Shilajit is said to cure all the distempers of the body. Shilajit cracks out from mountains mostly due to the warmth of the Sun. Shilajit intaking increases the total sperm count. The sperm movement is increased adequately, better for fertility. Shilajit consumption slows down the process of ageing, contributes to overall longevity and overall better health.

Shilajit must not be confused with the humic substance ozokerite which is similar in appearance. Although Shilajit has many medicinal benefits, yet ozokerite apparently has not any. Shilajit has impurities along, but once purified, it appears to be a brown-black paste with a glossy surface, bitter taste and a peculiar smell.

It is not clear whether Shilajit has a geological origin or biological origin.