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|data4 = Available
|data4 = Available
|label5 = Contributors
|label5 = Contributors
|data5 = --
|data5 = Team Dravyaguna
|label6 = Year of publication  
|label6 = Year of publication  
|data6 =  2025
|data6 =  2026
|label7 = Publisher  
|label7 = Publisher  
|data7 =  [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
|data7 =  [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
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|data8  = Awaited
|data8  = Awaited
}}
}}
'''''Asparagus racemosus''''' (commonly known as '''Shatavari''') is a species of plant in the family [[Asparagaceae]].


==English name==
==English name==
Wild Asparagus
Wild Asparagus


==Therapeutic Uses1==
==Therapeutic Uses==
Acid Peptic Disorders (Amlapitta), Haemorrhoids (Arsha), Diarrhoea (Atisara), Abdominal lump (Gulma), Kshaya, Bleeding diarrhoea (Raktisara), Intrinsic haemorrhage (Raktapitta), Raktavikara, Gout (Vatarakta), Herpes zoster (Visarpa), Parinama Shoola, Mutrarakta, Vatajvara, Hoarseness of voice (Svarabheda), Night blindness (Naktandhya), Sutika Roga, Stanya Dosha, Stanya Kshaya
 
Acid Peptic Disorders (Amlapitta), Haemorrhoids (Arsha), Diarrhoea (Atisara), Abdominal lump (Gulma), Kshaya, Bleeding diarrhoea (Raktisara), Intrinsic haemorrhage (Raktapitta), Raktavikara, Gout (Vatarakta), Herpes zoster (Visarpa), Parinama Shoola, Mutrarakta, Vatajvara, Hoarseness of voice (Svarabheda), Night blindness (Naktandhya), Sutika Roga, Stanya Dosha, Stanya Kshaya<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume IV:50.</ref>


==Other varieties / other botanical names==
==Other varieties / other botanical names==
Line 31: Line 34:


==Types==
==Types==
==Bhavaprakasha Nighantu2==
===Bhavaprakasha Nighantu===
Mentioned 2 types<ref>Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p.379.</ref>
# Shatavari – Asparagus racemosus Willd.
# Shatavari – Asparagus racemosus Willd.
# Mahashatavari – Asparagus sarmentosus Linn.
# Mahashatavari – Asparagus sarmentosus Linn.


==Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
==Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
Shatavari, Atirasa, Shatavirya, Bahusuta, Vari, Vira, Bhiru, Narayani
Shatavari, Atirasa, Shatavirya, Bahusuta, Vari, Vira, Bhiru, Narayani


==Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu3==
==Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu==
Shatavari, Bahusuta, Bhiru, Indivari, Vari, Narayani, Shatapadi, Shatavirya, Pivari
Shatavari, Bahusuta, Bhiru, Indivari, Vari, Narayani, Shatapadi, Shatavirya, Pivari
Mahashatavari – Shatamuli, Urdhvakantika, Sahasravirya, Hetu, Rushyaprokta, Mahodari
Mahashatavari – Shatamuli, Urdhvakantika, Sahasravirya, Hetu, Rushyaprokta, Mahodari<ref>Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p.379.</ref>
 


== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==
== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==
Line 81: Line 83:
|1
|1
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(7)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(7)
|Balya(tonic) mahakashay
|Balya(tonic) mahakashaya
|-
|-
|2
|2
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/65
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/65
|Anutaila dravya
|Anu taila dravya
|-
|-
|3
|3
Line 93: Line 95:
|4
|4
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/135
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/135
|Vaman dravyani(emesis dravya)
|Vamana dravyani(emesis dravya)
|-
|-
|5
|5
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/139
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/139
|Madhur skanda(group of sweet drugs)
|Madhura skandha(group of sweet drugs)
|-
|-
|6
|6
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/20
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/20
|Garbhasthapan dravya
|Garbhasthapana dravya
|-
|-
|7
|7
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/58
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/58
|Stanyadushti chikitsa- Dhatrikarma
|Stanyadushti(disease of vitiated breast milk) chikitsa- Dhatri karma
|-
|-
|8
|8
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 1/1/44
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 1/1/44
|In  formulation of brahma rasayana
|In  formulation of Brahma rasayana
|-
|-
|9
|9
Line 121: Line 123:
|11
|11
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/1/34
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/1/34
|Ingredient in Vajikaran Ghrit
|Ingredient in Vajikarana Ghrita
|-
|-
|12
|12
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/2/6
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/2/6
|Ingredient in Apatyakari Shashtikadi Gutika
|Ingredient in Apatyakari Shashtikadi Gutika
|-
|-
|13
|13
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/2/14
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/2/14
|Ingredient in Apatyakar Swaras
|Ingredient in Apatyakara Swaras
|-
|-
|14
|14
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/2/18
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/2/18
|Ingredient in Vrushya Kshir
|Ingredient in Vrushya Kshira
|-
|-
|15
|15
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/3/18
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/3/18
|Ingredient of  Vrushya shatavari Ghrit
|Ingredient of  Vrushya Shatavari Ghrita
|-
|-
|16
|16
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/4/28
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/4/28
|Ingredient in Apatyakar Ghrit
|Ingredient in Apatyakara Ghrita
|-
|-
|17
|17
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/250
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/250
|As an ingredient of Jeevantyadi anuvasana basti.
|As an ingredient of Jeevantyadi anuvasana basti
|-
|-
|18
|18
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/258
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 3/258
|As an ingredient of Chandanadhya taila.
|As an ingredient of Chandanadhya taila
|-
|-
|19
|19
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/123
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 5/123
|Ingredient in Drakshadya Ghrit for Pittaj Gulma
|Ingredient in Drakshadya Ghrita for Pittaja Gulma
|-
|-
|20
|20
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/145
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 7/145
|Ingredient in Mahatikta  Ghrit
|Ingredient in Mahatikta  Ghrita
|-
|-
|21
|21
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/79
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/79
|Ingredient in Shira-Pashva  –Ansha Shula nashak lepa
|Ingredient in Shira-Parshva –Ansa Shula nashak lepa
|-
|-
|22
|22
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/105
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 8/105
|Ghrit preparation in treatment of Daha
|Ghrita preparation in treatment of Daha(burning)
|-
|-
|23
|23
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/35
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/35
|Ingredient in Palankashadi  tail
|Ingredient in Palankashadi  taila
|-
|-
|24
|24
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/64
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 10/64
|Ingredient in Atattvabhinivesh nashak yog
|Ingredient in Atattvabhinivesha nashaka yoga
|-
|-
|25
|25
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 11/36
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 11/36
|Ingredient in Amrutprash Ghrit
|Ingredient in Amrutprasha Ghrita
|-
|-
|26
|26
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 11/46
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 11/46
|Ingredient in Shvadamshtradi  Ghrit
|Ingredient in Shvadamshtradi  Ghrita
|-
|-
|27
|27
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 11/66
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 11/66
|Ingredient in Chaturtha  Sarpigud
|Ingredient in Chaturtha  Sarpi guda
|-
|-
|28
|28
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/40
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/40
|As a ghrita dravya  
|As a ghrita dravya  
|-
|-
|29
|29
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/43
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 18/43
|As a ghrita dravya
|As a ghrita dravya
|-
|-
|30
|30
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/50
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/50
|As a yavagu dravya
|As a yavagu(gruel) dravya
|-
|-
|31
|31
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/78
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/78
|Use with paya as a ahara or ghrita  
|Use with paya(milk) as a ahara(food) or ghrita  
|-
|-
|32
|32
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/97
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 19/97
|As an ingredient of satavari ghrita.
|As an ingredient of Shatavari ghrita
|-
|-
|33
|33
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|34
|34
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/78
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/78
|As an ingredient  of yavaka pradeha.
|As an ingredient  of yavaka pradeha(external application)
|-
|-
|35
|35
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/79  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/79  
|As an ingredient  of Baladi alepa.
|As an ingredient  of Baladi alepa
|-
|-
|36
|36
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/90  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/90  
|For pradeha  prayoga in kaphaja visarpa.
|For pradeha  prayoga in kaphaja visarpa(herpes)
|-
|-
|37
|37
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/91
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/91
|For pradeha  prayoga in kaphaja visarpa.
|For pradeha  prayoga in kaphaja visarpa(herpes)
|-
|-
|38
|38
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/84
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 21/84
|For pradeha  prayoga in Vata-pittaja visarpa.
|For pradeha  prayoga in Vata-pittaja visarpa(herpes)
|-
|-
|39
|39
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/47
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/47
|As an ingredient of Vijayadi pralepa.
|As an ingredient of Vijayadi pralepa
|-
|-
|40
|40
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/75
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/75
|Used in shoola with sneha & sarkara.
|Used in shoola with sneha & sharkara
|-
|-
|41
|41
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/110  
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/110  
|Use for nadi sveda.
|Use for nadi sweda(fomentation)
|-
|-
|42
|42
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/160
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/160
|As an ingredient of Amrutadi taila.
|As an ingredient of Amrutadi taila
|-
|-
|43
|43
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/52
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/52
|Used as Shaka dravya.
|Used as Shaka dravya
|-
|-
|44
|44
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/56
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/56
|As an ingredient of Baladi Ghrita.
|As an ingredient of Baladi Ghrita
|-
|-
|45
|45
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/58
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/58
|As an ingredient of Parushaka Ghrita.
|As an ingredient of Parushaka Ghrita
|-
|-
|46
|46
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/61
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/61
|As an ingredient of Jeevaniya Ghrita.
|As an ingredient of Jeevaniya Ghrita
|-
|-
|47
|47
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/72
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/72
|As an ingredient of Jeevakadi mahasneha.
|As an ingredient of Jeevakadi mahasneha
|-
|-
|48
|48
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/76, 77
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/76, 77
|As an ingredient of Sthiradi Ghrita/Taila.
|As an ingredient of Sthiradi Ghrita/Taila
|-
|-
|49
|49
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/81
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/81
|As an ingredient of Baladi yoga.
|As an ingredient of Baladi yoga
|-
|-
|50
|50
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/92
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/92
|As an ingredient of Madhuparnyadi taila.
|As an ingredient of Madhuparnyadi taila
|-
|-
|51
|51
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 30/53
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 30/53
|As an ingredient of Kashmaryadi ghrita, used in the  treatment of Vataja yoni.
|As an ingredient of Kashmaryadi ghrita, used in the  treatment of Vataja yoni
|}
|}


