Shatavari, also called Indian asparagus, has always been used in Ayurveda for the well-being of women. It is said not only to increase fertility and act as an aphrodisiac, but also to have a rejuvenating effect. But men can also draw from the positive effects of this plant. What makes Shatavari so special, how it works and how you can best take it, you can find out here.
What is Shatavari?
Shatavari is a small, thorny bush that is mainly native to India and the Himalayas. The plant belongs to the asparagus family and is therefore also called wild asparagus or Indian asparagus. Its botanical name is Asparagus racemosus.
While the plant is notable for its beautiful white flowers and needle-shaped leaves, it is mainly the Shatavari root that is used in Ayurveda. The name "Shatavari" means something like "a woman who has 100 men". So, as the name already suggests, wild asparagus is traditionally used by women to increase fertility. However, both sexescan ultimately benefitfrom its many positive properties.
Shatavari: Effect
Wild asparagus has been used in Ayurveda for centuries for health purposes. It is mainly known as a fertility tonic for women and men. But it also strengthens the kapha dosha and helps to dampen the erratic and hot temper of vata and pitta. In this way, it is particularly good for body and mind and brings healing energy and balance.
Calming and analgesicWildasparagus is mainly used for calming, as it calms the unsteady Vata dosha.
Vata dosha. Thus, it has an anxiety-relieving and nerve-calming effect and ensures a restful and relaxed night's sleep. In Ayurvedic medicine, Shatavari is therefore traditionally used for sleep disorders or pain. It helps the mind to cope better with stress and to calm down more easilyagain.
For intestinal calming
Shatavari is not only good for the nerves, but is also used for intestinal calming. It acts as a mucous membrane protector and provides pleasant and quick relief from heartburn. Due to its Kapha-increasing effect, it also stimulates the appetite and digestion. This is how your intestines feel good all around!
A true fountain of youth
The plant also has a rejuvenating effect. Thanks to its moisture-retaining properties, it counteracts age-related drying of the tissue and can thus prevent signs of ageing. Who needs a fountain of youth when this root is available?
Shatavari: a blessing for women
Shatavari has a very special relationship with women and has always been used in Ayurveda for their well-being. It has a calming effect on menstrual cramps and helps regulate the menstrual cycle and inhibit labour pains. However, the root is also beneficial for many other types of female discomfort.
Shatavari for childbearing
Many women who have had problems conceiving are said to have had good experiences with taking Shatavari. In Ayurveda, Indian asparagus is a time-honoured remedy for those who do not wish to have children. It is said to increase fertility and also has an aphrodisiac effect. It not only strengthens the libido, but also the reproductive tissue and rebalances the hormones.
But even after pregnancy, Shatavari can continue to support new mothers. Through its moisturising properties, it promotes milk production and protects the uterus and ovaries from inflammation.
Shatavari in the menopause
The female body undergoes various changes in the course of a woman's life. From an Ayurvedic point of view, the Pitta phase begins in girls from the first menstrual period in puberty and lasts until menopause. During menopause, however, the body enters the Vata phase, which represents movement, imbalance and restlessness.
Many women have a hard time with the changes during this time. Some feel anxious, nervous or even a little depressed due to the excess of Vata. Here it is important to respond to the changes in the body and to calm down the Vata. Taking Shatavari can help menopausal women find their centre again. Due to its moisturising and cooling properties, it is beneficial for typical menopausal complaints such as dryness and heat.
So in this way, women of all ages can derive vitality and kaft from taking Shatavari root.
Shatavari for men
Indian asparagus is mainly used as an all-rounder for women's problems, but that does not mean that men do not also benefit from it. The plant can increase sexual vitality in men. Above all, it can counteract impotence or a decline in libido. It is also said to increase sperm count and is good against inflammation in the reproductive system. In this respect, the plant is similar to ashwagandha in its effect.
Side effects of Shatavari
Basically, taking Shatavari is safe and there are no known side effects. If you are allergic to asparagus, however, you should also avoid wild asparagus, because otherwise the same allergic reactions could occur.
As the root increases Kapha dosha, you may also gain a little weight. If you already have an excess of kapha, we would advise you not to take it. There is no research on taking it during pregnancy. Even though there are no known negative effects, if in doubt, it is better not to take the plant when you are pregnant.
Tips for intake
If you are now impressed by the positive properties of Indian asparagus, you can see for yourself. Shatavari is usually taken in powder form or as a drink. This is especially quick to prepare and you only need:
- 1 tsp Shatavari powder
- 200 ml plant milk
The milk is simply boiled, the powder stirred in and then the drink can be enjoyed. If you want to support the effect, you can also add a teaspoon of ghee and sharkara.
But perhaps a Shatavari tea would be more to your liking? In that case, simply replace the milk with hot water. If you are in a hurry, you can also take Shatavari capsules. The dose for the capsules is usually 500 mg and you can take one capsule twice a day.
Shatavari Moon Milk: for restful sleep
If you find it difficult to rest in the evening and want to balance your excess Vata dosha, try a delicious Moon Milk with Shatavari! It is not only tasty, but also helps your body and mind to get ready for bedtime. All you need is:
- 250 ml plant milk
- 1 tsp Shatavari powder
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
While you are heating the milk in a saucepan, you can mix the rest of the ingredients together in a bowl. When the milk is warm enough, simply mix in the powder mixture and stir for about two minutes. After that, the Moon Milk is ready to drink!
With its rejuvenating and calming qualities, Shatavari supports both women and men in their sexual vitality. Women in particular benefit from the Sahtavari root. Whether for those who wish to have children, for menstrual problems or during menopause - it is worth trying this unique root!
