Ayurveda and Science

Shatavari/शतावरी/Asparagus Racemosus/Asparagus

AYURVEDIC & MEDICINAL PLANTS

Shatavari
Hindi Name: Shatavari
Sanskrit Name: Shatavari
English Name: Asparagus
Latin Name: Asparagus racemosus Willd
A prickly prsotrate undershrub growing wild as well as cultivated in warmer regions of the country. Fleshy tuberous roots of the plant are used in the preparations of traditional health care products.

Shatavari Benefits & Uses

Shatawari is a well-recognized herb for its action as a nutritive tonic. Its use is specifically recommended to enhance lactation in nursing mothers. The marked increase in lactation by Shatavari has been scientifically proven today. Technically termed as galactogogue this effect is attributed to its action on the prolaction hormone level. Besides, it is recommended by Indian Ayurveda to improve physical stamina and immunity. Role of Shatavari in enhancing immunity functions has also been proven scientifically.

There are numerous Asparagus or Shatavari benefits and uses as follows:

  • Reduces Cholesterol

    Shatavari root powder has various compounds like saponins, flavonoids and ascorbic acid which increases the excretion of cholesterol. Asparagus Racemosus helps reduce bad cholesterol and promotes the generation of good cholesterol which helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

  • Diuretic

    Shatavari is Diuretic in nature which means that regular consumption of asparagus can help improve the volume and frequency of urination.

  • Treats Diarrhea

    Shatavari is an age-old remedy to treat diarrhea.

  • Aids Digestion

    One of the Shatavari benefits include enhancing digestion. Asparagus improves digestion by increasing the activity of digestive enzymes lipase and amylase. Lipase aids fat digestion whereas amylase helps with the digestion of carbohydrates.

  • Treats Kidney Stones

    Owing to Shatavari's diuretic properties, it can prove useful in relieving kidney stones. Also, Asparagus Racemosus is anti-urolithiasis which hastens the process of dissolving stones and stops the process of new stones formation.

  • Boosts Immunity

    Shatavari roots contains Sapogenin which is a potent agent for stimulating immune cells. Asparagus Racemosus helps in improving body's resistance against disease-causing agents. Sapogenins also stimulate the cells that fight infection by overpowering the infection causing cells.

  • Female Reproductive System

    Shatavari's main components are saponins that help regulate estrogen. This modulation helps to control menstrual cycles, manage PMS symptoms, ease menstrual cramps and control the amount of blood loss.

Chemical Composition

Roots contain saponins, mucilage and large amount of sugars.

Effect on
Doshas

Pacifies pitta and vata.
Read more about various ailments, it's causes, symptoms, ayurvedic treatments, etc.

Explore More

Know the story behind other medicinal Ayurvedic ingredients

Ulatkambal

Abroma augusta, or Devil"s Cotton, is an evergreen tree native from Asia to Australia. They will reach 10 feet (2.5 m) in height with very little spread. The leaves will reach 8 inches (20 cm) across and are 3-5 lobed with very distinct palmate veins.

Yavasa

Camel thorn is a noxious green shrub to 1 (2) m tall, with simple leaves, many thorny branches, and an extensive root system. Plants spread rapidly by clonal vegetative reproduction from vigorous rhizomes.

Akarkara

This perennial plant, in habit and appearance like the chamomile, has stems that lie on the ground for part of their length, before rising erect. Each bears one large flower, the disk being yellow and the rays white, tinged with purple beneath. The leaves

Ashwagandha

A small perennial shrub with white flowers and orange red berry found in warmer regions of India. Today the herb is completely domesticated and is cultivated extensively in central and western India. The roots are used in the preparation of various formul

Bael

A spinous deciduous aromatic tree with trifoliate leaves and greenish-white flowers. It is commonly found in dry hilly areas of the country. Tree is also planted as an aveue tree near temples and in gardens. Fruit as well as bark of the tree are utilized