Satawar, also known as shatavari, is an herb with a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. Satawar is commonly consumed in the form of shatavari (asparagus) powder, or shatavar churan, and is renowned for its numerous health benefits, particularly for women’s health. This versatile herb has been used for centuries to support hormonal balance, treat depression, and promote healthy ageing. Whether you are looking to balance hormones, support lactation, or improve overall wellness, shatavari is a powerful herb that can help support your health goals.
Here, you can explore the many benefits of Satawar, whether consumed in the form of asparagus powder or shatavar churan, and the ways in which these products can benefit female health.
Satawar benefits
Here are some of the Satawar benefits:
1. Helps maintain blood sugar levels
Type 2 diabetes is becoming increasingly common and there is a need for safer and more effective treatments. According to 2007 research, shatavari may help keep blood glucose (sugar) levels stable. It is hypothesised that chemicals in the herb promote insulin secretions; however, it is unclear how.
While more research is needed, experts speculate that understanding how shatavari influences blood glucose levels could lead to the development of new diabetes treatments.
2. Has anti-ageing effects
Shatavari herb is believed to be a natural anti-ageing remedy.
AÂ study published in 2015 reveals that the saponins present in the roots of shatavari may be effective in reducing the damage caused by free radicals to the skin, which can lead to the development of wrinkles. Satawar also aids in preventing the breakdown of collagen which is important for maintaining the elasticity of your skin.
3. Promotes reproductive health in women
Satawar has benefits associated with female health issues, particularly reproductive disorders.
Based on a review of studies presented in Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, this plant may help with conditions including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and hormonal imbalances.
4. May help treat depression and anxiety
Major depressive disorder and anxiety are common mental health conditions affecting individuals; however, many people cannot use these prescription depression drugs due to undesirable side effects.
Satawar can benefit people suffering from depression and anxiety. Ayurvedic practitioners utilise Shatavari to treat depression.
A 2009 study on rodents revealed that antioxidants found in Shatavari have antidepressant effects. They also have an impact on the brain’s neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are responsible for transmitting information all through the brain, and certain types are associated with depression.
According to a 2014 study published in the journal Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, Shatavari lowers anxiety in rats through interaction with gamma-aminobutyric acid, also known as the GABA system, both of which are involved in anxiety in rats and humans.
5. Helps reduce menopausal symptoms in women
The benefits of using asparagus powder to treat menopausal symptoms are scientifically proven.
Recent research reveals that a mixture of medicinal herbs, including Shatavari, may alleviate the symptoms of menopause, which is consistent with its traditional application as a therapeutic option for treating issues related to the female reproductive system.
In 2018, a study explored the impact of medicinal herbs on symptoms associated with menopause. Women who participated in the study stated an improvement in night sweats and hot flashes after using Shatavari and three additional herbs for 12 weeks, although there was no difference in their hormones or overall health.
6. May help treat gastric ulcers
Ulcers are sores in the oesophagus, stomach, or small intestine. These ulcers may be extremely painful. They can result in severe complications, including perforation or bleeding.
According to a 2005 study, Shatavari can cure medically induced ulcers in rats’ stomachs and food pipes. The researchers found that the herb was roughly as efficient as the prescription medicine ranitidine, which is frequently prescribed for treating ulcers in humans. They also observed that Satawar did not appear to be as helpful in curing stress-induced ulcers.
7. Might help in treating kidney stones
A stone in the kidney is a hard deposit in the kidneys, that can cause awful pain as they move through the urinary tract.
The formation of most kidney stones is attributed to oxalates, which occur naturally in various foods, such as beets and spinach.
The asparagus powder may benefit people who are prone to developing kidney stones.
In a study conducted in 2005, it was discovered that the extract from the Satawar root could aid in preventing the formation of oxalate stones and elevate the concentration of magnesium in the urine of rats. Adequate levels of magnesium in the body are thought to prevent the formation of crystals in the urine, which can result to the development of kidney stones.
8. May have diuretic properties
Diuretics assist in the removal of excess fluid from the body. They are frequently administered to individuals with congestive heart failure in order to drain excessive fluid around and from the heart. Prescription diuretics may result in major side effects.
Shatavari has been used as a diuretic in Ayurveda.
In a 2010 study on rats, the researchers found that 3,200 milligrams of Shatavari showed diuretic activity while having no acute toxicity.
Nevertheless, more research on humans is required before Shatavari may be advised as a diuretic with safety.
