You may have noticed Shilajit appearing more often in the world of supplements and everyday wellness. But what exactly is it, where does it come from, and what do terms such as “10:1 extract” and “fulvic acid” actually mean?
Here, we break down the basics and take a closer look at this fascinating traditional ingredient.
WHAT IS SHILAJIT?
Shilajit is a naturally occurring substance traditionally associated with mountainous regions, particularly the Himalayas. It is a complex material containing organic compounds, minerals and humic substances, including fulvic acid.
Shilajit has a long history of traditional use in Ayurveda and has become an increasingly recognised ingredient in modern supplements. Scientific interest in its composition has also grown, although research into many of its proposed health effects is still developing.
Because Shilajit is a naturally derived material, its composition can vary depending on its geographical source and how it has been collected and processed.
WHERE DOES SHILAJIT COME FROM?
Shilajit is commonly described as a dark, resin-like material associated with rock formations in mountainous environments.
Over time, naturally occurring organic material undergoes complex transformation processes, resulting in the characteristic substance known as Shilajit.
Its natural origin is also one reason why quality and processing matter. Published literature has noted the importance of using appropriately purified Shilajit preparations, particularly because unprocessed material may contain undesirable contaminants.
WHAT IS FULVIC ACID?
If you've been researching Shilajit, you've probably come across the term fulvic acid.
Fulvic acid belongs to a group of naturally occurring organic materials known as humic substances, which are recognised components of Shilajit. Research literature frequently discusses fulvic acid when characterising the chemical composition of Shilajit.
However, not every Shilajit ingredient will contain exactly the same amount.
The composition of a natural material can vary according to factors such as its source and processing method, which is why it is worth looking at the specification for the particular extract used in a supplement, rather than assuming all Shilajit is identical.
The Shilajit extract used in PRO VITAMIN CO. Shilajit+ Gummies is specified by our ingredient supplier as containing approximately 3-5% fulvic acid.
WHAT DOES “10:1 EXTRACT” MEAN?
This is one of the most commonly misunderstood terms on botanical supplement labels.
A 10:1 extract ratio generally indicates the relationship between the amount of starting material used and the amount of resulting extract.
In simple terms, a 10:1 ratio can indicate that approximately 10 parts of starting material were used to produce 1 part of extract.
However, it does not automatically mean that the resulting ingredient is “10 times stronger.”
The characteristics of an extract can also depend on the quality and composition of the starting material, extraction method, solvents, processing conditions and any other components in the finished extract.
So when comparing Shilajit products, the extract ratio is useful information - but it shouldn't be considered in isolation.
IS ALL SHILAJIT THE SAME?
Not necessarily.
As a naturally derived material, Shilajit's composition may vary according to its geographical origin, raw material and processing.
This is why two products that both say “Shilajit” on the front of the pack aren't necessarily identical.
When looking at a Shilajit supplement, it can be useful to consider:
• The amount of Shilajit extract per serving
• The extract ratio, where provided
• Information about standardisation or characteristic constituents, where available
• The recommended serving
• The complete formulation
• The format that best suits your routine
It's also worth remembering that a larger extract ratio doesn't by itself establish that one extract is superior to another.
WHY PUT SHILAJIT IN A GUMMY?
Traditional Shilajit is often associated with a resin-like format, but that isn't necessarily the most convenient option for everyone.
At PRO VITAMIN CO., we're interested in finding more enjoyable and convenient ways to incorporate supplements into everyday routines.
A gummy provides a simple, pre-portioned format without the need to handle a resin or mix a powder.
And, of course, there's taste.
We believe taking your daily supplements should be something that fits easily into your routine - not something you have to convince yourself to do.
DISCOVER PRO VITAMIN CO. SHILAJIT+
PRO VITAMIN CO. Shilajit+ Gummies combine Shilajit extract with a convenient, great-tasting gummy format designed for everyday use.
Our formula uses a 10:1 Shilajit extract, with the ingredient supplier specifying approximately 3-5% fulvic acid in the Shilajit extract used.
DISCOVER SHILAJIT+ →
A FINAL WORD
Shilajit may have a long traditional history, but its arrival in modern supplement formats has created plenty of new questions.
Understanding terms such as extract ratio and fulvic acid can make it easier to interpret a product label and understand what you're actually choosing.
At PRO VITAMIN CO., we're all about making supplements easier to understand - and easier to enjoy.
REFERENCES
1. Monagas M, et al. Understanding plant to extract ratios in botanical extracts. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2022.
2. Carrasco-Gallardo C, Guzmán L, Maccioni RB. Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity.
International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease. 2012.
3. National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Botanical Dietary Supplements: Background Information.