Do you know about the Shatavari herb? It is a powerful herb that has many amazing benefits for health and wellness. Shatavari is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body to adapt to stress. It is also an anti-inflammatory agent and can help relieve anxiety and depression.
Shatavari, known as Asparagus racemosus in Latin, is a powerful rejuvenating herb Ayurvedic herb. The plant belongs to the asparagus family. It has uniform pine needles and produces white flowers and blackish purple berries. Shatavari farming is very popular in India because it is one of the most powerful Ayurvedic medicines used for female reproductive health. It is estimated that 500 tonnes of Shatavari roots are used annually for preparing medicines in India.
Names for Shatavari
Some of the local names for Shatavari are Shatuli and Vrishya. However, the literal meaning of the word Shatavari means a “plant having a hundred roots”. Over the years the name has been loosely translated into “she who has a hundred husbands.” This is because of it being excellent for strengthening the female reproductive system.
Taste and effects on Doshas
The Shatavari plant has a bitter and sweet taste. It is said to be nourishing, cooling, and soothing in nature. Among the doshas, Shatavari balances the Vata and Pitta Dosha. However, overconsumption of Shatavari can result in an increase of the Kapha Dosha in our body. So, those who have a predominant Kapha constitution need to be a little cautious while taking this herb.
Shatavari Medicinal Uses
Shatavari has been used by Ayurvedic practitioners for many years. It is said to be an adaptogenic herb. Such herbs help your body cope with physical and emotional stress. Let us understand the various medical uses of Shatavari.
- Has antioxidant properties: Shatavari has a high percentage of saponins. Saponins have antioxidant properties and they help prevent the damage by free radicals.
- Helps boost immunity: Again, the saponins in Shatavari are potent immunity stimulators. It stimulates the production of cells that fight immunity thereby reducing the overall population of infection causing cells.
- Improves digestive health: Shatavari is very effective in improving digestion. Consuming this herb increases the activity of digestive enzymes lipase and amylase. Lipase aids fat digestion and amylase in the digestion of carbohydrates.
- Helps relieve cough: In a study conducted in year 2000 at West Bengal, India, researchers found that Shatavari root juice acts as a natural remedy for cough. The study evaluated its effectiveness in relieving coughs, and the results showed that Shatavari root extract was as effective as the prescription cough medicine.
- Helps maintain blood sugar: Shatavari is very beneficial for people suffering from Type 2 diabetes. It has been observed that intake of the herb helps maintain blood sugar levels in the body. This study published in the journal of endocrinology has studied how Shatavari helps in maintaining insulin levels.
- Acts as an aphrodisiac: Shatavari is said to be a natural aphrodisiac for women. For men, it works well when combined with Ashwagandha.
- Aids Male sexual health: In men, Shatavari increases testosterone levels, helps to increase sperm generation and reduces the inflammation in the reproductive system.
Shatavari Uses for Female Reproductive System
Many Ayurvedic practitioners call Shatavari a woman’s “best friend”. Shatavari is said to support a woman’s reproductive health from menarche to menopause. The saponins present in Shatavari are potent estrogen stimulators that is crucial for reproductive functioning and regular menstrual cycle in a woman. Here is the list of Shatavari Kalpa uses for the female reproductive system:
- It regulates the menstrual cycle and is effective in menorrhagia (Menorrhagia is the term used for excessive blood flow during menstruation)
- Increases blood flow to the vaginal area and increases vaginal lubrication.
- Shatavari manages the symptoms of PMS and is also effective in reducing cramps during menstruation (dysmenorrhea).
- It increases the female libido.
- Helps in maintaining a healthy womb thereby preparing a woman for conception. Shatavari is also effective in preventing miscarriages.
- Shatavari can help increase the production of milk in lactating mothers.
- In women undergoing menopause, Shatavari helps to balance the hormones. It also helps relieve symptoms like irritability, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and night sweats.
- Shatavari is said to aid the production of happy hormones thereby reducing the incidence of mood swings in women undergoing menopause.
A few clinical papers and studies elaborate on the various benefits of this queen of herbs.
Shatavari Uses for Skin
This herb offers various benefits when applied topically. Shatavari is a natural ally for healthy and radiant skin. Explore the ways Shatavari can enhance your skin:
1. Anti-wrinkle
Shatavari aids in controlling facial wrinkles, often caused by aging, dryness, and insufficient moisture, attributed in Ayurveda to an imbalanced Vata. By harmonizing Vata, Shatavari helps regulate wrinkles and, with its Rasayana (rejuvenating) quality, eliminates dead skin, promoting clear skin.
Tips for usage:
- Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of Shatavari powder
- Mix it with honey or milk to form a paste
- Apply on affected areas
- Leave for at least 3-4 hours
- Then rinse with water
- Repeat 2-3 times weekly for optimal results
Additionally, in Ayurveda, Shatavari leaves boiled in oil and applied, particularly on the head, can aid in balancing Vata, relieving headaches.
2. Wound healing
Shatavari aids in speeding up wound healing, reducing swelling, and restoring the skin's normal texture. A mixture of Shatavari powder and coconut oil forms a paste that can heal wounds and reduce inflammation due to its healing and cooling properties.
Here are some tips:
- Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of Shatavari powder or adjust as required
- Mix with coconut oil to create a paste
- Apply the paste to the affected area
- Leave it on for at least 3-4 hours
- Repeat this process for faster wound healing
How to Use Shatavari Powder for Weight Loss?
For centuries, Shatavari has been relied upon to assist in weight loss. It operates by regulating metabolism and encouraging detoxification in the body.
To support weight loss, consume Shatavari powder with warm water or milk during the morning.
Potential Side Effects & Risks of Shatavari Plant
If you are allergic to asparagus, it is advisable not to use this supplement. Get medical help if your asthma or allergies get worse.
Symptoms to watch for include
- Rash
- Fast heart rate
- Itchy eyes
- Itchy skin
- Trouble breathing
- Feeling dizzy
Shatavari might have a diuretic effect. Avoid taking it with other diuretic herbs or drugs, like furosemide (Lasix).
Shatavari might also lower your blood sugar. Avoid taking it with other drugs or herbs that do the same, as it can have adverse effect.
Conclusion
In recent years, more and more women have complaints and problems related to their reproductive health. Instead of taking a chemical-based medicine, Shatavari is a healthier and safer option. So, stay fit and happy and choose this Ayurvedic remedy for a healthy reproductive system.
Although consuming the herb in small amounts seems safe, there could be adverse effects when using it during pregnancy or in larger amounts. Before taking the supplement, it is important to consult an Ayurvedic doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits.
Shatavari from Vedi
Another trusted product from Vedi is the Shatavari tablet. The tablet comes in a strength of 500 mg, and one is recommended to take 1 tablet twice a day after meals. The product is made from the best quality Shatavari that is harvested from the rural parts of India. We ensure that only the best product is made available to our valued customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Shatavari powder used for?
A: Shatavari Churna is used for various purposes, including promoting reproductive health in women, boosting lactation, improving digestion, and supporting immune function. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may further help in managing stress and enhancing overall well-being.
Q: What is the recommended dosage of Shatavari?
A: Here is the list of the recommended dosage of Shatavari for adults. However, you must consult a doctor before consuming Shatavari.
- Shatavari Syrup - 1-2 teaspoons twice a day
- Shatavari Churna - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day
- Shatavari Juice - 2-3 teaspoons once a day
- Shatavari Tablet - 1-2 Tablets twice a day
- Shatavari Capsule - 1-2 Capsules twice a day