{| class="wikitable"
==Dose==
* Churna – 3 – 6 gm<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume IV:50.</ref>


==Important formulations==
As per A.P.I.<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume IV:50.</ref>
* Brahma Rasayana
* Puga Khanda
* Narasimha Churna
* Mahanarayana Taila
* Shatavari Guda
* Saubhagya Shunthi
* Bruhat Chhagaladi Ghrita
* Shatavari Ghrita
* Shatavari Kalpa
* Ashvagandharishta


==Current availability ==
==Current availability ==
Available
Available
* In India –
Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Jharkhand, Tamil nadu, Andhra Pradesh
* Out of India –
Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia
==Current researches ==
==Current researches ==
[[Category: Database of herbs and minerals | Herbs]]
 
  This article is under development ..
== Botanical profile and nomenclature ==
* '''Botanical Name:''' ''Asparagus racemosus'' Willd.
* '''Family:''' [[Asparagaceae]] (formerly classified under [[Liliaceae]])
* '''Vernacular Names:''' Shatavari ([[Sanskrit]]/[[Hindi]]), Satamuli ([[Bengali language|Bengali]]), Kurilo ([[Nepali language|Nepali]])
* '''Plant Part Used:''' Dried tuberous roots
* '''Habitat & Distribution:''' Spiny climbing under-shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of India, Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa.<ref name="Bopana2007">{{cite journal |vauthors=Bopana N, Saxena S |title=Asparagus racemosus—Ethnopharmacological evaluation and conservation needs |journal=Journal of Ethnopharmacology |volume=110 |issue=1 |pages=1–15 |year=2007 |doi=10.1016/j.jep.2007.01.001}}</ref><ref name="Alok2013">{{cite journal |vauthors=Alok S, Jain SK, Verma A, Kumar M, Mahor A, Sabharwal M |title=Plant profile, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari): A review |journal=Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease |volume=3 |issue=3 |pages=242–251 |year=2013 |doi=10.1016/s2222-1808(13)60049-3}}</ref>
 
== Phytochemical profile ==
The primary therapeutic activity of ''Asparagus racemosus'' stems from its rich mixture of steroidal [[saponin]]s and secondary metabolites concentrated within the tuberous roots.<ref name="Alok2013" />
 
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Phytochemical Profile of ''Asparagus racemosus''
|-
! Chemical Class !! Key Bioactive Compounds !! Biological Significance
|-
| '''Steroidal Saponins''' || Shatavarins (I–IV), Immunoside, Sarsasapogenin || Phytoestrogenic, galactagogue, and immunomodulatory activity
|-
| '''Alkaloids''' || Asparagamine A (pyrrolizidine-type) || Anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities
|-
| '''Flavonoids & Isoflavones''' || Rutin, Quercetin, Hyperoside, 8-methoxy-isoflavones || Antioxidant and neuroprotective properties
|-
| '''Polysaccharides''' || Mucilage, complex oligosaccharides || Gastroprotective and demulcent effects
|-
| '''Trace Minerals''' || Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Calcium (Ca) || Nutritional support and metabolic cofactor functions
|}
 
