Asparagus racemosus
Part Used: Dried whole root
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is a rejuvenating herb that cools the body and strengthens and nourishes the tissues. It may be taken by both women and men to remove excess Vata and Pitta from the system and to support the proper function of the reproductive organs. Traditionally, it has been used to stimulate the production of female hormones due to its ability to increase fertility and vitality. It encourages the production of milk in lactating mothers, and is also useful during menopause and for women who have had hysterectomies. It helps to build immunity, improve the intellect, stimulate digestion, and enhance strength and energy. It helps remove toxins from the blood and supports the proper function of the liver. It also acts to soothe, protect and nurture inflamed membranes of the lungs, stomach, kidneys and reproductive organs. It is regarded as a female reproductive tonic.
Shatavari nourishes and cleanses the blood and supports the female reproductive functions. It is recommended for menopause and also helps maintain a healthy urinary tract and strengthens the immune system. It is also able to help regulate hormone levels, and is of particular benefit in the treatment of female reproductive problems, such as menstrual irregularities, due to its rejuvenating and restorative properties. It is the most important herb in Ayurvedic medicine for dealing with problems connected women's fertility. The rhizome is a soothing tonic that acts mainly on the circulatory, digestive, respiratory and female reproductive organs. The root is alterative, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, demulcent, diuretic, galactogogue and refrigerant. It is taken internally in the treatment of infertility, loss of libido, threatened miscarriage, menopausal problems, hyperacidity, stomach ulcers and bronchial infections. Externally it is used to treat stiffness in the joints. The root is used fresh in the treatment of dysentery. It is harvested in the autumn and dried for use in treating other complaints. The whole plant is used in the treatment of diarrhoea, rheumatism, diabetes and brain complaints.
References:
Garry & Sun. http://www.garrysun.com/hrt.html
Plants for a future. http://www.pfaf.org/database/plants.php?Asparagus+racemosus
