values remained within normal physiological ranges.
These initial findings suggest that shilajit may help support overall hormonal balance, but additional research is needed to confirm its role and relevance for women’s health.
Shilajit for Increased Energy
Several studies have explored how shilajit may influence energy and endurance. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind, crossover, clinical trial10Maharaj V, Tripathi PC, Tripathi S, Banerjee D, Islam A. Clinical Evaluation of Safety & Efficacy of Shilajit (PrimaVie-Shilajit for Improving Human Performance In Exercise Study of Healthy Volunteers – a Placebo controlled Study. Final Report Project No.: NAT/CR/20100901. Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama Hospital(Ayurvedic Unit), Narendrapur, Kolkata-700103. 2012., 48 healthy volunteers, including recreational athletes, participants who took 250 mg of shilajit twice daily showed a measurable improvement in exercise time compared to the placebo group.
In another small study,11Ghosal S, Pal D, Bhattacharyya S. Pilot Study on the Improvement of Human Performance with PrimaVie® as Energy Booster: Part-IV. Project No.: NAT/CHEM-7/09/06. Natreon Inc. (India), Kolkata CL-18A, Salt Lake City. Sector-II, Kolkata 700 091. 2006. six healthy adults received 200 mg of shilajit prior to aerobic exercise. Researchers observed an increase in adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the compound that supports the body’s natural energy production.
While these findings are preliminary, they suggest shilajit may play a supportive role in maintaining energy and endurance levels.
Shilajit for Skin Health
Shilajit has also demonstrated skin benefits vis-à-vis inducing gene expression and can therefore be considered a legitimate beauty-from-within nutraceutical. For example, in a randomized, placebo-controlled, 14-week study12Das A, S El Masry M, Gnyawali SC, Ghatak S, Singh K, Stewart R, Lewis M, Saha A, Gordillo G, Khanna S. Skin Transcriptome of Middle-Aged Women Supplemented With Natural Herbo-mineral Shilajit Shows Induction of Microvascular and Extracellular Matrix Mechanisms. J Am Coll Nutr. 2019 Aug;38(6):526-536. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2018.1564088. Epub 2019 Jun 4. PMID: 31161927; PMCID: PMC7027386. involving 45 healthy adult women, participants received either 125 mg or 250 mg of shilajit twice daily or a placebo. The higher-dose group showed measurable improvements in skin microperfusion (an indicator of healthy circulation within the skin) and changes in gene expression associated with endothelial cell activity and blood vessel formation.
In another 8-week randomized, placebo-controlled trial with 35 recreationally trained men, participants supplemented daily with 500 mg or 1,000 mg of shilajit. Both groups demonstrated increases in serum pro-c1α1, a biomarker linked to collagen synthesis, while no changes were observed in the placebo group.
These findings indicate that shilajit may help support healthy skin structure and appearance, although further research is needed to confirm its long-term effects.
Shilajit for Bone Health
A 48-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial13Pingali U, Nutalapati C. Shilajit extract reduces oxidative stress, inflammation, and bone loss to dose-dependently preserve bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Phytomedicine. 2022 Oct;105:154334. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154334. Epub 2022 Jul 19. PMID: 35933897. involving 60 postmenopausal women aged 45 to 65 evaluated the effects of daily shilajit supplementation (250 mg or 500 mg) compared to a placebo on bone health. The results showed that shilajit helped preserve bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar spine and femoral neck in a dose-dependent manner.
These findings suggest that shilajit may support bone health in postmenopausal women, although further studies are needed to confirm these outcomes and understand the underlying mechanisms.
Shilajit for Sexual Health
A 60-day triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial14Mosavi S, Tabarrai M, Tansaz M, et al. Effects of oral Shilajit tablets on sexual function and sexual quality of life among reproductive-aged women: a triple-blind randomized clinical trial. Tradit Med. 2023;8(11):66. doi: 10.53388/TMR20230305002. involving 43 married women of reproductive age evaluated the effects of shilajit supplementation (200 mg twice daily) compared to a placebo on female sexual function. Participants in the shilajit group showed measurable improvements in total scores on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), a standardized tool used to assess various aspects of sexual wellness.
These results suggest that shilajit may help support aspects of female sexual health, although additional research is needed to confirm these findings and better understand the mechanisms involved.
Shilajit for Cardiovascular Health
A 12-week, prospective, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial15Rani PU, Sravanti IV, Fatima N, Muralidhar N. Salomi R. Study of Shilajit ( PrimaVie®) in modifying cardiovascular risk with special reference to Endothelial dysfunction in patients with Type2 Diabetes Mellitus. Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Nizam’s Institute of Medical SciencesPunjagutta, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. Submitted for publication. 2014. involving 40 men and women aged 18 to 75 evaluated the effects of shilajit supplementation (250 mg twice daily) compared to a placebo on markers of cardiovascular wellness. Participants in the shilajit group experienced measurable increases in nitric oxide levels, which are associated with healthy circulation and vascular function. The study also reported improvements in endothelial function (functioning of the inner lining of blood vessels), heart workload efficiency, and tissue perfusion (O2 supply vs. demand), along with support for maintaining cholesterol and triglyceride levels already within the normal range.
While these findings are encouraging, additional research is needed to confirm the role of shilajit in promoting cardiovascular health.
