Shilajit Purity Tests Explained
Hello dai-bahini, I am from Namche Bazaar and now I bring the resin to friends in Australia. I write like I would talk over chai - simple, honest. Here I explain shilajit purity tests you can do at home, and what only a lab can tell you. No fancy words, just mountain sense and a little science.
What we mean by shilajit purity and authenticity
Purity means the resin is real Himalayan shilajit, not mixed with fillers, oils, or fake powders, and that it is free from dangerous heavy metals or contaminants. Authentic shilajit is a sticky, dark-brown to black resin that has been collected, purified using traditional methods, and dried properly.
Simple shilajit purity tests you can try
These are home-friendly checks from the mountains - they do not replace lab testing but will help you spot obvious fakes.
- Look and feel - Real resin is glossy and sticky, not a dry crumbly powder. It should hold together when you take a small pea-sized amount between your fingers.
- Warmth test - Pure shilajit softens when gently warmed by your hand, becoming more pliable, not oily or runny. If it melts to an oil, it's likely adulterated.
- Solubility test - Stir a small amount in warm water. Real resin will dissolve to a dark, homogeneous solution with minimal residue. If you see oily droplets or lots of insoluble bits, be careful.
- Aroma and taste - A gentle earthy, mineral smell and a strong bitter-salty taste are common. If it smells strongly of chemicals or sweet fragrances, that is suspicious.
- Stretch or thread test - High-quality resin can be warmed and stretched into a thin thread without breaking into powder immediately. This is a subtle test but helpful for comparison.
- Residue check - After dissolving, pour the liquid through a fine cloth. Excessive sediment or foreign particles can indicate impurities or fillers.
Remember - these checks are practical signs from the village, not definitive lab proof. If you feel unsure, always ask for a lab report.
Lab testing - what to ask for
When you need certainty, lab tests tell the true story. Reliable reports include:
- Heavy metals screening (ICP-MS) - lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic levels.
- Fulvic and humic acid content - markers of genuine resin quality.
- Microbial tests - to ensure no harmful bacteria or molds.
- Pesticide and solvent residue checks.
I know a bit about this because our villagers use old purification ways and we also send batches for modern checks. If you want to read our reports and how we test every batch, visit shilnepal.com - it is our promise from Namche to your home.
Buying and storage tips
Buy small tins, so you use it fresh. I pack our resin fresh into 30 g tins and sun-dry between traditional steps. If you want to try the same tin I send, see the product here: Nepalese Shilajit Resin 30g tin. Keep resin in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and strong heat.
FAQ - common questions about shilajit purity tests
Q: Can I trust home shilajit purity tests?
A: Home tests help spot obvious fakes - look, feel, and dissolve tests. But only lab testing confirms heavy metals and fulvic acid. Use both village sense and certificates.
Q: How does pure resin behave in water?
A: Pure resin usually dissolves into a dark, uniform solution in warm water with little residue. If you see oil separate or a lot of undissolved bits, that is a warning sign.
Q: Are heavy metals always a problem?
A: Not always, but they can be present if collection or processing was careless. Ask for an ICP-MS or heavy metal report. Good suppliers test every batch to protect customers.
Q: Where can I see test reports for a brand?
A: Honest suppliers post or share lab reports on request. I keep reports and village notes online at shilnepal.com so customers can see the proof.