== Pharmacological actions and therapeutic efficacy ==
 
=== Galactagogue effect and lactation enhancement ===
''Asparagus racemosus'' is recognized in [[Ayurveda|Ayurvedic medicine]] as a primary [[galactagogue]]. Modern clinical trials support its ability to enhance breast milk production by stimulating systemic [[prolactin]] release and promoting the growth of mammary lobuloalveolar tissues.<ref name="Alok2013" /><ref name="Birla2022">{{cite journal |vauthors=Birla A, Satia M, Shah R, et al. |title=Postpartum Use of Shavari Bar® Improves Breast Milk Output: A Double-Blind, Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Study |journal=Cureus |volume=14 |issue=8 |pages=e26831 |year=2022 |doi=10.7759/cureus.26831}}</ref>
 
* '''Mechanism of Action:''' Bioactive saponins (specifically Shatavarin I–IV) modulate hormone axes to trigger endogenous prolactin release, leading to alveolar hyperplasia and increased milk synthesis.
* '''Clinical Evidence:''' Randomized double-blind clinical trials evaluating postpartum women administered ''A. racemosus'' root preparations demonstrated a statistically significant increase in maternal serum prolactin levels, enhanced total breast milk output, and proportional infant weight gain compared to placebo groups.<ref name="Birla2022" />
 
{{quote|text=The galactagogue action of Shatavari is attributed to its dual hormonal regulation—boosting prolactin expression while providing systemic antioxidant support to lactating tissue.}}
 
=== Female reproductive health and endocrine modulation ===
The root extract exhibits [[phytoestrogen]]ic properties due to structural similarities between Shatavarins/isoflavones and 17β-[[estradiol]], allowing selective binding to [[estrogen receptor]]s (<math>\text{ER}\alpha</math> and <math>\text{ER}\beta</math>).<ref name="Alok2013" />
 
* '''Dysmenorrhea & Infertility:''' Helps regulate [[gonadotropin]] release, supports [[folliculogenesis]], and mitigates uterine hyper-reactivity.<ref name="Bopana2007" />
* '''Menopausal Symptom Relief:''' Studies demonstrate that ''A. racemosus'' root extracts alleviate vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats) and mood fluctuations during pre-, peri-, and post-menopausal phases through partial estrogenic receptor modulation without inducing unwanted endometrial proliferation.<ref name="Alok2013" />
 
=== Adaptogenic, neuroprotective and anxiolytic properties ===
Classified as a ''[[Rasayana]]'' (rejuvenative tonic), Shatavari functions as a systemic [[adaptogen]] by buffering the central nervous system against physical and emotional stressors.<ref name="Bopana2007" /><ref name="Singh2023">{{cite journal |vauthors=Singh N, Garg M, Prajapati P, et al. |title=Adaptogenic property of Asparagus racemosus: Future trends and prospects |journal=Heliyon |volume=9 |issue=4 |pages=e14932 |year=2023 |doi=10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14932}}</ref>
 
<pre>
                            [ Environmental / Physiological Stress ]
                                                │
                                                ▼
                            [ Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis ]
                                                │
                          ┌─────────────────────┴─────────────────────┐
                          ▼                                          ▼
            (Unmodulated Cortisol Surge)            (Modulated via A. racemosus)
                          │                                          │
                          ▼                                          ▼
            [ Neuronal Cell Loss & ]                [ Upregulation of BDNF & ]
            [ Memory Impairment    ]                [ GABAergic Homeostasis  ]
</pre>
 
