What does Shilajit Taste Like?

By now, you have probably heard about Shilajit and all its benefits, and you probably want to try it. But what does it taste like? This is definitely a valid question. After all, if you can't stand the taste of the supplement, then how would you take it, right? And if you don't take it, you won't gain the benefits. 

Read on to find out how Shilajit tastes, why it tastes like so, whether different forms of Shilajit taste the same, if you can make it taste better, and more.

What Exactly Is Shilajit?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it is important first to understand what shilajit really is, how it is formed, and where it comes from.

Shilajit is a natural substance that looks a bit like tar. It forms over centuries in high mountain ranges, like the Himalayas, Altai, and Caucasus Mountains. The process that creates Shilajit is pretty amazing.

Imagine plants, herbs, and other organic materials getting trapped between rocks and soil, then being slowly broken down over thousands of years by the pressure of the mountains and the heat of the sun.

Over time, this organic matter transforms into a sticky, mineral-rich substance, which we now know as Shilajit. This slow, natural process is what gives Shilajit its powerful properties.

Because it takes thousands of years to form, Shilajit is packed with nutrients, minerals, and other compounds thought to boost health. This includes fulvic acid, one of the key ingredients that makes it so valuable in traditional medicine. Fulvic acid is believed to help the body absorb minerals better and boost energy levels.

Note that Shilajit is a completely natural product. This means it is not made in a lab or factory. Rather, it is carefully collected from the mountains where it forms.

After it is harvested, it is purified to remove impurities like dirt or rocks, leaving behind the concentrated, nutrient-rich substance, which you can buy and use as a supplement.

What does Shilajit Taste Like?

It is natural to wonder what a substance that has been formed in the mountains over so many years tastes like. Well, as you probably thought, Shilajit’s taste is unique and varied. 

Some people describe it as earthy, others say it is bitter, and others think it is spicy. All of these may be true, and here is why;

Earthy

When you think of something earthy, imagine how soil or damp earth smells after it rains. Shilajit has a similar flavour. This earthy taste comes from the minerals and natural compounds packed into it after spending so much time in the mountains.

However, this is not exactly like eating dirt. It is rather more of a deep, grounded taste that reflects Shilajit’s origins in the mountains. The rich, mineral-like flavour can be surprising at first, but it reminds us that Shilajit is a natural substance shaped by the earth over centuries.

Bitter

Have you ever tasted dark chocolate, black coffee, or certain leafy greens? Well, Shilajit may have a similar flavour, maybe even stronger, and that is why some people describe it as bitter. This bitterness comes from the high concentration of minerals and plant compounds.

Spicy 

When you hear people say shilajit is spicy, it doesn't mean the kind of heat you would get from chilli peppers. They just refer to some kind of warmth that comes through in different ways.

This may be a smoky aftertaste, which might come from how Shilajit is processed, as it is often purified through heat. The smoky element is not overpowering, but it adds some depth to the overall taste, making it feel richer and more intricate.

It may also be salty, which comes from the high mineral content in Shilajit. As you already know, shilajit is packed with various minerals including iron, magnesium, and calcium, which may give it a slightly salty flavour you may notice when you taste it.

Why Shilajit Taste Like This

Shilajit’s taste comes from its rich mineral content. The earthy and bitter notes are largely due to the presence of fulvic and humic acids, which are known for their strong flavours.

These acids are what give Shilajit its health-boosting properties, so while the taste might put some people off, it is a sign that you are getting legit Shilajit and all the beneficial compounds.

The smoky flavour can come from the methods used to purify it, which often involve heat.

Can You Make Shilajit Taste Better? 

Some people love the natural taste of shilajit. For them, the taste is a reflection of its connection to the earth. It is an indication of high quality and a part of what makes Shilajit feel so pure.

However, if you don't like it, or if it is making it difficult to take the supplement, there are various ways to dissolve shilajit’s natural taste or mask it and make it better for you;

Mix it with honey – Honey is sweet and can help make Shilajit’s bitterness easier to handle.

Stir it into tea or coffee – If you like tea or coffee, try adding Shilajit to your cup. The flavours of tea or coffee can cover up the earthy taste of Shilajit, making it easier to drink.

Blend it into smoothies – Adding Shilajit to a smoothie with fruits and veggies can completely hide the taste. The sweetness from the fruits helps to mask the bitterness.

Take it with warm water and lemon – Dissolve Shilajit in warm water and add some lemon juice. The lemon’s sourness can help reduce the bitter flavour.

Mix it with milk – Warm milk can soften the taste of Shilajit, making it much more pleasant to drink. It also gives you a nice, soothing feeling.

