Shatavari

Asparagus Racemoses

A hermaphrodite (has male and female organs), perennial vine growing to 3m (9ft) in height. The leaves are shiny green and similar to small pine-needles in shape. Minute white flowers bloom in late spring and fruits late September. The tubular roots can measure up to 1m (3ft) in length and number up to 100 per plant.

Family: Asparagaceae

Which probiotic is it in?: Shatavari is a key herb in Detox and Women

Habit and cultivation: Native to India and the Himalayas, Shatavari roots best on rocky, gravelly soils at elevations of up to 1,400m (4,600ft). Now considered an endangered species.

Actions (known for): Anti-oxidant, diuretic, anti-depressant, adaptogen, galactogogue, oestrogen modulator, anti-tussive, anti-bacterial, immunomodulator, digestive and cytoprotective.

History of Shatavari

An important traditional Ayurvedic herb that has particular benefits to the female reproductive system. Translates to 100 husbands, 100 roots and several other 100’s! A general ‘go to’ tonic and used for sexual debility in both males and females for centuries.

Parts used from the Shatavari

Roots

Constituents (bio available chemicals):

Asparagamine A, sterol saponins (shatavaroside A, shatavaroside B), filiasparoside C, shatavarins and asparanin A.

Nutritional constituents:

Minerals: copper, zinc, manganese, iron, cobalt, sodium, potassium, calcium and lithium.

Indications:

Stress, fatigue, chronic disease, adjunct to cancer treatment, cough, fluid retention, cystitis, gastritis, diarrhoea, stomach ulcers, urinary stone prevention, sexual debility, infertility and menopausal symptoms, threatened miscarriage, general anti-oxidant and neuroprotective.

Dosage:

Liquid extract (1:2): 30-60ml per week. Infusion: 500-1,000mg twice daily.

British Herbal Pharmacopoeia

Cautions for therapeutic doses

Diarrhoea

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