Indspire Me

By Pankhuri Kumar

The Many Benefits of the Wonder Herb Shatavari

Shatavari or Asparagus racemosus is one of the most well-known Ayurvedic herbs when it comes to female health. It benefits all stages of the female reproductive body, starting from menarche to pregnancy and finally to menopause. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that are required for the healthy functioning of the body. The benefits of Shatavari are plentiful if one can successfully incorporate it in her (or his) diet. It provides the strength to fight some of the most dreadful diseases, apart from relief from some day-to-day illnesses. This herb is given a lot of importance in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. Also, it is low in calories, and can be eaten with almost anything and in any form.

Shatavari is one of the most well-known Ayurvedic herbs when it comes to female health. It benefits all stages of the female reproductive body, starting from menarche to pregnancy and finally to menopause. (Image Source: Indigo Herbs)

Shatavari maintains blood sugar and blood pressure levels

This wonder herb is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is full of antioxidants and dietary fibre, which help in lowering blood sugar levels. It also lessens the risk of Type -2 Diabetes. Not just this, the high amount of B-complex vitamins that are found in Shatavari reduces the risk of heart strokes by regulating the cholesterol levels and lowering the blood pressure.

Keeps the gut clean and healthy

The herb has high amounts of fibre, which leads to a healthy digestive system, giving relief from issues like constipation, ulcers, diarrhoea and so on. All this is made possible due to its fibrous and laxative properties that make it easy for the digestive system to break down the fats. The nutrient inulin helps in the breaking-down of carbohydrates, making the process of digestion smoother. Shatavari is highly recommended for abdominal uneasiness and stomach aches.

Shatavari is highly recommended for abdominal uneasiness and stomach aches. (Image Source: India Mart)

Shatavari benefits the female reproductive system

It helps in increasing the quality and quantity of milk output in breast-feeding women and prevents the stimulation of the muscles in the uterus. The herb is beneficial for infertile women as it helps reduce the risk of birth defects during pregnancy due to its high folate content, which is essential for the healthy growth of the foetus. Shatavari also helps in treating urinary tract infections by increasing the frequency of urination, which helps flush out the toxins.

 Provides relief during menstruation

Pre-menstrual bloating of the stomach is a common problem that menstruating women face. Ingesting Shatavari provides relief from such issues and helps fight depression and fatigue. Abundant in nutrients, the herb helps keep the blood loss in control and maintain hormonal balance in the body. It is also known to ease menstrual cramps, which is something most menstruating women face.

 Promotes good eye sight

Vitamin A is an important ingredient for healthy eyes, and Shatavari is known to be a good source of this utmost important vitamin. Oxygen-free radicals often cause harm to the retina, and the presence of antioxidants in this super food helps defend against the radicals. The ayurvedic miracle is also said to prevent eye diseases like Cataract and night blindness.

 Shatavari helps manage stress

Acting as a natural anti-depressant, consuming Shatavari can reduce anxiety attacks. It helps to keep the mind stable and enhance the memory retention capacity. Its consumption leads to the secretion of oestrogen, which has a calming and revitalising effect on the nervous system.

This wondrous herb benefits the bones too

This ayurvedic treasure has the ability to increase bone mineral density and prevent Arthritis, which is a chronic disease. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help relieve the pain associated with the disease. It helps in the overall development of the bones and reduces the frequency of fractures due to its high vitamin K content. Shatavari is also rich in folate and vitamin B12, which help in the breakdown of proteins and produce new red blood cells.

A tonic for the skin

Protecting the skin from being damaged due to sun tanning, slowing down the process of aging, keeping the mind fresh and the face glowing are just some of the many benefits of Shatavari.

Shatavari prevents clotting of blood

Being rich in vitamin K and rutin, Shatavari has the ability to stop the clotting of blood by strengthening the blood vessels and protecting them from becoming fragile. It prevents the arteries from becoming hard and helps in easing hypertension, which is essential for good cardiovascular health.

Benefits cancer patients

One of the most impressive things about Shatavari plant is that it contains a certain variety of phytonutrients called saponins that are known for possessing anti-cancer properties. The antioxidants also provide a detoxifying effect on the body, which helps in the prevention of diseases such as AIDS, HIV, Anaemia and so on.

Shatavari is the cure for “one hundred diseases”

The name says it all! Shatavari helps improve the functioning of lungs and can be used for the treatment of throat infections. It also provides relief from Bronchitis and Tuberculosis. As per studies, slowing down Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases is also possible because of the neuroprotective effects of shatavari. It can cure the symptoms of Epilepsy, which is a chronic brain disorder and can lead to serious health conditions and even death.

How to consume Shatavari

Shatavari has a mild flavour and can be eaten raw, grilled or roasted. It goes with pretty much anything including salads, soups and even pickles. It is prepared in different ways all over the world.

If one can understand how magical the herb truly is, it can do wonders to the human body. Consuming it on a regular basis promotes flawless and younger looking skin. However, if you are suffering from an ailment, then do take professional medical advice before making it a part of your diet. It helps in digestion, having a strong immune system and keeping the body toxin free. Shatavari benefits almost all parts of the body and helps people live a calm and tension-free life. Without any effort, the results from simply including this super food in the diet are amazing!

About the Author

Pankhuri Kumar is a student of Economics (Honours) at Hindu College, University of Delhi. She is a big believer in the power of positivity and plans to do her MBA in the future.  In her free time, Pankhuri can be found checking out new places to eat and shop at.