Shilajit is a natural substance derived from the mountains, used for its health and energy-boosting properties. One of its main components is fulvic acid, which helps the body absorb nutrients and promotes a sense of increased energy and activity. Some products claim to be better because they have more fulvic acid, but is more always better? Not really. Too much of it might not be good and could even cause harm. In this blog, we’ll look at whether a higher amount of fulvic acid makes shilajit more powerful—or if a balanced mix is the better choice.
What is fulvic acid, and why is it important in shilajit?
Fulvic acid is a natural compound found in soil, plants, and shilajit. It’s known for its ability to help the body absorb minerals and nutrients more easily. In shilajit, fulvic acid is one of the key ingredients that gives it its health-boosting effects.
Some of the benefits linked to fulvic acid include:
- Improved digestion and gut health
- Better absorption of vitamins and minerals
- More energy and reduced fatigue
- Stronger immune response
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Because of these benefits, many shilajit brands highlight how much fulvic acid they contain. But there’s more to the story.
Why do Brands promote “Higher Fulvic Acid Is Always Better in Shilajit?
Many shilajit brands promote their products by claiming they contain 70% or even 85% fulvic acid, making it sound like more is always better. These numbers are often used in marketing to suggest that the product is stronger, purer, or delivers faster results. While it’s true that fulvic acid has health benefits, relying only on its percentage can be misleading.
The truth is, shilajit is a complex mix of minerals, humic substances, and other natural compounds. When the focus is only on increasing fulvic acid, other important nutrients may be lost during processing. In some cases, a high percentage could even mean the product includes added fulvic acid extract rather than being a natural, balanced resin. So, a bigger number on the label doesn’t always mean a better or more effective product.
Can higher fulvic acid content in shilajit be harmful?
No doubt, fulvic acid offers many health benefits. But having too much of it might not be a good thing. Scientific studies also support this point.
Laboratory research shows that extremely high concentrations of fulvic acid can act as pro‑oxidants, potentially causing oxidative stress instead of offering its usual protective effects.
- For example, in Schepetkin et al. (2009), shilajit fractions rich in fulvic acid demonstrated potent immune‑modulating activity in lab tests. However, the study did not indicate that higher amounts produced stronger benefits—only that carboxylic group content, a chemical signature of fulvic acid, contributes to complement-fixing activity in moderation.
- Carrasco‑Gallardo et al. (2012) reviewed shilajit’s potential cognitive benefits and noted fulvic acid’s role in anti-tau protein action (a mechanism relevant to Alzheimer’s). But even here, they emphasized the phytocomplex—the full blend of humic acids, minerals, and other compounds—as the crucial element. No research conclusion claimed that isolated, ultra‑concentrated fulvic acid is superior.
- In human studies, supplements with fulvic acid levels around 15–25% have shown measurable benefits related to fatigue reduction, cognitive function, and improved lipid profiles. Claims supporting formulations exceeding 70% largely lack clinical backing—and may present unnecessary risks.
Is shilajit with higher fulvic acid harmful?
Shilajit with very high fulvic acid isn’t always better—and it can sometimes be risky. Some companies try to raise the fulvic acid percentage by using cheap methods that isolate it from the rest of the natural mix. This can remove important minerals and make the product unbalanced. Worse, poor processing might leave behind harmful stuff like solvents or heavy metals. That’s why it’s important to choose shilajit that’s lab-tested and purified for safety.
How to choose the right shilajit product with moderate amount of shilajit?
When buying shilajit, don’t focus only on fulvic acid percentages. Look for the source origin, Himalayan (especially chitral areas) and Siberian sources are most trusted. Check if the product is third-party lab tested for purity and heavy metals. Opt for traditional resin form instead of powders or capsules that are often overly processed. A fulvic acid content between 15–40% is generally ideal—it’s high enough to be effective, but low enough to maintain the full nutrient profile and safety.
Comparison table: High vs moderate fulvic acid products
| Feature | High FA (70–90%) | Moderate FA (20–40%) |
| Likely source | Isolated extract | Whole shilajit resin |
| Synergistic minerals | Often reduced or missing | Better preserved |
| Authenticity | Often questionable | More traditional and natural |
| Health benefit | No added value beyond ~40% | Balanced and effective |
| Safety | Higher risk of residues/contaminants | Safer if purified and tested |
FAQs
Is higher fulvic acid always better in shilajit?
No. More is not always better. Extremely high levels may indicate it’s been artificially extracted, not natural.
What’s the ideal fulvic acid percentage in shilajit?
Typically, 15–40% is considered ideal in natural resin form. It allows for balance with other nutrients.
Can high fulvic acid content cause side effects?
Yes, if poorly processed. It may contain harmful residues like heavy metals or solvents.
Does pure fulvic acid work the same as shilajit?
Not quite. Shilajit works best when all its components are intact and working together.
How do I know if a shilajit product is safe?
Check if it’s lab-tested, resin-based, sourced from known regions like the Himalayas, and doesn’t just boast high % claims.