Shilajit for Weight Management
A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial16Martinez V, McAngus K, Dickerson BL, Leonard M, Chavez E, Chun J, Lewis M, Xing D, Gonzalez DE, Yoo C, Ko J, Rhodes H, Lee H, Sowinski RJ, Rasmussen CJ, Kreider RB. Effects of 12 Weeks of Chromium, Phyllanthus emblica Fruit Extract, and Shilajit Supplementation on Markers of Cardiometabolic Health, Fitness, and Weight Loss in Men and Women with Risk Factors to Metabolic Syndrome Initiating an Exercise and Diet Intervention: A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2025 Jun 19;17(12):2042. doi: 10.3390/nu17122042. PMID: 40573153; PMCID: PMC12196397. involving 109 sedentary men and women with metabolic risk factors was conducted to evaluate if the co-ingestion of Phyllanthus emblica (PE) with trivalent chromium (Cr) and shilajit, or PE alone, would have an impact during a structured exercise and diet program.
Participants who received the combination of shilajit, PE, and Cr demonstrated modest improvements in body composition, including reductions in body fat percentage, as well as gains in strength, aerobic capacity, and insulin sensitivity compared to placebo, particularly by week six.
These findings suggest that shilajit, when used in combination with other bioactive ingredients and lifestyle interventions, may help support healthy metabolic function. However, because this study included additional compounds (PE and Cr), it cannot be concluded that shilajit alone would produce the same effects.
Choosing the Right Shilajit Supplement: Essential Factors to Consider
Now we’ve answered the question, “What are the benefits of shilajit for women?”, you may be considering adding a shilajit product to your brand’s portfolio. If so, it’s important to choose the right supplement delivery format.
Gummies are generally not recommended, as shilajit has a naturally strong, resinous taste that can be difficult to mask. Capsules or tablets are often the most consumer-friendly options, while powders may be suitable if the serving size is large enough to incorporate flavoring agents that offset the taste.
Another key consideration is heavy metal content. Because shilajit is a rock-derived resin, certain sources may contain higher levels of naturally occurring minerals and metals. To ensure product safety and compliance, it’s essential to partner with a supplements contract manufacturer experienced in sourcing and testing raw materials. A qualified manufacturing partner can help you identify a reputable shilajit supplier whose specifications demonstrate acceptable levels of heavy metals.
Finally, it’s critical to use clinically relevant dosages of shilajit in your formulation if you plan to reference research-supported benefits. Aligning your dosage levels with published studies not only enhances credibility but also helps ensure your finished product meets consumer expectations for quality and efficacy.
Wrapping Up the Discussion on Shilajit Benefits for Women
By now, you should have a clearer understanding of the many benefits of Himalayan shilajit for women and how this remarkable natural ingredient can enhance a women’s wellness product line. From supporting energy, vitality, and skin health to promoting overall balance and well-being, shilajit offers a strong opportunity for supplement brands looking to innovate in a rapidly growing category. As consumer awareness continues to rise, so does the potential for differentiation through quality formulation, credible sourcing, and evidence-based positioning.
For more information on how Vitaquest can help you custom manufacture high-quality shilajit supplements for women, call 800-526-9095 to speak with one of our knowledgeable production specialists, or request a nutraceutical manufacturing price quote if your project requirements are already finalized.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shilajit for Women
How Does Shilajit Compare to Other Adaptogenic Supplements Like Ashwagandha or Rhodiola for Women’s Health?
While adaptogens share similar properties that support overall well-being, each offers unique characteristics. Shilajit stands out for its clinically studied effects related to skin and bone health, setting it apart from other adaptogenic ingredients such as ashwagandha and rhodiola in women’s wellness formulations.
What Factors Influence the Quality of Shilajit Supplements in the Market?
It is important to choose shilajit ingredients that are supported by human clinical research demonstrating safety and quality. Not all sources are equal, as differences in purification and sourcing can affect purity. Because shilajit is mineral-rich, always confirm that your supplier can provide evidence of laboratory testing to ensure acceptable levels of naturally occurring heavy metals.
How Can Brands Ensure the Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing of Shilajit?
It is best to use shilajit material that is USDA organic, GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe), Halal, and Kosher, Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan. Also, it is important to utilize a material that is lab-tested for purity and the absence of banned substances.
What are the Key Challenges in Manufacturing Shilajit-based Supplements?
Because shilajit has a naturally strong, resinous taste, it’s generally not recommended for use in gummies. Powders can be an option if sufficient flavoring agents are added to help mask the taste, though this often depends on the serving size. In most cases, the most practical and consumer-friendly delivery formats are tablets or capsules, which effectively minimize taste-related challenges while maintaining product quality and stability.
What are the Regulatory Considerations for Incorporating Shilajit into Dietary Supplements?
The regulatory considerations are the same as any other nutraceutical in terms of adhering to the GMPs and the regulations (DSHEA, FSMA, FPLA, and others).
What Testing Protocols are Essential for Ensuring the Purity and Potency of Shilajit Supplements?
Confirmation of the various compounds in shilajit may require analytical testing using advanced techniques such as high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). Certain components, such as fulvic acids and related compounds, may also require gravimetric analysis. As with any nutraceutical ingredient, heavy metal and microbiological testing are essential to ensure safety and quality.
