The ‘Herb That Gives 100 Husbands’, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is a wild Asparagus that is also considered one of the most rejuvenating and adaptogenic herbs in Ayurvedic medicine.
It looks Asparagus-like, forming shoots from a tuberous root system with needle-like leaves. As the season continues, producing small white flowers followed by blackish-purple berries.
Now considered endangered in its native habitat due to overharvesting, Shatavari grows in rocky soils at high elevations throughout the Himalayas.
Shatavari is sometimes translated as “She who possesses 100 husbands” due to its reputation and use for enhancing fertility in both women and men.
It is the main female rejuvenating tonic in Ayurvedic medicine; whereas Ashwagandha is the male. Despite this general reputation, it is noted to be useful for both men and women.
It is a bitter-sweet and cooling herb that is used for treating fever and internal heat.
In scientific investigation, Shatavari has been found to have antiulcer, antioxidant, antidiarrheal, antidiabetic, cardiovascular effects, effects on sexual behavior, hormones and immunomodulatory activities.
As it is currently gaining popularity, there are several branded extracts being launched onto the market with clinical validation—mainly for hormone balancing and women’s health, but also for it’s adaptogenic properties..
In Ayurveda, it is used as a versatile female tonic, for infertility, increasing libido, reducing inflammation and moistening dry tissues of sexual organs. Due to its cooling nature, it is also useful for hot flashes.
Shatavari is also used for a general state of stress and immune disorders that are aggravated by stress—one of the predominant adaptogens.
Shatavari is well known as a rasayana herb used to prevent aging, increase longevity, improve cognitive function, vigor and vitality to the body.
The Next Big Botanical: Shatavari
