Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

August 2022

Shatavari is one of the most well-known herbs used by Ayurvedic practitioners worldwide. This herb is rich in nutrients like iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, sodium, copper, and manganese.

It has been traditionally used to treat a wide range of conditions including menstrual disorders, menopause symptoms, infertility, poor digestion, heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, and many more. It also helps to boost your immune system.

These minerals help in building strong bones, muscles, blood vessels, heart, and nerves. Shatavari is also considered a rejuvenating agent because it contains high levels of antioxidants such as flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanin, polyphenols, saponins, alkaloids, triterpenes, and sterols.

Shatavari is used in several ways. Some people use it as a tonic while others consume it in tea form.

There are different dosages mentioned in ayurvedic texts. Generally speaking, 5 grams per day is enough for adults. However, you must consult your doctor before taking Shatavari supplements.

Health benefits of Shatavari

Shatavari is an ayurvedic herb that has been used traditionally for thousands of years to treat many conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, and even HIV/AIDS. Recently, researchers found that it might have some positive effects on memory too. A recent study published in the journal Phytomedicine showed that Shatavari improved cognitive function in mice. Researchers believe that the active compounds in Shatavari are responsible for improving memory.

Shatavari powder is one of the most popular Ayurvedic herbs used for treating many health problems. It is believed to help women deal with menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, depression, and anxiety. In addition, it is considered to improve sexual function, increase energy levels and boost immunity.

There are numerous scientific studies supporting the use of Shatavari for improving blood circulation, reducing cholesterol levels, relieving constipation, controlling diabetes, curing skin diseases, and even preventing cancer. Here we take a look at some of the benefits of Shatavari.

1) Improves Blood Circulation:

The antioxidant properties of Shatavari make it beneficial for cardiovascular health. The phytoestrogens present in this herb can reduce bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol. They also protect against free radicals which cause damage to cells and DNA.

2) Reduces Cholesterol Levels:

A study conducted in India showed that Shatavari reduces total cholesterol and triglycerides in patients suffering from hypercholesterolemia. Another study carried out in Iran showed that Shatavari improves lipid profile in diabetic patients.

3) Relieves Constipation:

Constipation is a common problem among older people. Many over-the-counter medications are available but they may not be effective or safe for long-term use. Shatavari helps relieve constipation naturally without causing any side effects.

4) Boosts Immunity:

Shatavari increases the production of white blood cells and strengthens the immune system. It is often recommended for those who suffer from colds and flu.

5) Promotes Healthy Skin:

Shatavari is very useful for treating various types of skin disorders. It helps clear acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and other skin infections. This herb is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and essential fatty acids. These nutrients keep the skin healthy by protecting it from harmful UV rays.

6) Prevents Cancer:

According to research, Shatavari prevents breast cancer cell growth and metastasis. It also protects against colon cancer. Other studies show that Shatavari is effective in killing leukemia cells.

7) Treats Menopause Symptoms:

Menopause is a natural process experienced by women after childbirth. During this time, their ovaries stop producing estrogen hormones resulting in a number of unpleasant symptoms. However, using Shatavari regularly can prevent these symptoms.

8) Helps Control Diabetes:

Diabetes is caused when your body does not produce enough insulin or cannot properly utilize the insulin produced. Insulin controls sugar levels in the blood. Shatavari contains saponins which lower glucose levels and regulate insulin secretion.

9) Increases Energy Level:

Many people find themselves feeling tired and exhausted throughout the day. Lack of sleep causes stress and affects our ability to concentrate. Using Shatavari regularly will help you get more restful sleep every night. It is especially helpful before bedtime.

10) Good For Weight Loss:

Weight gain is one of the most common problems faced by many adults today. Regular consumption of Shatavari helps control weight and keeps your metabolism high.

11) Improves Digestion:

Digestive issues such as constipation, bloating, heartburn, gas, and indigestion are quite common. Shatavari has been found to improve digestion and help treat digestive disorders like IBS.

12) Protects Against Heart Disease:

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Shatavari lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels and protects against cardiovascular diseases.

13) Reduces Blood Pressure:

High blood pressure is another major health concern. The active ingredient in Shatavari, Asparagarin, relaxes muscles in the walls of arteries and veins. This reduces blood pressure and improves circulation.

Medicinal uses

Shatavari is used to treat impotence, premature ejaculation, infertility, low sperm count, enlarged prostate, leucorrhea, menopause, menstrual disorders, uterine prolapse, vaginismus, urinary tract infections, stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, memory loss, skin diseases, hair fall, cough, cold, fever, asthma, bronchitis, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, constipation, diarrhea, piles, jaundice, eye problems, earache, headache, toothaches etc.

It has been used traditionally to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, PMS symptoms, menstrual cramps, and menopause. In Ayurveda, Shatavari is considered one of the best herbs for balancing hormones.

According to the World Health Organization, Shatavari has been proven to help regulate hormones and improve hormonal balance. Studies suggest that Shatavari supports healthy thyroid function, reduces symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, alleviates the symptoms of the perimenopausal syndrome, and improves sleep quality.

In addition, studies show that Shatavari helps relieve stress and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Shatavari extract had anxiolytic effects in mice. Another study showed that Shatavari could lower blood pressure in rats.

Side effects of Shatavari

Shatavari is used for treating gynecological disorders like menstrual irregularities, fibroids, etc. It is also used to treat infertility problems. However, there are few studies regarding the safety of Shatavari. In fact, it is recommended that people avoid Shatavari if they are taking medications or herbs to control their blood glucose levels.