Shilajit
Asphaltum punjabianum
A mineral-rich resin from the Himalayas, studied for its effects on total testosterone, mitochondrial energy, and male hormonal output.
The Ingredient Explained
Shilajit is a tar-like resin that seeps from cracks in Himalayan rock formations, formed over centuries from the compression of organic plant matter. It's one of the most studied substances in Ayurvedic medicine, but what makes it relevant here isn't tradition. It's the clinical evidence. Human trials have shown Shilajit supplementation increases total testosterone, supports luteinizing hormone, and improves markers of mitochondrial function. Foundation uses a purified extract at 500mg per serving, a dose above what most clinical studies used, delivering more of the active compound fulvic acid than the standard protocol.
Why it's in Foundation
Most testosterone support focuses on either production or availability. Shilajit works at the cellular level, improving how well mitochondria generate the energy that testosterone synthesis depends on. Without that energy substrate, even well-functioning signaling pathways underperform. Shilajit fills that gap. It also directly supports LH output, the hormone that tells the testes to produce testosterone in the first place. That makes it one of the few ingredients that works on both the signal and the system that responds to it.
Your 90-Day Timeline.
Foundation Sets In
Cellular energy may begin to improve. Some men notice better endurance during training and reduced fatigue in the first two weeks.
Momentum Builds
Mitochondrial support compounds. This is typically when the effects on energy and recovery become more noticeable day to day.
Full Protocol Effect
The 90-day clinical trial is the benchmark for Shilajit research. Sustained use at consistent doses is where the testosterone support data is strongest.
What the research shows
500mg. More than the clinical standard.
Human trials using 250mg to 500mg of Shilajit extract over 90 days produced statistically significant increases in total testosterone and FSH in men with below-optimal levels. Foundation uses 500mg per serving, the top end of the studied range, using a purified extract standardized for fulvic acid content.
View the human study
Testosterone and FSH response in men, published clinical trial
How it works with other ingredients
Tongkat Ali
Tongkat Ali focuses on freeing bound testosterone. Shilajit focuses on increasing total testosterone production. They work on different parts of the same problem, which is why both are in Foundation.
Ashwagandha (Shoden®)
Ashwagandha reduces the cortisol load that suppresses hormonal output. Shilajit supports the energy system that drives it. One clears the brake, the other fuels the engine.
Zinc
Zinc is the raw material testosterone synthesis requires. Shilajit amplifies the LH signaling that triggers that synthesis. Together they cover both the signal and the supply.