The Ayurvedic rasayana herb shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is synonymous with Women’s health because of its benefits and advantages in treating several diseases and health conditions related to women at almost every age and stage of life. Interestingly, being an antioxidant and known to improve blood sugar levels, it is also advantageous for men as well. Let’s check out the health benefits of Shatavari for women, along with its many medicinal as well as therapeutic uses
Health Benefits of Shatavari
Shatavari is a Rich Source of Antioxidant
Antioxidants shield cells from damage caused by free radicals. They also combat oxidative stress, which is a disease-causing factor. Shatavari has a lot of saponins. Saponins are substances that have antioxidant properties.
Besides, going by the latest studies, racemofuran, a new antioxidant compound, has been discovered in Shatavari root along with two other known compounds such as racemosol and Asparagamine A. (Source)
Health Benefits of Shatavari: The Herb Can Relieve You From Cough and Coughing problem
Shatavari root juice is a traditional cough medicine in West Bengal, India. Research-wise, researchers have tested Shatavari’s ability to stop coughing in coughing mice. They discovered that codeine phosphate, a pharmaceutical cough suppressant, and Shatavari root extract both halted coughing. However, although used traditionally for cough problems, more research is required to understand how Shatavari relieves coughs. (Source )
Shatavari and Ulcer Treatment
We all know that our stomach, small intestine, and/or esophagus can develop ulcers, and they come with a lot of pain as they may result in severe side effects like bleeding or perforation. A 2005 study on rats found that Shatavari was successful in healing medication-induced stomach ulcers. (Source)
Shatavari Benefits in Treatment of Kidney Stones
Hard deposits in your kidneys in the form of stones may cause intense discomfort as they move through your urinary tract. Now, oxalates are the main component of kidney stones. Compounds called oxalates are present in various meals, including spinach, beets, and french fries.
Interestingly, studies have shown that Shatavari root extract can prevent the development of oxalate stones. Additionally, it even raises the level of magnesium in the urine. That’s all the better because it is believed that maintaining healthy levels of magnesium in the body can aid in preventing the formation of urine crystals that result in kidney stones. (Source)
Did you know the Indian Herb Shatavari Has Anti-aging properties?
One of nature’s best-kept anti-aging secrets is Shatavari. Studies have found that saponins in Shatavari root can help lessen the skin damage caused by free radicals that are known to cause wrinkles. Additionally, Shatavari prevents collagen deterioration and maintains the flexibility of your skin. However, before topical Shatavari products are marketed as anti-aging agents, more research would be required. (source )
Shatavari helps in Treating Diarrhea
Shatavari is a traditional treatment for diarrhea. Serious issues including electrolyte imbalance and dehydration can arise from diarrhea. According to studies Shatavari has been shown to prevent castor oil-induced diarrhea in rats. Whether Shatavari can produce similar outcomes in humans, is something that would require more clinical research (source )
Also Read: Punarnava Benefits: Nutritional Value, Therapeutic Use & Health Benefits
Medicinal and Therapeutic uses of Shatavari
- Can be used to fix the hormonal imbalance in women
Shatavari, or A. racemosus, is frequently used in traditional medicine to treat female health issues, particularly disorders of the reproductive system. According to a reliable source, this plant may be effective in treating polycystic ovarian syndrome and hormonal abnormalities. This is the reason many Ayurvedic doctors are using Shatavari for women suffering from PCOS. ( source )
- Used to reduce menopause symptoms
Recent studies indicate that a combination of herbal medications, including A. racemosus, may lessen the symptoms of menopause, in keeping with its traditional use as a treatment for female reproductive conditions. (source )
- Used to boost milk production in women after pregnancy
Shatavari is frequently used as a galactagogue, a drug that increases milk production while breastfeeding. It has been used in India for lactation. However, a lot of clinical trials are needed on this as there is still little information backed by science. (Source )
- Might help in reducing anxiety and depression
Supplements containing Shatavari have historically been used to treat sadness and anxiety. Animal studies have suggested that the plant may have these benefits. Also, according to a 2014 study that was published in Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, Shatavari lowers anxiety. (Source )
Must Take: Precautions before Using Shatavari:
Lithium excreta may be affected by Shatavari. So, before using Shatavari if you are receiving lithium ion therapy, please talk to your doctor.
Side Effects of Using Shatavari
The effects of Shatavari on humans have been the subject of very little research. Anyone who consumes the supplement does so at their own risk. However, there might be a few side effects in rare cases such as
- Difficulty in Breathing
- Itchy skin or eyes
- A rash or hives
- A rapid heart rate
- Dizziness
These are the health benefits of Shatavari backed by Science, to know more about such herbs and seeds, explore – Natural Healing and Healthy Herbs
