Shilajit, a natural resin known for its health benefits, needs to be pure to ensure its effectiveness. Here are five tests you can perform at home to check the purity of shilajit:
1. Solubility Test Procedure:
Dissolve a small piece of shilajit in warm water.
Observation: Pure shilajit will dissolve completely, leaving no residue, and the solution should appear golden or dark brown.
2. Burn Test Procedure:
Take a small amount of shilajit and burn it with a flame.
Observation: Pure shilajit will burn without producing smoke and will leave behind minimal ash. If it produces a lot of smoke or residue, it may be impure.
3. Pliability Test Procedure:
Place shilajit in the refrigerator for a few hours and then try to shape it.
Observation: Pure shilajit will become hard and brittle when cold but will soften and become sticky when warmed by hand.
4. Colour Test Procedure:
Observe the colour of shilajit in natural light.
Observation: Pure shilajit typically has a dark brown to black colour. Variations in colour might indicate impurities.
5. Acid Test Procedure:
Mix shilajit with vinegar or another weak acid.
Observation: Pure shilajit will dissolve and not react violently. If it fizzes or shows a strong reaction, it may contain impurities or additives.
Conclusion
Performing these simple tests can help you determine the purity of shilajit, ensuring you consume a product that is both safe and effective. Pure shilajit will dissolve completely in water, burn cleanly, be pliable, have a consistent dark color, and show no strong reaction with weak acids.