Ayurvedic Herb Profile
Shatavari
शतावरी
Asparagus racemosus
Nourishing rejuvenative herb that supports hormonal balance, vitality, and reproductive health. Balances Pitta and Vata.
Reviewed by Eileen Sibley · M.S. Ayurveda candidate, MIU ·
The name Shatavari translates to "she who possesses a hundred husbands" — a poetic nod to its legendary capacity to support women through every phase of life. Considered the queen of female herbs in Ayurveda, it is also deeply nourishing for men and is one of the great Rasayanas of the materia medica.
Educational Information — Not Medical Advice
Please read before using these herbs
The herbal information on this site is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new herbal regimen — especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medication, or managing a medical condition.
Nothing on these pages creates a practitioner-client relationship. To get a personalized recommendation, please book a consultation with Eileen. Full terms are in our Terms of Use.
Dosha Effect
Calms Pitta and Vata; may increase Kapha in excess. Cooling, sweet, and unctuous.
Common Forms
- Root powder
- Capsule
- Medicated ghee
- Liquid extract
Traditional Ayurvedic Uses
What does Ayurveda say about Shatavari?
- Nourishing the reproductive tissues (Shukra Dhatu) in both sexes
- Supporting women through menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause
- Cooling internal heat — helpful for ulcers and hyperacidity
- Building strength after illness, exhaustion, or grief
- Lubricating dry tissues — skin, lungs, joints
Modern Research Support
What does modern research show about Shatavari?
- Small clinical studies suggest support for healthy lactation in nursing mothers
- Preclinical research suggests adaptogenic and immune-modulating activity
- Shatavarin saponins are under investigation for effects on reproductive and digestive health
How to Take
How do you take Shatavari?
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of root powder into warm milk with a touch of honey, taken in the morning or evening. Capsules and ghee preparations are also widely used. Effects build gradually — give it 6–8 weeks of consistent use.
Cautions & Considerations
What are the cautions for Shatavari?
- Has phytoestrogenic activity in preclinical studies — consult a physician before use if you have a history of estrogen-sensitive cancer (breast, uterine, ovarian) or active uterine fibroids
- Some people are allergic to asparagus — patch-test if uncertain
- May interact with diuretic and lithium medications
- May increase Kapha — watch for sluggishness if used in excess
- Traditionally used during pregnancy under practitioner guidance, but modern safety data is limited — work with a qualified provider
References
Where do these claims come from?
- Sharma S, et al. (1996) Randomized controlled trial of Asparagus racemosus on lactation. Indian J Med Res. PMID 8979551
- Gupta M, Shaw B. (2011) A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial for Evaluation of Galactogogue Activity of Asparagus racemosus. Iran J Pharm Res. PMC3869575
- NIH LactMed: Asparagus racemosus. NBK501813
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