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Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Liliaceae (sometimes classified under Asparagaceae)
  • Common Names: Shatavari, Wild Asparagus, Hundred Roots
  • Parts Used: Root, occasionally aerial parts

Description

Asparagus racemosus is a climbing perennial native to India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Africa. It has been a cornerstone herb in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, revered for its adaptogenic, rejuvenating, and hormone-balancing properties. It is particularly known as a female reproductive tonic but also supports digestion, immunity, and overall vitality.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Ayurveda as a rasayana (rejuvenating) herb to promote longevity and vitality.
  • Traditionally employed to support female reproductive health, particularly for fertility, lactation, and menopausal symptoms.
  • Applied in digestive disorders to soothe irritation and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Constituents

  • Saponins (Shatavarins)
  • Alkaloids
  • Flavonoids
  • Mucilage
  • Polysaccharides

Actions

  • Adaptogenic
  • Reproductive tonic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Immunomodulatory
  • Demulcent
  • Galactagogue (supports milk production)
  • Aphrodisiac

Medicinal Uses

1. Female Reproductive Health:
Shatavari is widely used to balance hormones, support menstrual cycles, enhance fertility, and ease menopausal symptoms.

2. Digestive Support:
The mucilaginous nature of the root soothes ulcers, acidity, and inflammation in the digestive tract.

3. Immune and Nervous System Support:
Traditionally used as an adaptogen to strengthen immunity and help the body adapt to stress.

4. Lactation and Postpartum Support:
Acts as a galactagogue, increasing milk supply in breastfeeding mothers.

5. Male Reproductive Health:
Although known for female health, it also supports male fertility and libido by nourishing the reproductive tissues.

Preparation and Dosage

Powder:

  • ¼ to ½ tsp of dried root powder mixed with warm milk or honey, taken up to 2 times daily.

Decoction:

  • Simmer 1-2 tsp of dried root in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes. Drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Capsules:

  • Typically taken in doses of 500-1000 mg per day, depending on individual needs.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe and beneficial, but consult a healthcare provider for individual cases.
  • Estrogenic Effects: Those with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult a practitioner before use.
  • Mild Diuretic Action: May increase urination slightly.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Ayurvedic Medicine: Cooling and nourishing; balances Pitta and Vata, increases Kapha when overused.

Combinations

  • For Female Reproductive Health: Combine with ashwagandha and vitex.
  • For Digestive Soothing: Combine with licorice and marshmallow root.
  • For Nervous System Support: Combine with gotu kola and brahmi.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Roots are harvested in autumn after the plant has matured.
  • Drying: Dried in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried root in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Scientific studies support Asparagus racemosus’s role in hormone balance, immune modulation, and stress adaptation, confirming its traditional uses in Ayurveda.

Shatavari remains a highly valued herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for female reproductive health, digestion, and adaptogenic support.