How to identify Original Shilajit

Identifying original shilajit can be challenging due to the presence of many imitations in the market. Here are some methods to help you determine if the shilajit you have is authentic:

Physical Characteristics

1. Appearance: Pure shilajit is usually a dark brown to blackish-brown, tar-like substance.
2. Texture: At room temperature, it should be sticky and resinous. When refrigerated, it becomes hard and brittle.
3. Taste: Genuine shilajit has a bitter taste with a slight earthy or mineral aftertaste.

Solubility Test

1. Water Solubility: Original shilajit dissolves completely in warm water, leaving no residue. It should mix evenly, turning the water a golden or reddish color.
2. Flame Test: When burned, authentic shilajit will bubble and produce an ash-like residue. It will not burn like a typical substance, indicating its resinous nature.

Purity Tests

1. Alkali Test: Mix shilajit with an alkaline substance (like baking soda) and add water. Authentic shilajit should dissolve completely without any sediment.
2. Solubility in Alcohol: Pure shilajit does not dissolve completely in alcohol, whereas adulterated versions might.

Additional Checks

1. Smell: Genuine shilajit has a distinctive, strong, and somewhat unpleasant smell, often described as earthy or bituminous.
2. Origin and Certification: Purchase shilajit from reputable sources that provide information about its origin. Look for certifications or lab tests verifying its authenticity and purity.

Chemical and Laboratory Tests

1. Lab Testing: The most reliable method is laboratory testing, which can identify the specific compounds found in authentic shilajit, such as fulvic acid and humic substances.

Trusted Sources

1. Reputable Brands: Buy from well-known brands or vendors who are known for selling genuine shilajit.
2. Certificate of Authenticity: Check if the product comes with a certificate of authenticity or quality assurance from a recognized laboratory.

Summary

• Appearance and Texture: Dark, sticky, tar-like at room temperature; hard and brittle when cold.
• Solubility: Dissolves completely in warm water, leaves no residue; does not dissolve fully in alcohol.
• Smell and Taste: Strong, earthy smell and bitter taste.
• Purchase Source: Buy from reputable vendors with proper certification.

Using these methods will help ensure that the shilajit you are purchasing or using is genuine and of high quality.