Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus) - The Best Female Reproductive Tonic

Abstract

It is recommended by the World health organization (WHO) the most of the world’s population depends on herbal medicine for their health care. Shatavari, Asparagus racemosus is one of the most significant restorative plant employed by Ayurvedic Vaidyas from ancient times. This herbal plant has wide selection of biological activities and described as a Rasayan in Ayurvedic literatures. Root is the most used part of Shatavari by Ayurvedic Vaidyas. It is one of the most common herbal plant used worldwide and possess various chemical constituents such as Racemoside A, B, C, Shatavarins, Asparanin A, Immunoside, 27 α-dimethyl-1β, 2β,3β-trihydroxy-25-spirost-4-en-19β-oic, 27 α-dimethyl-1β, 2β,3β-trihydroxy-25-spirost-4-en-19β-oic and many others. It is described as a tonic and have lactogenic properties. It has an extensive use in Nervine disorders, Acid peptic diseases, several contagious ailments and as a immunomodulant. It is primarily used in female ailments mainly as galactagogic and several menstrual problems. The chemical constituents of Asparagus racemosus have many pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, wound healing effect, antidepressant, anti-anxiety, antifertility and also skin cancer, pigmentation and many other. Much scientific research on Asparagus racemosus has been conducted over the last years to investigate chemical and pharmacological properties. In this review, the general description, phytochemicals, pharmacological properties, ayurvedic properties and folk uses of Asparagus racemosus are briefly explained. Keywords: Shatavari, Ayurveda, Saponins, Menstrual disorders, Anti-ulcer, Immunomodulatory.