(Asparagus racemosus)
A. racemosus, or Shatavari is common throughout Sri Lanka, India and the Himalayas
Shatavari may be translated as “100 spouses”, implying its ability to increase fertility and vitality. It is considered both a general tonic and a female reproductive tonic. In Ayurveda, this amazing herb is known as the “Queen of herbs”, because it promotes love and devotion. Shatavari is the main Ayurvedic rejuvenative tonic for the female.
Shatavari is a well known Ayurvedic rasayana which prevents ageing, increases longevity, imparts immunity, improves mental function, vigor and adds vitality to the body. It is also used in nervous disorders, dyspepsia, tumors, inflammation, neuropathy, hepatopathy. Reports indicate that the pharmacological activities of A. racemosus root extract include antiulcer, antioxidant, and antidiarrhoeal, antidiabetic and immunomodulatory activities.
In spite of being a rejuvenating herb it is beneficial in female infertility, as it increases libido, cures inflammation of sexual organs and even moistens dry tissues of the sexual organs, enhances folliculogenesis and ovulation, prepares womb for conception, prevents miscarriages, acts as post partum tonic by increasing lactation, normalizing uterus and changing hormones. Its use is also advocated in leucorrhoea and menorrhagia. Shatavari is a valuable herb in the later years too.
Reference: Alok S, Jain SK, Verma A, Kumar M, Mahor A, Sabharwal M. Plant profile, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari): A review. Asian Pac J Trop Dis. 2013 Jun;3(3):242–51. doi: 10.1016/S2222-1808(13)60049-3. PMCID: PMC4027291.
Please consult your medical care provider before using any herbal medicine, particularly if you have a sensitivity or allergy to the herb or Asparagus family, a known medical condition, are taking medication or if you are pregnant or nursing.