Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
Benefits of Shatavari
- Relaxation
- Women's health
- Strength
- Form: Plant
- Where it's from: Africa, Southern Asia and Northern Australia
What is Shatavari?
Shatavari is a herb that has been used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic and aboriginal Australian medicine for thousands of years. It is referred to as the 'queen of herbs' and holds a special place in Ayurvedic classics as a 'Rasayana' herb, traditionally used particularly by women.
It is a source of phytoestrogens and contains a wide range of bioactive constituents. Shatavari root has a long tradition of use by both women and men, and it is particularly well known among women at every life stage, including during and after the menopause. Shatavari is described as an adaptogenic herb. 'Adaptogenic' is the name given to plants, herbs and fungi that are studied for how the body responds to stress.
What does the research say about Shatavari?
Researchers continue to study shatavari's bioactive constituents, and clinical studies are still being undertaken. A review has looked at the adaptogenic properties of shatavari, including research relating to the monthly cycle and to how women respond to physical and emotional stress.
In a study in postmenopausal women, researchers measured handgrip strength and markers in muscle and bone after shatavari supplementation.
The monthly cycle can affect much more than mood and the occasional tummy ache. You may enjoy reading 'The surprising life impacts of PMS', 'Nutrition for PMS' and 'Which PMS type are you?'.
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