Many years before realising I wanted to become an Herbalist, I seriously entertained the idea of studying Ayurvedic medicine.
There was a private college in (where the hell is) Kyogle, but as I was domiciled in Sydney, and well entrenched in the ways of the rat race, it seemed just a little too unrealistic a path for me at that point in time. The Universe clearly had other plans for me, and it would be almost a decade later until I would be reunited with my love of the (Ayurvedic) herbs.
Asparagus racemosus, also reverently referred to as Maha Shatavari, literally means the great plant with 100 roots, that can bring you 100 husbands! It is thus named due to its plethora of little tubers, and also its reputation as a remedy to cure sexual debility. I’m not quite sure how 100 husbands could help with that particular ailment; perhaps it more-so implies that by taking this medicine one might be ‘blessed’ with the sexual energy to please 100 husbands. Goodness!
Claimed by some (Ayurvedic) practitioners to be the world's best hormonal balancing herb for women, it is also a wonderful remedy for improving stamina, energy, endurance, metabolism and immunity. Its adaptogenic qualities enable the body to adjust to all environments, which is highlighted by this plant’s ability to grow in dry, hot and sandy soils. Its capacity to replenish and balance fluids and nourish the body further support this ‘queen of the herb’s’ reputation as an adaptogenic panacea.
Some of the different phytochemicals present in Shatavari include: steroidal saponins (Shatavarins), alkaloids, oligosaccharides, mucilage, isoflavones, flavonoids such as quercetin and rutin (which are present in the fruits and flowers), and sterols such as sitosterol (in the roots). Other various minerals that are contained in the roots include copper, manganese, zinc, calcium, magnesium, selenium and potassium, vitamins A and C, and gamma-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid. Its energetic qualities are bittersweet, cooling and drying and is very balancing to pitta and vata constitutional types.
Used for nourishing the (female) reproductive system throughout all stages of life, this herb is most beneficial for restoring hormonal balance (especially oestrogen), regulating the menstrual cycle, relieving premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as moodiness, cramps, bloating and fluid retention. Shatavari strengthens the female reproductive organs and can aid fertility by enhancing the maturation of eggs into follicles, resulting in positive pregnancy.
Whilst we are on the subject of fertility, it is worthwhile mentioning that Shatavari is also supportive of the male reproductive system; increasing and enhancing sperm growth, quality and count, and improving libido (in both males and females).
I love this herb best for its ability to ease the symptoms of and support women through their menopausal years. Shatavari’s rich phytoestrogenic compounds help to restore hormonal balance and alleviate menopausal symptoms caused by declining oestrogen levels in the body. In fact, this is how I most us this herb in clinic; as a menopausal remedy.
It is an incredibly nourishing, building and tonifying herb to the whole of the body and in addition to the reproductive system, can help with a variety of other ailments such as gastrointestinal inflammation and ulceration, dysentery, urinary tract inflammation (cystitis) and rheumatism.
If you are fortunate enough to have access to the fresh plant, its medicine can be enjoyed as a wholefood; typically by simmering the root and enjoying it simply as is, or with a little warm milk and honey.
Commercially, Shatavari is available as an extract (liquid herbal tincture) or in powdered form. At Blessed Botanicals we stock both the extract and the powder.
Please reach out if you think you might benefit from a little Shatavari lovin’.
Blessed Be!