Shatavari

Shatavari or Indian asparagus (Asparagus racemosus) is a climber that is commonly found in India, especially, in the Himalayas. This plant is also seen in some regions of China, Africa and Australia. This plant with woody stems and pine needle-like leaves are highly valued in the traditional medicine of India, called Ayurveda. Even though the leaves and flowers of the plant are sometimes used for medicinal purposes, the tuberous roots are the highly valued part of the plant. It has been observed that a single shatavari plant may grow more than hundred tuberous roots with tapering ends. In Ayurveda, shatavari roots in dried form are used for treating various health problems, especially, those relating to female reproductive health. Nowadays, it is available in the form of extracts, as capsules.

Shatavari Benefits

Shatavari, which is one of the commonly used rejuvenating herbs for females, is also found to be beneficial for treating some gastrointestinal problems and wound healing. In fact, the Sanskrit meaning for shatavari is the "she who possesses a hundred husbands."

• As stated above, shatavari root has rejuvenating properties. It is mainly used as tonic for the female reproductive system. It is said that this herb can improve female fertility.
• Shatavari is also believed to be effective in regulating hormonal balance in females and also to treat conditions associated with female hormonal imbalance. It is also found to be useful in treating amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, leucorrhea and pelvic inflammatory diseases.
• This herb is claimed to be highly beneficial in normalizing irregularities in menstruation as well as ovulation. It is also said to maintain the pH balance of the vagina and remedy vaginal dryness.
• Another shatavari benefit is the increased production of breast milk in nursing women. Even women in the menopausal phase can reap the benefits of shatavari, as this herb is touted to be effective in alleviating menopause symptoms.
• It is also used to reduce inflammation of the female reproductive organs during menstruation. Even premenstrual syndrome, menstrual pain and menstrual blood loss, are said to be controlled with shatavari usage.
• This herb is said to be good for women with low estrogen levels. It is also used to increase sexual desire in women. This herb is also suggested to have a positive effect on people with depression and stress.
• It is also used as an immune system booster that can improve the overall health of the user. Shatavari is said to help digestion and in fighting conditions like heartburn, colitis, hyper acidity, stomach ulcers, etc.
• This herb is also used to reduce fever and inflammation. It is also said to be effective in treating some diseases caused by bacteria. This herb is found to be useful in treating cholera and typhoid fever. Even some respiratory conditions like bronchitis, are said to be treated with shatavari.

Side Effects of Shatavari

Like many other herbs, there is no scientific proof for the effectiveness of shatavari in treating the above said conditions. But, it is an age-old remedy that is found to be effective in most of the users. Even though it is said to be safe without any side effects, some people may develop allergic reactions after intake of shatavari. In such cases, skin reactions as well as breathing trouble can be seen. Kids below the age of fifteen, people with kidney disorders or heart diseases must avoid this herb. There are chances that some of the users experience weight gain with use of shatavari. Women with estrogen induced disorders like massive fibrocystic breasts, should avoid use of this herb. Other side effects include dizziness and fatigue.

If you are interested in using shatavari, you must consult a qualified herbal practitioner and act as per his instructions. Stick to the proper dosage and discontinue the use, if you experience any adverse effects. You may also seek the opinion of your doctor, before starting treatment with this herb.