Brief Review on Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) and Its Medicinal Uses

Abstract

Asparagus racemosus is another name for shatavari. It belongs to the family asparagaceae. It is an adaptable plant as well. The adaptation of human body to mental and physical stress is said to be achieved by the help of adaptogenic herbs like these. Shatavari is an ayurvedic medicine staple that is made available in the form of analeptic for the wellbeing and vitality of person. It is popular among all therapeutic plants due to various active biochemicals present in it such as steroidal glycosides, saponins (Shatavarins I, II, III, and IV), flavonoids, polyphenols, vitamins and alkaloids (racemosol). Shatavari extracts from its different parts like roots, flowers, leaves and stems are effective in treating female organs which are involved in reproduction. For centuries, ayurvedic medicine has employed shatavari. However, there haven't been enough human trials to recommend it for any medical problem. It is, however, safe to consume it in modest doses, and doing so will allow you to benefit from its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. Except for being an indigenous medicinal plant which known to be important for its sapogenin content which is the precursor of many active pharmacological steroids, it also has many medicinal uses like antioxytoxic (shatavarin four),spasmodic to uterus, hypertensive as well as hypoglycemic activity, anticoagulant activity, antiviral activity, anticancer and antidysentric activity. In ayurvedic medicine asparagus racemosus is considered as tonic specific to females .Despite of being a herb which is rejuvenating it is used in infertility cases of females, increases libido , enhances ovulation as well as folliculogenesis, also increases lactation.