Modernization of Shilajit Processing: Comparative Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant Potential, and Phenolic Content in Standardized vs. Non- Standardized Extracts

Shilajit, an Ayurvedic medicinal substance, is recognized for its rich humic content and various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. This study involves a comparative evaluation of phytochemical composition, antioxidant potential, and total phenolic content in standardized and non-standardized Shilajit extracts. The standardized Shilajit was processed through a controlled workflow including extraction, filtration, distillation, and drying, aimed at reducing heavy metal contamination while preserving bioactive compounds. Methodologies employed included qualitative biochemical screening, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), UV-visible spectrophotometric analysis to determine the E4/E6 ratio, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for functional group identification, and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) to assess elemental composition and confirm the elimination of heavy metals. The E4/E6 ratio of standardized Shilajit ranged from 2.84 to 2.93, significantly lower than that of non-standardized Shilajit samples, indicating a higher concentration of aromatic components. Additionally, its IR analysis revealed distinct functional groups, whereas non-standardized samples lacked the humic acid band, while SEM-EDX confirmed the absence of heavy metals in all samples. Phytochemical screening indicates the abundance of different compounds, such as flavonoids, phytosterols, terpenoids, phenols, and coumarins, which were further validated by the HRMS study. The phytochemical richness is responsible for significantly higher antioxidant activity (via DPPH and phosphomolybdate assays) and phenolic content in Standardized Shilajit than non-standardized Shilajit samples. These results demonstrate that the standardized production process enhances the safety and therapeutic efficacy of shilajit, supporting its application in health and wellness.