* '''Neuroprotection:''' ''In vivo'' models show that root extracts protect hippocampal sub-regions (<math>\text{CA1}</math>, <math>\text{CA3}</math>, and dentate gyrus) from stress-induced cell degeneration by reducing lipid peroxidation and restoring endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as [[superoxide dismutase]] (<math>\text{SOD}</math>) and [[glutathione]] (<math>\text{GSH}</math>).<ref name="Saxena2007">{{cite journal |vauthors=Saxena G, Singh M, Meena P, et al. |title=Neuroprotective Effects of Asparagus Racemosus Linn Root Extract: An Experimental and Clinical Evidence |journal=Annals of Neurosciences |volume=14 |issue=3 |pages=57–63 |year=2007 |doi=10.5214/ans.0972.7531.2007.140302}}</ref><ref name="Singh2023" />
* '''Cognitive & Anticonvulsant Support:''' Network pharmacology studies demonstrate that key phytoconstituents target neuro-inflammatory cascade proteins (such as <math>\text{TNF}-\alpha</math>, <math>\text{CASP3}</math>, and <math>\text{PTGS2}</math>), providing protective effects in neurodegenerative and seizure models.<ref name="Kaur2023">{{cite journal |vauthors=Kaur B, Kumar S, Kaur A, Goel RK |title=A network pharmacology approach to explore pharmacological mechanisms of Asparagus racemosus for ameliorative effect in epilepsy and comorbid progressive memory dysfunction |journal=In Silico Pharmacology |volume=11 |issue=1 |pages=28 |year=2023 |doi=10.1007/s40203-023-00169-x}}</ref>
 
=== Gastroprotective and anti-ulcer activity ===
''A. racemosus'' root extract acts as a cytoprotective agent within the gastrointestinal tract.<ref name="Alok2013" />
 
* '''Mechanism:''' Rather than purely suppressing gastric acid secretion, it enhances mucosal resistance by increasing mucosal secretion, extending the lifespan of mucosal cells, and reducing gastric hypermotility.
* '''Therapeutic Application:''' Effective in managing [[duodenal ulcer]]s, hyperacidity, and stress-induced gastric mucosal lesions.<ref name="Bopana2007" /><ref name="Alok2013" />
 
=== Immunomodulatory activity ===
Shatavari saponins, notably Immunoside and Shatavarin IV, act as biological response modifiers.<ref name="Alok2013" />
 
* Potentiates both humoral and cell-mediated immunity by enhancing macrophage phagocytic activity.
* Stimulates leucocytosis and restores immune equilibrium during stress-induced immunosuppression.<ref name="Bopana2007" />
 
== Dosage, safety, and toxicology ==
 
=== Standard clinical dosage ===
* '''Crude Root Powder (''Churna''):''' 3–6 g/day in divided doses, traditionally taken with milk or warm water.
* '''Standardized Extract (Water/Ethanol):''' 500–1000 mg/day (standardized to steroidal saponins).
 
=== Toxicology and contraindications ===
* '''Toxicity:''' Animal studies demonstrate high safety margins with no significant acute or sub-acute oral toxicity observed at standard therapeutic ranges.<ref name="Bopana2007" />
* '''Adverse Effects:''' Mild, transient gastrointestinal discomfort may occur in sensitive individuals.
* '''Precautions:''' Patients with estrogen-sensitive conditions (e.g., specific breast or uterine malignancies) should consult a physician prior to high-dose standardized extract therapy due to its phytoestrogenic receptor interaction profile.
 
== Summary and clinical outlook ==
''Asparagus racemosus'' is an adaptogenic herb with demonstrated clinical applications in female reproductive care, galactagogue support, gastroprotection, and neuroprotection. Modern pharmacological research confirms that its complex array of steroidal saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids underpins its traditional use as a multi-system restorative agent.
 
== See also ==
* [[Ayurveda]]
https://cb.imsc.res.in/imppat/phytochemical/Asparagus%20racemosus
 
== References ==
{{reflist}}
 
 
[[Category:Database of herbs and minerals|Herbs]]

Latest revision as of 05:23, 27 July 2026

Asparagus racemosus Willd.

Shatavari
Section/Chapter Herb database/Shatavari
Botanical name(s) Asparagus racemosus Willd.
Family Liliaceae
Availability Available
Contributors Team Dravyaguna
Year of publication 2026
Publisher Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre
DOI Awaited

Asparagus racemosus (commonly known as Shatavari) is a species of plant in the family Asparagaceae.

English name

Wild Asparagus

Therapeutic Uses

Acid Peptic Disorders (Amlapitta), Haemorrhoids (Arsha), Diarrhoea (Atisara), Abdominal lump (Gulma), Kshaya, Bleeding diarrhoea (Raktisara), Intrinsic haemorrhage (Raktapitta), Raktavikara, Gout (Vatarakta), Herpes zoster (Visarpa), Parinama Shoola, Mutrarakta, Vatajvara, Hoarseness of voice (Svarabheda), Night blindness (Naktandhya), Sutika Roga, Stanya Dosha, Stanya Kshaya[1]

Other varieties / other botanical names

  • Asparagus rigidulus Nakai
  • Protasparagus racemosus (Willd.) Oberm.

