Amazing benefits of Shatavari
Shatavari or Asparagus racemosus is commonly available in India. It is widely used in Ayurveda and traditional medicine.
As per Ayurveda, Shatavari can help balance Vata and Pitta – two out of three doshas in the body. Vata, Kapha and Pitta are three doshas or forces of the body as per Ayurveda. If these forces are in balance, they will promote health or cause diseases when they are out of balance.
Shatavari is available in powder, liquid and tablet forms. Its root extract is taken as medicine. Also, tea made with Shatavari powder is used to treat various health conditions.
Shatavari has the following health benefits:
- Shatavari is used to promote digestive and reproductive health. It improves vitality.
- It is rich in antioxidants to prevent free radicals and oxidative stress. It prevents wrinkles on the skin. It also helps prevent collagen breakdown and thereby retains the elasticity of the skin.
- It is loaded with saponins which reduce the risk of cancer. Saponins also keep blood lipids under control.
- Shatavari has anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, it can provide pain relief.
- It can boost immunity as well. Some studies showed that the extract of Shatavari root had increased antibodies against whooping cough in animals. It is used to treat cough as a natural remedy in many parts of India.
- It is widely used in Ayurveda for treating bladder and kidney problems. it is used as a natural diuretic. Shatavari root extract is used to prevent the risk of kidney stones. It also helps treat the stones.
- In folk remedy, Shatavari is used to treat diarrhoea. It is an effective natural remedy for gastric ulcers.
- It stimulates insulin production and thereby helps maintain blood sugar levels.
- It is used to treat depression.
Side effects:
Potential side effects of Shatavari include rash, dizziness, itchy eyes and skin, and fast heart rate. Those who are allergic to asparagus, pregnant women, lactating mothers and children should avoid consumption of Shatavari. It is not recommended for those who use diuretic drugs or diabetic drugs. Avoid using it with other herbs or drugs.
Image Credit: Dinesh Valke from Thane, India/ CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Source: Shatavari (Hindi: शतावरी)
Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Shatavari_(Hindi-_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80)_(4745632082).jpg
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