Try it with yogurt – Stirring Shilajit into plain or flavored yogurt can help disguise its taste. The creamy texture of yogurt can make it easier to eat.

How Shilajit Taste in Different Forms

Shilajit is available in various forms, including resin, powder, and capsules, which may all have different tastes.

Shilajit Resin

Shilajit resin is considered the purest form of Shilajit. It is a thick, sticky substance that looks almost like tar. This is how Shilajit naturally occurs before it is processed into other forms like powder and capsules.

Since it is the least processed version, it contains the highest concentration of nutrients and minerals, making it the most effective form. It is also stronger than other forms and has that deep, earthy and bitter flavours.

Shilajit Powder

The powdered form is slightly less intense than the resin but still retains much of its natural flavours and goodness. The taste is slightly milder because the powder is more processed.

It is simply made by drying and grinding Shilajit into fine powder, which also makes it easier to mix into drinks or food. It dissolves more easily than resin, making the taste more manageable, especially if combined with stronger flavours.

Shilajit Capsules 

Shilajit capsules are another form of shilajit you can opt for. These are especially convenient because they are easy to carry and take. Just like any other supplement, all you have to do is take them with water, and you are good to go.

They are the best option for people who don't want to taste the Shilajit flavour at all, as the capsules completely hide the taste. However, some people feel that capsules may not be as effective as resin or powder, as some may contain added fillers or other ingredients.

If you want pure Shilajit, it is important to always check the label to see the ingredients. Otherwise, capsules are definitely a hassle-free way to take Shilajit without worrying about the taste and still get its benefits.

Getting Started with Shilajit 

If you are committed to taking Shilajit but find it difficult at first, there are ways to adjust over time. Begin by taking a small amount and increasing the dosage slowly to help your taste buds get used to it.

Stay consistent and pair it with something you enjoy. The more you take it, the more your body will become accustomed to it, and within just a short time, you will find it easier to handle. You can mix it with honey, tea, or juice to make it enjoyable.

Most importantly, choose the right form. This could be Shilajit resin, powder, or capsules. Do your research and find out which one will be the most suitable for you. You can ask the manufacturer or a healthcare specialist for recommendations. 

Lastly, pay attention to how your body responds to Shilajit. It is not always about the taste. If you notice any changes or effects, adjust the dosage as needed. If you experience any adverse reactions, consult a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Shilajit Taste Like It Smells? 

Shilajit has a strong smell that often matches its taste. It smells earthy and a bit like smoke or tar. If you are not used to strong smells, it might take a while to get used to this scent, but after you use it regularly, the smell and taste usually become more familiar and less overwhelming.

Should I Avoid Shilajit Because of Its Taste?

Shilajit’s taste might be very strong, especially at first, when you are just getting started. However, the health benefits make it worth it. And, there are many ways to cover up the taste, so you can still enjoy Shilajit without it being a problem.

Is There a Tastier Option?

You can always make shilajit better by taking it with other flavours to mask its taste. For example, you can take it with coffee or tea. If this is still too much for you and you don't want to deal with it, you can consider other supplements with the same benefits but better tastes.

However, note that shilajit is unique, and these other supplements may also have their own flavours, which you may or may not like.

What Do People Say About Shilajit’s Taste?

Everyone’s taste buds are different, so opinions on Shilajit’s flavour can vary widely. However, generally, many people agree that while the taste is strong, it is something they can manage, especially with the health benefits in mind. 

Other people find it too strong and unpleasant and never quite get used to its taste. Some people prefer to take it in capsule form to avoid the flavour altogether.

How Long Does It Take to Get Used to Shilajit?

Most people take a few days to weeks to get used to Shilajit’s taste. If you are completely new to it, it is recommended to start small with smaller doses and gradually increase the dose. This helps make the taste more manageable over time.

Can Shilajit Be Taken With Food?

Yes, you can take Shilajit with food to help cover up its strong taste. For example, you can stir it into a bowl of yoghurt or blend it into a smoothie with fruits. This can hide the strong flavour and make it more pleasant to drink. Adding a little honey can also sweeten it and help reduce its bitterness.

Final Wrap

Different people find Shilajit taste different. As mentioned in the article, some find it earthy, others bitter, and others smokey or salty. Everyone’s taste is different, so what might be strong for one person might be okay for another.

Although the taste might be difficult to get used to at first, the Shilajit Benefits make it worth it. You can make it taste better by mixing it with tea, coffee, or smoothies. If it is still too strong for you, start with a small amount or use capsules to avoid the flavour completely.

Note that Shilajit’s taste is part of what it is. Finding a way to take it that you like can help you enjoy its benefits. If you find that it is ultimately not for you, consider switching to other supplements that may be easier for you.