Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Cistanche (Cistanche tubulosa) | Shilajit | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Adaptogens | Adaptogens |
| Standard Dose | — | 250-500mg purified shilajit daily (standardized to >50% fulvic acid) |
| Timing | — | Morning with warm water or milk (traditional Ayurvedic method). Can be split AM/PM. |
| Cycle Duration | — | Cycle 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off |
| Evidence Level | Moderate (preclinical strong, human emerging) | moderate_human |
Desert plant extract containing echinacoside and acteoside that support testosterone via LH stimulation, enhance neurogenesis via BDNF upregulation, and improve gut microbiome composition. Traditional use as 'desert ginseng' for vitality and cognition.
Shilajit is a mineral-rich exudate containing fulvic acid (60-80%), dibenzo-alpha-pyrones (DBPs), and over 85 minerals in ionic form. Fulvic acid acts as an electron shuttle in mitochondrial electron transport, enhancing CoQ10 function and ATP production. DBPs protect CoQ10 from oxidation, extending its functional half-life. Shilajit increases total and free testosterone by stimulating steroidogenesis and reducing SHBG. It also enhances mitochondrial membrane potential, acts as a potent antioxidant (fulvic acid neutralizes free radicals), and improves mineral absorption by forming bioavailable fulvic acid-mineral complexes.
250-500mg purified shilajit daily (standardized to >50% fulvic acid)
Morning with warm water or milk (traditional Ayurvedic method). Can be split AM/PM.
Cycle 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off
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