Chemical Analysis of Native Himalayan Shilajit: An Evaluation of an Ayurvedic Formulation

Background: Shilajit, a naturally occurring mineral-rich organic compound, has been widely used in traditional medicine for its adaptogenic and therapeutic properties. This study focuses on the chemical characterization and pharmacological potential of a native Himalayan Shilajit formulation obtained from a monk who uses for healing purposes since five decades. Methods: A multitechnique analytical approach was employed, including microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) for elemental and structural analysis. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was utilized to identify bioactive organic constituents. Results: The physicochemical assessment confirmed a slightly alkaline pH (8.11) and a rich mineral composition, with potassium (21.93 ppm), calcium (11.04 ppm), and magnesium as predominant elements. Structural analysis revealed a heterogeneous organic-inorganic matrix with bioavailable minerals. GC-MS analysis identified fulvic acid, dibenzo-α-pyrones, and phenolic compounds, confirming antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Conclusion: This study presents a detailed chemical profile of a native Himalayan Shilajit specimen. The chemical composition suggests putative antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that are hypothesis-generating and require direct validation for targeted in vitro and in vivo assays before therapeutic claims can be made. The findings describe the importance of standardized analytical methods for quality control and highlight their potential relevance in pain management and anti-inflammatory therapies. This work presents a detailed case study of a rare, traditionally collected Shilajit from Ganeshpur, Uttarkashi, aimed at establishing a rigorous compositional baseline/reference for future regional and comparative studies.