Botanical Overview
Latin name: Asparagus racemosus
Family: Asparagaceae
Parts used: Root
Common names: Shatavari, Satavar, Wild asparagus
Energetics
Asparagus racemosus is considered cooling and moistening in nature, with bitter and sweet tastes. It is tonifying and has an ascending directionality affecting the qi, fluids, and essence.
Primary Actions
- Adaptogen
- Galactagogue
- Demulcent
- Antioxidant
- Immunomodulator
- Anti-inflammatory
- Nervine tonic
Indications
Western
- Fatigue
- Digestive upset
- Inflammation
- Immunodeficiency
- Menopausal symptoms
Syndromes
- Chronic stress
- Immune weakness
- Gastric ulcers
- Menstrual irregularities
- Infertility
TCM
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
Syndromes
- Lung Yin deficiency
- Kidney Yin deficiency
Ayurveda
- Vaginal dryness
- Excess heat
- Weak digestion
- Excess pitta symptoms
Syndromes
- Pitta imbalance
- Ojas depletion
- Female reproductive disorders
- General debility
Unani
- General debility
- Reproductive weakness
Syndromes
- Spleen weakness
- Hormonal imbalance
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include steroidal saponins, shatavarins, polyphenols, and flavonoids, which contribute to its adaptogenic, immunomodulatory, and nourishing properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 5-10 g root daily
- Powder: 3-6 g daily
- Tincture (1:5, 50% ethanol): 2-4 mL, 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used as directed. Caution is advised during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester due to limited safety data. Use cautiously with hormone-sensitive conditions and monitor when combined with hormone therapies or immunosuppressants. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers identified with sufficient credible sources.
Selected References
- Pharmacological properties of Asparagus racemosus: A review – Vaidya A.D.B. et al., 2011
- Asparagus racemosus – Shatavari, Plants For A Future database
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Volume 2: Asparagus racemosus, WHO, 1999
- Asparagus racemosus: biochemical and clinical perspectives – Bensky D., Gamble A., 2004