Shatavari, a herb used in Ayurvedic medicine, may promote female reproductive health, aid digestion, act as an anti-inflammatory, and have a calming effect. However, more scientific evidence is needed to support these claims. Studies have shown conflicting results regarding its ability to increase milk production and its safety during pregnancy. It may also be effective in treating digestive ailments such as gastroparesis and gastric ulcers.
A common herb in Ayurvedic medicine, shatavari, is believed to have several health benefits. It is most commonly used to promote female reproductive health, although studies show some conflicting results. The herb, a relative of asparagus, may also promote healthy digestive health, act as an anti-inflammatory, and have a calming and de-stressing effect. However, most of these benefits require more scientific evidence.
Shatavari belongs to the same family as common asparagus. Its Latin name is racemose asparagus. In some countries, it is known as “100 Husbands”, due to its perceived ability to increase female reproductive health and libido. The herb is most commonly found in Asia, particularly India and lower China, but it can also be found in some parts of Africa.
The Indian Journal of Medical Science promotes the usefulness of racemose asparagus in the treatment of nervous disorders, inflammation, liver disease, and certain types of infection. This journal does not offer scientific evidence, however, to support such claims. Also, the US Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated racemose asparagus. The herb is commonly used by Ayurvedic physicians, who practice a holistic, spiritual approach to medicine and health. Shatavari is often available in capsule form, although it is also sometimes available as a powder to mix with milk.
A few studies have been conducted to test the purported benefits of the herb on female reproductive health. These studies have shown evidence that racemose asparagus can increase milk production in both rats and buffaloes. Rats were also found to have an increase in mammary tissue weight after the herb was administered.
Conflicting results have been found in human studies on shatavari’s ability to increase milk production. Some studies have not suggested such a significant effect. However, a study involving an alcoholic extract derived from the herb showed an increase in participants’ serum prolactin levels. This may indicate a positive effect on human milk production as a result of taking shatavari.
The herb may be able to treat some ailments that also involve the female reproductive system. Because it has been shown to have some anti-inflammatory effects, racemose asparagus might decrease inflammation of the sexual organs, particularly during the menstrual cycle. The herb can help relieve menstrual pain, minimize PMS symptoms, and control blood loss during menstruation. Some sources suggest that shatavari also relieves morning sickness and pregnancy-related lethargy, although there is conflicting data on whether it is safe to take during pregnancy. Sources promoting the use of the herb during pregnancy also claim that it can help against premature labor or miscarriage by blocking oxytocin receptors in the uterus.
In addition to the female reproductive health benefits, shatavari can also soothe digestive ailments. The herb is a proven diuretic, and may be useful in combating gastroparesis, a condition that causes the stomach to slowly empty into the gastrointestinal tract. Racemose asparagus may also be effective in the treatment of gastric ulcers. A study involving a 15-day course of the herb, administered orally, indicated a significant decrease in the rate of ulceration in rats. This study suggests that racemose asparagus may inhibit the release of excess gastric hydrochloric acid.
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