Fadogia Agrestis vs Shilajit

Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.

Fadogia AgrestisShilajit
CategoryAdaptogensAdaptogens
Standard Dose400-600mg daily250-500mg purified shilajit daily (standardized to >50% fulvic acid)
TimingMorning with food.Morning with warm water or milk (traditional Ayurvedic method). Can be split AM/PM.
Cycle DurationCycle 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off (limited long-term safety data)Cycle 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off
Evidence Levelanimal_plus_anecdotalmoderate_human
A

Fadogia Agrestis

Adaptogens

Mechanism

Fadogia agrestis stem extract contains saponins and alkaloids that appear to increase luteinizing hormone (LH) release from the anterior pituitary, stimulating Leydig cell testosterone production. Animal studies suggest it may also have direct effects on testicular steroidogenic enzymes and may increase testicular weight. The saponin content may modulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse frequency. The aphrodisiac effects are likely mediated through increased testosterone and possibly direct effects on dopaminergic and nitrergic pathways.

Standard Dosing

400-600mg daily

Timing

Morning with food.

Cycle Duration

Cycle 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off (limited long-term safety data)

Side Effects

  • Limited human safety data
  • Testicular toxicity at high doses in animal studies
  • Potential liver stress
  • GI discomfort
  • Insomnia

Contraindications

  • Hormone-sensitive cancers
  • Testicular pathology
  • Pregnancy/lactation
  • Children/adolescents
  • Liver disease

Best Stacking Partners

Tongkat AliAshwagandhaBoronZinc
B

Shilajit

Adaptogens

Mechanism

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.

Standard Dosing

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

Side Effects

  • GI discomfort
  • Dizziness
  • Increased heart rate (rare)
  • Allergic reaction (rare)
  • Metallic taste

Contraindications

  • Hemochromatosis (iron content)
  • Active gout (may increase uric acid)
  • Sickle cell disease
  • Thalassemia

Best Stacking Partners

CoQ10 (synergistic mitochondrial support)AshwagandhaTongkat AliMagnesium

Not sure which is right for you?

Take our free assessment to get personalized recommendations based on your health goals, current stack, and biomarkers.

Get Your Free Protocol →or take the assessment →