In a world where modern neuroscience meets ancient Ayurvedic wisdom, one compound has risen to the spotlight: Shilajit resin. Recently, world-renowned neuroscientist and Stanford professor Dr. Andrew Huberman mentioned in a tweet that he takes a pinch of Shilajit daily as part of his supplement routine. This revelation has sparked widespread interest in this mysterious black resin known for its rejuvenating properties.
But what exactly is Shilajit? Why is a neuroscientist like Dr. Huberman using it? And more importantly, should you be considering it too?
Let’s dive deep into the origins, composition, benefits, and scientific backing of Shilajit resin — and explore why this ancient Ayurvedic substance is capturing the attention of modern scientists and health-conscious individuals alike.
What is Shilajit?
Shilajit is a naturally occurring resin-like substance that oozes out of the Himalayan mountains during the warmer months. It’s formed over centuries from the slow decomposition of plants and microbial matter trapped in rock layers, under specific pressure and temperature conditions.
In Ayurveda, it’s classified as a “Rasayana”, which means a rejuvenator or an adaptogen — something that helps restore balance and promotes longevity, vitality, and overall well-being.
Key Constituents of Shilajit Resin:
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Fulvic acid (up to 60–80%) – powerful antioxidant and carrier molecule
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Humic acid – anti-inflammatory and detoxifying
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Dibenzo-α-pyrones (DBPs) – mitochondrial energy boosters
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Trace minerals – including magnesium, zinc, selenium, iron
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Amino acids & phytochemicals – supportive to metabolism
Why Does Dr. Andrew Huberman Take Shilajit?
Dr. Andrew Huberman is known for his evidence-based approach to optimal health and brain performance. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), he casually revealed that he includes a “pinch of Shilajit” as part of his morning routine.
While he hasn’t elaborated extensively on the “why,” we can reasonably infer the motivation based on what science knows about Shilajit’s mechanisms — especially its effects on:
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Mitochondrial function
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Testosterone & fertility
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Brain energy metabolism
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Adaptogenic stress resistance
Let’s explore these in detail.
1. Boosts Mitochondrial Energy Production
The fulvic acid and DBPs found in Shilajit have been shown to stimulate mitochondrial function, the energy-producing factories of your cells.
A 2012 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated that Shilajit enhanced coenzyme Q10 activity, directly improving ATP production — the energy currency of cells.
👉 For someone like Dr. Huberman, who emphasizes neuroplasticity and optimal cognitive function, this benefit alone is a game-changer.
2. Supports Testosterone and Reproductive Health
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 2016 found that men who took purified Shilajit resin (250 mg twice daily) for 90 days showed a 20%+ increase in total testosterone levels.
This makes it especially attractive for men over 35 experiencing symptoms of low energy, reduced libido, or muscle loss — all of which are areas that Dr. Huberman covers regularly in his discussions on male health optimization.
3. Cognitive Benefits and Neuroprotection
Several studies show that fulvic acid has neuroprotective effects, including:
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Reducing tau protein aggregation, linked to Alzheimer’s
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Improving nutrient transport across the blood-brain barrier
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Enhancing mental clarity and memory
For a neuroscientist like Dr. Huberman, who focuses on maintaining high levels of focus, mental energy, and brain longevity, these effects are undoubtedly valuable.
4. Powerful Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Oxidative stress is one of the root causes of chronic fatigue, aging, and neurodegeneration. Shilajit combats this through:
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Neutralizing free radicals
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Reducing lipid peroxidation
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Supporting glutathione production, your body’s master antioxidant
In Ayurvedic terms, Shilajit is said to “scrape away” accumulated toxins, supporting deep rejuvenation. This aligns with Huberman’s biohacking mindset of eliminating chronic cellular stress to optimize system-wide performance.
5. Ayurveda Meets Modern Science
While Huberman’s nod to Shilajit may be recent, Ayurvedic texts like the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita have praised Shilajit for over 3,000 years.
According to Ayurveda, Shilajit:
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Balances all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
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Enhances ojas — the subtle energy responsible for vitality and immunity
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Supports dhatu formation — the building blocks of body tissue
Modern clinical studies have only begun to catch up, validating what ancient practitioners always knew.
Choosing the Right Shilajit: Resin vs Capsules vs Powder
If you’re inspired to try Shilajit like Dr. Huberman, here’s a critical tip:
✅ Always choose pure Shilajit resin — not diluted capsules or suspicious powders.
Why?
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Resin is the least processed, most bioavailable form
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You need only a pinch (100–300 mg) per day
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Many capsules are underdosed or filled with bulking agents
How to Take Shilajit Resin Safely
Here’s how to incorporate it into your daily routine:
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Scoop a pea-sized amount (approx. 250 mg) using a spoon
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Dissolve in warm water, milk, or herbal tea (never boiling)
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Take on an empty stomach in the morning
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Cycle use – 3 months on, 1 month off is a common Ayurvedic practice
Always consult your physician if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medications.
Final Thoughts: Should You Add Shilajit to Your Routine?
If someone like Dr. Andrew Huberman — a man who reads thousands of studies and experiments on himself for better mental and physical performance — trusts Shilajit enough to take it daily, it speaks volumes.
This is not just some traditional folklore remedy — it’s a well-researched, naturally occurring adaptogen that can improve energy, cognitive function, and resilience to stress.
✅ Whether you’re a biohacker, a busy professional, or someone looking to reconnect with ancient wellness, Shilajit resin offers a bridge between tradition and science.
Ready to Try Shilajit?
At Prabhat Ayurvedic Pharmacy, we source pure Himalayan Shilajit resin, lab-tested for safety, heavy metals, and fulvic acid content.
Experience the same benefits embraced by neuroscience and Ayurveda alike.
