Ayurveda

What Is Shatavari?

What Is Shatavari?
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), also called Satavar, is one of the most powerful rejuvenating herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. The plant is found native in India and is in the same family as the common asparagus. Shatavari has small, uniform pine needles and produces white flowers and blackish-purple berries.

Sometimes translated as “she who possesses 100 husbands,” Shatavari has a reputation as a fertility-enhancing plant that improves the health of both male and female reproductive issues, in addition to other conditions.

The Potential Health Benefits of Shatavari

Shatavari has a wide range of benefits. A study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease showed that the herb strengthens the immune system by enhancing the functioning of macrophages―the immune cells responsible for digesting potentially destructive organisms and cancer cells.

The same study showed that Shatavari can help with female reproductive issues, including:

  • Mood swings
  • Irritation associated with premenstrual syndrome
  • Menopausal hot flashes
  • Fertility
  • Breast milk production
The research also shown that Shatavari can help with the following conditions:

  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion
  • Diarrhea
  • Inflammation of the urinary tract
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Immune system response

Shatavari and the Doshas

Shatavari contains both the bitter and sweet tastes and has nourishing, soothing, and cooling properties that help with many conditions when the body and mind are overheated, depleted, or out of balance.

If you’re looking to balance your Vata and Pitta, consider trying a Shatavari supplement. Shatavari can can mildly increase Kapha if taken in excess so be mindful of taking too much if you have a Kapha constitution.

How to Use Shatavari

Both the root and leaves of Shavatari are used in Ayurvedic medicine. Shatavari can be taken as a powder, a tablet, or a liquid extract. The most common Ayurvedic practice is to use the powder form because tasting the herb starts the digestive process.

Shatavari is traditionally taken mixed with a glass of warm milk and sugar or honey, but can be mixed into a wide range of dishes, drinks, and teas. The recommended dose is 500 to 1,000 mg twice daily.

*Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only; does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Chopra Center's Mind-Body Medical Group; and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.