Terza Luna Spezie Ayurvediche^Wild Indian Asparagus

SHATAVARI 

Shatavari Powder (Wild Indian Asparagus)

• Asparagus racemosus
• Origin: India
• Format: Powdered root

Shatavari: what is it?

Shatavari, also known as wild Indian asparagus, is a precious plant in the Ayurvedic medicine landscape, whose root is rich in beneficial properties. Scientifically known as Asparagus racemosus, Shatavari is appreciated for its rasayana properties, a Sanskrit term indicating rejuvenating and invigorating qualities.

This plant is able to stimulate energy and vigor, contributing to maintaining a youthful and vital appearance and promoting a psycho-physical balance. The meaning of its name in Sanskrit, "she who possesses a hundred roots" or "she who possesses a hundred husbands," emphasizes its ability to particularly invigorate the female reproductive system and improve fertility. The powder obtained from the Shatavari root is particularly suitable for the well-being of female reproductive organs, so much so that it is nicknamed "the herb of women."

This plant belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is mainly found in India, Africa, and Australia. Characterized by woody stems and thin needle-like leaves, Shatavari blooms in July with small white flowers and bears purple-black berries in September. It prefers gravelly and rocky soils of high foothill plains, where it can grow up to 2 meters in height. Shatavari roots are a concentrate of therapeutic properties. Shatavari powder is used as a particularly effective supplement in regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting women during the transition to menopause.

Shatavari: properties and benefits

Once dried and processed, Shatavari roots become a powerful ally for health, especially for women. Here is a list of the most relevant properties:

• Hormonal rebalancer: helps stabilize female hormone levels.
• Galactogogue: increases the production of breast milk thanks to steroid saponins.
• Invigorating tonic: increases energy levels and reduces fatigue.
• Digestive: improves digestion and enzymatic activity, helping to reduce gastric ulcers and purify the intestine.
• Appetite stimulant: promotes a healthy appetite and supports nutrient intake.
• Adaptogen: helps the body manage stress and regulate cortisol.
• Intestinal regulator: facilitates intestinal transit and counteracts toxin formation.
• Anti-inflammatory: contains racemofuran, which helps mitigate inflammation, especially in the digestive tract.
• Immuno-protector: supports the immune system by increasing antibody production.
• Antioxidant: prevents cellular damage caused by free radicals and promotes an anti-aging effect.
• Diuretic and detoxifying: promotes diuresis without eliminating essential minerals or nutrients, keeping the urinary tract clean and preventing kidney stone formation.

These properties make Shatavari a valuable natural supplement to support women during all stages of life, from fertile age to menopause.
Since the properties of Shatavari are numerous, we recommend consulting scientific databases that contain studies conducted on the plant for those who wish to delve deeper.

Shatavari and female fertility

Shatavari is celebrated in Ayurvedic medicine as an extremely beneficial plant for women, so much so that it is nicknamed "the herb of women." This plant stands out for its positive impact on fertility and female reproductive health, offering a range of benefits that encompass various aspects of women's lives.

Among the main benefits associated with the use of Shatavari we find: – **Fertility support**: for centuries, Shatavari has been used to improve the functions of the female reproductive system and increase fertility. – **Ovarian health**: it is useful in the prevention and treatment of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis. – **Libido**: in Ayurveda, Shatavari is known for its role in reviving sexual desire, both in women and men. – **Menstrual cycle**: helps regulate the menstrual cycle, alleviating symptoms such as dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia, and reducing menstrual pains. – **Menopause**: the phytoestrogens present in Shatavari help balance hormone levels, mitigating common menopausal side effects such as hot flashes, irritability, mood swings, depression, and insomnia. – **Postpartum**: it proves to be a valuable support against postpartum depression thanks to its rebalancing properties. Furthermore, Shatavari is known for its galactogenic properties that stimulate the production of breast milk, thus supporting new mothers during the breastfeeding phase. This root is recommended by Ayurvedic practitioners mainly to women to enhance the functions of the reproductive system and promote a serene and healthy motherhood. **Active principles** Shatavari is a plant with an extraordinarily rich chemical composition, which contributes to its numerous health benefits. Among the minerals contained are zinc, copper, and potassium, as well as essential vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C, which give the plant adaptogenic, digestive, and antioxidant properties. The active principles nestled in the root of Shatavari, the part of the plant most commonly used in dried form to create powder or tablet supplements, are multiple and diversified. Among these stand out: – **Asparagine**: an amino acid that plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism. – **Saponins**: including shatavaroside A and B, filiasparoside C, and asparinin B, substances known for their immunomodulatory and adaptogenic properties. – **Flavonoid glycosides**: such as quercetin, rutin, and hyperoside, powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress. – **Isoflavones**: plant compounds similar to estrogens that can have positive effects on hormonal balance. – **Essential fatty acids**: including gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), known for its anti-inflammatory properties. – **Polycyclic alkaloid**: Asparagamine A, an organic compound that may have beneficial effects on neurological health and the immune system. – **Glycosides**: molecules that perform various biological functions within the body. – **Oligospirostanosides**: compounds with potential effects on the endocrine system. – **Polysaccharides and Mucilages**: substances that contribute to regulating intestinal transit and protecting mucous membranes. The combination of these active principles makes Shatavari a particularly versatile and effective natural supplement, capable of offering support at various levels for general physical well-being. **What is Shatavari used for?** Thanks to its benefits, Shatavari presents itself as a true ally of well-being, both male and female, regardless of age. Its reputation as a natural tonic makes it an excellent option for those seeking a remedy to combat physical and mental fatigue. This plant, used for over a thousand years in Indian tradition, has earned a prominent place in Ayurvedic medicine thanks to its ability to tone and revitalize the body. The use of Shatavari is not limited to mere invigoration: it is an overall tonic that can be taken to strengthen the body and mind, offering valuable support in periods of convalescence or particular fatigue. Its beneficial action extends to different levels, making it a versatile supplement suitable for various needs. In India, the place of its origins, Shatavari is used following ancient recipes and methods that enhance its properties, thus perpetuating the millennia-old wisdom of this culture in personal care.

How to take shatavari?

Shatavari commonly comes in the form of powdered root, a format that makes it easy to take and integrate into daily diet. The recommended dose of this precious powder is two teaspoons a day, a quantity that can be easily adjusted according to individual needs and the advice of an expert.

For optimal consumption, Shatavari powder can be mixed into various beverages: water, fruit juice, smoothies, juices, milk or plant-based alternatives such as coconut, rice, or oat milk. This versatility allows for easy and pleasant incorporation into one's dietary routine.

According to Vedic tradition, Shatavari is recognized for its gradual and profound action. Therefore, constant and prolonged use is recommended to fully appreciate its beneficial effects. Regular intake over time helps establish internal balance and make the most of its therapeutic properties. Always remember to consult a professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

On Terzaluna, you can find shavatari for sale in a 100g package.

Contraindications

Although Shatavari is generally well tolerated and not known to have significant side effects, there are some precautions to consider before using it. It is advisable to avoid taking Shatavari if you are already using diuretic medications or if you suffer from kidney or heart conditions, due to its natural diuretic effects. In these cases, it is essential to inform your doctor before starting to take this supplement. During pregnancy, it is particularly important to consult a gynecologist before taking Shatavari.

Despite being a plant that promotes fertility and provides relief from menstrual and menopausal disorders, during pregnancy it could have unwanted effects as it acts as a tonic for uterine muscles. Caution is therefore recommended to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing baby.