Types

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu

Mentioned 2 types[2]

  1. Shatavari – Asparagus racemosus Willd.
  2. Mahashatavari – Asparagus sarmentosus Linn.

Synonyms in Charak Samhita

Shatavari, Atirasa, Shatavirya, Bahusuta, Vari, Vira, Bhiru, Narayani

Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu

Shatavari, Bahusuta, Bhiru, Indivari, Vari, Narayani, Shatapadi, Shatavirya, Pivari Mahashatavari – Shatamuli, Urdhvakantika, Sahasravirya, Hetu, Rushyaprokta, Mahodari[3]

Ayurvedic pharmacological properties

Properties
Sr.no. Pharmacological criteria Properties
1 Taste (rasa) Sweet (madhura), Bitter (tikta)
2 Potency (veerya) Cold (sheeta)
3 Post digestion effect (vipaka) Sweet (madhura)
4 Qualities (guna) Heavy (guru), Unctuous (snigdha)
5 Actions (karma) Pacify Vata and Pitta

Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions

Herbs and their activities
Sr.no. Reference in Charak Samhita Activity
1 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(7) Balya(tonic) mahakashaya
2 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 5/65 Anu taila dravya
3 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 27/107 Shaka Varga(group of vegetables)
4 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 8/135 Vamana dravyani(emesis dravya)
5 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 8/139 Madhura skandha(group of sweet drugs)
6 Cha.Sa.Sharira Sthana 8/20 Garbhasthapana dravya
7 Cha.Sa.Sharira Sthana 8/58 Stanyadushti(disease of vitiated breast milk) chikitsa- Dhatri karma
8 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 1/1/44 In formulation of Brahma rasayana
9 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/1/25 Ingredient in Bruhaniya Gutika
10 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/1/28 Ingredient in Bruhaniya Gutika
11 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/1/34 Ingredient in Vajikarana Ghrita
12 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/2/6 Ingredient in Apatyakari Shashtikadi Gutika
13 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/2/14 Ingredient in Apatyakara Swaras
14 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/2/18 Ingredient in Vrushya Kshira
15 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/3/18 Ingredient of  Vrushya Shatavari Ghrita
16 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/4/28 Ingredient in Apatyakara Ghrita
17 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/250 As an ingredient of Jeevantyadi anuvasana basti
18 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/258 As an ingredient of Chandanadhya taila
19 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/123 Ingredient in Drakshadya Ghrita for Pittaja Gulma
20 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/145 Ingredient in Mahatikta Ghrita
21 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 8/79 Ingredient in Shira-Parshva –Ansa Shula nashak lepa
22 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 8/105 Ghrita preparation in treatment of Daha(burning)
23 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 10/35 Ingredient in Palankashadi taila
24 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 10/64 Ingredient in Atattvabhinivesha nashaka yoga
25 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 11/36 Ingredient in Amrutprasha Ghrita
26 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 11/46 Ingredient in Shvadamshtradi Ghrita
27 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 11/66 Ingredient in Chaturtha Sarpi guda
28 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/40 As a ghrita dravya
29 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/43 As a ghrita dravya
30 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/50 As a yavagu(gruel) dravya
31 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/78 Use with paya(milk) as a ahara(food) or ghrita
32 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/97 As an ingredient of Shatavari ghrita
33 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/62 As a anuvasana dravya
34 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 21/78 As an ingredient of yavaka pradeha(external application)
35 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 21/79 As an ingredient of Baladi alepa
36 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 21/90 For pradeha prayoga in kaphaja visarpa(herpes)
37 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 21/91 For pradeha prayoga in kaphaja visarpa(herpes)
38 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 21/84 For pradeha prayoga in Vata-pittaja visarpa(herpes)
39 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 25/47 As an ingredient of Vijayadi pralepa
40 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 25/75 Used in shoola with sneha & sharkara
41 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/110 Use for nadi sweda(fomentation)
42 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/160 As an ingredient of Amrutadi taila
43 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/52 Used as Shaka dravya
44 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/56 As an ingredient of Baladi Ghrita
45 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/58 As an ingredient of Parushaka Ghrita
46 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/61 As an ingredient of Jeevaniya Ghrita
47 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/72 As an ingredient of Jeevakadi mahasneha
48 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/76, 77 As an ingredient of Sthiradi Ghrita/Taila
49 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/81 As an ingredient of Baladi yoga
50 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/92 As an ingredient of Madhuparnyadi taila
51 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/53 As an ingredient of Kashmaryadi ghrita, used in the treatment of Vataja yoni

