Shatavari is an important herb within the Ayurvedic medical system of India. This plant is considered to belong to the group of Ayurvedic herbs called "rasayanas," which act as general rejuvenating tonics. A native of India, shatavari is in the same botanical group as common asparagus, as noted in the "Indian Journal of Medical Sciences." The plant, a woody climbing shrub, flourishes in tropical and subtropical regions. Use shatavari under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Traditional Uses of Shatavari
According to the Chopra Center, shatavari possesses nourishing and cooling qualities that are employed in the treatment of indigestion, diarrhea, urinary tract inflammation and heartburn. It is traditionally used to calm inflammations and as a restorative tonic. For centuries shatavari has been prescribed to increase lactation in nursing mothers as well as for hot flashes and premenstrual symptoms as well as to increase fertility in both men and women. Speak with a physician before using this herb.
Available Forms of Shatavari
Indigenous use of the herb includes boiling the root in milk and and then drinking to relieve chronic indigestion and to stimulate appetite, states the Infinity Foundation. Fresh juice from the root may be combined with honey and taken as soothing throat syrup. The shatavari root is also candied and eaten as a treat. Additionally, the powdered root mixed with water may be dispensed as a remedy for diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders, as well as to increase reproductive health in men and women. The use of this herb is not an adequate substitute for advice and treatment from a qualified health care provider.
Scientific Investigations
A 2003 review of shatavari in the "Indian Journal of Medical Sciences" reports on research studies that may bolster the herb's reputation as a potent form of plant medicine. The function of macrophages, cells that combat and digest harmful cancer cells and other organisms, seems to be improved with the use of shatavari. Scientists have also observed the herb's immune-modulating effects combating toxins in the body. Furthermore, the fresh juice of the root has demonstrated therapeutic effects on patients with duodenal ulcers. Ayurveda prescribes an extract of the root to increase mothers' milk production, but recent scientific studies have come to varying conclusions about its efficacy. More research is needed to ascertain the effectiveness of this herb. Do not use shatavari without consulting a physician first.
Safety Considerations
Dr. M.S. Premila reports in her 2006 book, "Ayurvedic Herbs: A Clinical Guide to the Healing Plants of Traditional Indian Medicine," that no adverse side effects have been noted in clinical studies on shatavari. According to the book "Complete Guide to Safe Herbs," it is important to eat potassium-rich foods while taking shatavari in order to compensate for the herb's diuretic effects. Pregnant women should not take this herb. Talk to your doctor before adding shatavari to your regimen.
References
- "Indian Journal of Medical Sciences"; Asparagus Racemosus: An update; R.K. Goyal, et al.; September 2003
- "Ayurvedic Herbs: A Clinical Guide to the Healing Plants of Traditional Indian Medicine"; M.S. Premila, Ph.D.; 2006
- Infinity Foundation: New Findings Vindicate Efficacy of Shatavari
- The Chopra Center: Ayurvedic Medicine Shatavari
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