I've been using shilajit for about two years now, and when I first started looking into it, I was shocked at how much the prices varied. Like, we're talking about a 30-gram jar going for anywhere from $50 to $200. What gives?
After doing way too much research and trying different brands, I figured I'd share what I've learned about shilajit pricing in Canada. Spoiler alert: it's complicated.
The Reality Check on Canadian Shilajit Prices
Here's the deal - most decent shilajit in Canada will run you between $60 and $120 for about 15-30 grams. I know that sounds like a huge range, but there's actually good reasons for it.
The cheap stuff under $50? I tried a couple of those when I was starting out. Big mistake. One tasted like dirt (and not in a good, earthy way), and another gave me stomach issues. You really do get what you pay for with this stuff.
Why Some Shilajit Costs Way More Than Others
It's All About Where It Comes From
The expensive shilajit usually comes from places like the Himalayas or Altai mountains. Getting this stuff out of remote mountain locations isn't exactly easy or cheap. My current go-to brand sources theirs from around 16,000 feet in the Himalayas, and honestly, you can taste the difference.
The cheaper options often come from lower altitudes or are processed differently. Not saying they're bad, but they're definitely not the same thing.
How They Process It Matters
Traditional processing takes forever. They literally dry this stuff in the sun for months and purify it with mountain spring water. It's time-consuming and labor-intensive, which obviously costs more.
Some companies use machines and chemicals to speed things up. It's cheaper, but you're not getting the same product. I learned this the hard way when I bought what I thought was a "great deal" online.
When I was researching different options, I found this helpful guide about the best shilajit brands in Canada that really broke down the quality differences between brands. Worth checking out if you're trying to figure out what's actually worth the money.
What You'll Pay for Different Types
Resin (The Sticky Stuff)
This is what most people buy, and it's what I prefer. You're looking at:
Budget brands: Around $50-70
Middle-of-the-road: $70-100
Premium stuff: $100-150
Powder
About 20% cheaper than resin, but honestly? I don't like it as much. It doesn't dissolve as well and tastes weird to me. Usually runs $40-120.
Capsules
Most expensive because of all the extra processing. Plus, I have no idea what else they're putting in there. Usually $60-180, but I'd rather just deal with the resin.
Regional Differences (Yeah, They're Real)
Living in Toronto, I've noticed prices are pretty competitive here. Lots of options, lots of competition.
My buddy in Calgary says he pays a bit more, but he's got fewer local options. My cousin in Halifax complains about shipping costs eating into any deals she finds online.
If you're in a smaller city, you're probably looking at online ordering anyway, so the regional thing matters less.
Seasonal Weirdness
This was something I didn't expect - prices actually change throughout the year. Winter months, especially around flu season, prices go up because everyone's trying to boost their immune system. I usually stock up in summer when things are cheaper.
My Hard-Learned Shopping Tips
Do the Math
Always figure out the price per gram. I fell for the "bigger jar must be better value" trap more than once. Sometimes the smaller containers are actually cheaper per gram.
Don't Chase Rock-Bottom Prices
Anything under $40 for a decent amount is probably fake or low quality. I wasted money on three different "amazing deals" before I learned this lesson.
Check for Testing
Good brands will show you lab results. If they won't, keep looking. I don't mess around with supplements that could be contaminated.
Read the Fine Print
Some brands list their weight including the jar. Sneaky, but it happens.
Should You Order from Overseas?
I thought about this when I was trying to save money. Here's why I don't:
Customs fees add up quick
Takes forever to arrive
If it's fake or bad, you're stuck with it
Some packages get held up or lost
Better to pay a bit more and buy from a Canadian distributor who stands behind their product.
What I Think Is Coming
The market's getting more competitive, which is good for us. I've noticed more brands popping up, and prices for mid-range stuff are starting to come down a bit.
The premium brands will probably stay expensive because, well, premium is premium. But we should see more good options in that $60-90 range.
Bottom Line
Look, shilajit isn't cheap, but it doesn't have to break the bank either. I spend about $80 every couple months, and for me, that's worth it for how much better I feel.
Don't go for the cheapest option - I learned that lesson the expensive way. But you also don't need to buy the most expensive jar to get good quality. Find something in the middle that's properly tested and sourced, and you'll probably be happy with it.
The most important thing? Buy from someone who can tell you exactly where their shilajit comes from and how it's processed. If they can't or won't, keep looking. Your health is worth the extra research.