9. May aid in cough relief
According to a mice study conducted in 2000, Shatavari root juice can be utilised as a natural cough remedy. Researchers tested its cough-relieving effect on coughing mice. They observed that shatavari root extract stopped the cough, and it has efficacy similar to that of codeine phosphate, a prescription drug used for cough.
Yet, further research is needed to establish whether shatavari works to relieve coughs.
10. Pregnancy and breast-feeding
Galactagogue is a substance that increases milk production during breastfeeding, and Shatavari is often used for this particular purpose.
In a review study in 2015, an aqueous extract of shatavari root at 250 mg/kg was demonstrated to boost both the mammary lobuloalveolar tissue weight and the production of milk in oestrogen-primed rats.
Additional research is required to determine whether a shatavari supplement is suitable to be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Before using any supplement or herb during these times, ask your physician or other healthcare practitioner.
11. May help in treating diarrhoea
Shatavari is a traditional treatment for diarrhoea. Diarrhoea can lead to serious complications, including electrolyte imbalance and dehydration.
Based on a 2005 study, Shatavari assisted in stopping diarrhoea in castor oil-induced rats.
Nevertheless, more research is needed to determine whether Shatavari produces similar results in humans.
12. May help immune function
In Ayurveda, Shatavari is used for boosting immunity.
A 2004 study found that animals given shatavari root extract exhibited higher levels of antibodies to a particular strain of cough that causes whooping cough than did untreated mice. The animals that were treated recovered more quickly and had better overall health. This indicated a better immunological response.
13. Has antioxidant effects
Antioxidants are vital in safeguarding our bodies from the damaging effects of free radicals, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to the development of illnesses such as cancer. They also provide protection against oxidative stress, which is another factor responsible for various diseases.
The Shatavari herb contains saponins, which are known for their antioxidant properties. Moreover, a study conducted in 2004 reported that shatavari root contains racemofuran, a new antioxidant as well as two well-known antioxidants, Asparagamine A and racemosol.
14. Has anti-inflammatory properties
The compound racemofuran found in shatavari has been found to possess potent anti-inflammatory properties. In the book ‘Medicinal Cookery: How You Can Benefit from Nature’s Pharmacy’, it is suggested that racemofuran works in a similar way as COX-2 inhibitors, a class of prescription anti-inflammatory drugs that are believed to have fewer digestive side effects. This highlights the potential of racemofuran as a natural anti-inflammatory agent with a favourable safety profile.
15. Has anti-bacterial properties
Shatavari may have antibacterial activity against certain bacteria.
The methanolic extracts of Shatavari roots at certain dosages indicated notable antibacterial effectiveness against Shigella sonnei, Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella typhi, Shigella flexneri, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas pectida, Vibrio cholerae, and Staphylococcus aureus in in-vitro studies.
How to use shatavari?
Shatavari is a versatile herb that can be used in various forms and for various benefits to promote health and wellness. Here are some of the most common ways to use shatavari:
- Shatavari juice
- Satawar churna
- Shatavari capsules
- Shatavari tablets
- Shatavari syrup or tonic
- Shatavari powder
Side effects and risks of Shatavari
Shatavari is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses, and side effects are rare; however, some people may experience minor side effects, including:
- Allergic reaction
Some individuals may be allergic to Shatavari, particularly if they happen to be allergic to asparagus or other asparagus family members.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:- Hives
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing
- Rash
- Dizziness
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
- Shatavari is believed to possess a diuretic effect, inhibiting the body from absorbing sodium. This indicates that people who consume the supplement may be considerably susceptible to dehydration. Shatavari should be avoided if you are already on diuretics.
- Shatavari may potentially lower blood sugar levels. People who are on blood sugar-lowering medicines or herbal treatments should avoid taking Shatavari.
- Shatavari is traditionally used to support lactation, but its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been extensively researched. Therefore, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid shatavari or consult with their healthcare practitioner before using it.
Takeaway
Satawar, or shatavari, is a powerful herb that has been used for centuries to support health and wellness in Ayurvedic medicine. The benefits of asparagus powder, made from shatavari, are numerous and include relief from coughs, treatment for diarrhoea, and anti-ageing effects on the skin. For women, shatavar churan, or shatavari powder, is particularly beneficial, helping with everything from menstrual cramps and hot flashes to lactation.
Shatavari is a versatile herb that can be consumed in various forms, including capsules and powders, making it an easy addition to any health routine. While side effects are rare, it is important to use shatavari under the guidance of a healthcare practitioner, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. With benefits of asparagus powder, or shatavar churan benefits for especially females, shatavari is a natural way to support your health and well-being.