Dose

  • Churna – 3 – 6 gm[4]

Important formulations

As per A.P.I.[5]

  • Brahma Rasayana
  • Puga Khanda
  • Narasimha Churna
  • Mahanarayana Taila
  • Shatavari Guda
  • Saubhagya Shunthi
  • Bruhat Chhagaladi Ghrita
  • Shatavari Ghrita
  • Shatavari Kalpa
  • Ashvagandharishta

Current availability

Available

  • In India –

Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Jharkhand, Tamil nadu, Andhra Pradesh

  • Out of India –

Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia

Current researches

Botanical profile and nomenclature

  • Botanical Name: Asparagus racemosus Willd.
  • Family: Asparagaceae (formerly classified under Liliaceae)
  • Vernacular Names: Shatavari (Sanskrit/Hindi), Satamuli (Bengali), Kurilo (Nepali)
  • Plant Part Used: Dried tuberous roots
  • Habitat & Distribution: Spiny climbing under-shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of India, Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa.[6][7]

Phytochemical profile

The primary therapeutic activity of Asparagus racemosus stems from its rich mixture of steroidal saponins and secondary metabolites concentrated within the tuberous roots.[7]

Phytochemical Profile of Asparagus racemosus
Chemical Class Key Bioactive Compounds Biological Significance
Steroidal Saponins Shatavarins (I–IV), Immunoside, Sarsasapogenin Phytoestrogenic, galactagogue, and immunomodulatory activity
Alkaloids Asparagamine A (pyrrolizidine-type) Anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities
Flavonoids & Isoflavones Rutin, Quercetin, Hyperoside, 8-methoxy-isoflavones Antioxidant and neuroprotective properties
Polysaccharides Mucilage, complex oligosaccharides Gastroprotective and demulcent effects
Trace Minerals Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Calcium (Ca) Nutritional support and metabolic cofactor functions

Pharmacological actions and therapeutic efficacy

Galactagogue effect and lactation enhancement

Asparagus racemosus is recognized in Ayurvedic medicine as a primary galactagogue. Modern clinical trials support its ability to enhance breast milk production by stimulating systemic prolactin release and promoting the growth of mammary lobuloalveolar tissues.[7][8]

  • Mechanism of Action: Bioactive saponins (specifically Shatavarin I–IV) modulate hormone axes to trigger endogenous prolactin release, leading to alveolar hyperplasia and increased milk synthesis.
  • Clinical Evidence: Randomized double-blind clinical trials evaluating postpartum women administered A. racemosus root preparations demonstrated a statistically significant increase in maternal serum prolactin levels, enhanced total breast milk output, and proportional infant weight gain compared to placebo groups.[8]

The galactagogue action of Shatavari is attributed to its dual hormonal regulation—boosting prolactin expression while providing systemic antioxidant support to lactating tissue.

Female reproductive health and endocrine modulation

The root extract exhibits phytoestrogenic properties due to structural similarities between Shatavarins/isoflavones and 17β-estradiol, allowing selective binding to estrogen receptors (<math>\text{ER}\alpha</math> and <math>\text{ER}\beta</math>).[7]

  • Dysmenorrhea & Infertility: Helps regulate gonadotropin release, supports folliculogenesis, and mitigates uterine hyper-reactivity.[6]
  • Menopausal Symptom Relief: Studies demonstrate that A. racemosus root extracts alleviate vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats) and mood fluctuations during pre-, peri-, and post-menopausal phases through partial estrogenic receptor modulation without inducing unwanted endometrial proliferation.[7]

Adaptogenic, neuroprotective and anxiolytic properties

Classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenative tonic), Shatavari functions as a systemic adaptogen by buffering the central nervous system against physical and emotional stressors.[6][9] 

                             [ Environmental / Physiological Stress ]
                                                │
                                                ▼
                             [ Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis ]
                                                │
                          ┌─────────────────────┴─────────────────────┐
                          ▼                                           ▼
            (Unmodulated Cortisol Surge)             (Modulated via A. racemosus)
                          │                                           │
                          ▼                                           ▼
             [ Neuronal Cell Loss & ]                 [ Upregulation of BDNF & ]
             [ Memory Impairment    ]                 [ GABAergic Homeostasis  ]
  • Neuroprotection: In vivo models show that root extracts protect hippocampal sub-regions (<math>\text{CA1}</math>, <math>\text{CA3}</math>, and dentate gyrus) from stress-induced cell degeneration by reducing lipid peroxidation and restoring endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (<math>\text{SOD}</math>) and glutathione (<math>\text{GSH}</math>).[10][9]
  • Cognitive & Anticonvulsant Support: Network pharmacology studies demonstrate that key phytoconstituents target neuro-inflammatory cascade proteins (such as <math>\text{TNF}-\alpha</math>, <math>\text{CASP3}</math>, and <math>\text{PTGS2}</math>), providing protective effects in neurodegenerative and seizure models.[11]

Gastroprotective and anti-ulcer activity

A. racemosus root extract acts as a cytoprotective agent within the gastrointestinal tract.[7]

  • Mechanism: Rather than purely suppressing gastric acid secretion, it enhances mucosal resistance by increasing mucosal secretion, extending the lifespan of mucosal cells, and reducing gastric hypermotility.
  • Therapeutic Application: Effective in managing duodenal ulcers, hyperacidity, and stress-induced gastric mucosal lesions.[6][7]

Immunomodulatory activity

Shatavari saponins, notably Immunoside and Shatavarin IV, act as biological response modifiers.[7]

  • Potentiates both humoral and cell-mediated immunity by enhancing macrophage phagocytic activity.
  • Stimulates leucocytosis and restores immune equilibrium during stress-induced immunosuppression.[6]

Dosage, safety, and toxicology

Standard clinical dosage

  • Crude Root Powder (Churna): 3–6 g/day in divided doses, traditionally taken with milk or warm water.
  • Standardized Extract (Water/Ethanol): 500–1000 mg/day (standardized to steroidal saponins).

Toxicology and contraindications

  • Toxicity: Animal studies demonstrate high safety margins with no significant acute or sub-acute oral toxicity observed at standard therapeutic ranges.[6]
  • Adverse Effects: Mild, transient gastrointestinal discomfort may occur in sensitive individuals.
  • Precautions: Patients with estrogen-sensitive conditions (e.g., specific breast or uterine malignancies) should consult a physician prior to high-dose standardized extract therapy due to its phytoestrogenic receptor interaction profile.

Summary and clinical outlook

Asparagus racemosus is an adaptogenic herb with demonstrated clinical applications in female reproductive care, galactagogue support, gastroprotection, and neuroprotection. Modern pharmacological research confirms that its complex array of steroidal saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids underpins its traditional use as a multi-system restorative agent.

See also

https://cb.imsc.res.in/imppat/phytochemical/Asparagus%20racemosus

References

  1. ↑ Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume IV:50.
  2. ↑ Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p.379.
  3. ↑ Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Guduchyadi Varga, p.379.
  4. ↑ Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume IV:50.
  5. ↑ Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume IV:50.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 Bopana N, Saxena S (2007). "Asparagus racemosus—Ethnopharmacological evaluation and conservation needs". Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 110 (1): 1–15. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2007.01.001. 
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 Alok S, Jain SK, Verma A, Kumar M, Mahor A, Sabharwal M (2013). "Plant profile, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari): A review". Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease. 3 (3): 242–251. doi:10.1016/s2222-1808(13)60049-3. 
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Birla A, Satia M, Shah R, et al. (2022). "Postpartum Use of Shavari Bar® Improves Breast Milk Output: A Double-Blind, Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Study". Cureus. 14 (8): e26831. doi:10.7759/cureus.26831. 
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 Singh N, Garg M, Prajapati P, et al. (2023). "Adaptogenic property of Asparagus racemosus: Future trends and prospects". Heliyon. 9 (4): e14932. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14932. 
  10. ↑ Saxena G, Singh M, Meena P, et al. (2007). "Neuroprotective Effects of Asparagus Racemosus Linn Root Extract: An Experimental and Clinical Evidence". Annals of Neurosciences. 14 (3): 57–63. doi:10.5214/ans.0972.7531.2007.140302. 
  11. ↑ Kaur B, Kumar S, Kaur A, Goel RK (2023). "A network pharmacology approach to explore pharmacological mechanisms of Asparagus racemosus for ameliorative effect in epilepsy and comorbid progressive memory dysfunction". In Silico Pharmacology. 11 (1): 28. doi:10.1007/s40203-023-00169-x. 
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