Introduction:

Satavari/Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosa) is a plant of ‘asparagus’ family. It is a herb having soft, feathery, thin and striated leaves grow in rainy season. Satavari roots are adventitious, fleshy, fibrous and tuberous. They taper at both ends, can grow up to 1 meter and 100 in number. This very part of the plant is used for a medicine and medicinal supplement in Ayurveda. The fleshy Satavari roots have the capacity to capture and store moisture adapting to dry soil and dry climate, which reflects its potential for nurturing the human body in crisis. The Satavari plant is commonly found in many parts of tropical India and Asia. Satavari is bitter and slightly sweet in taste, cool in nature and vata-pittaghna, i.e. it pacifies Vata and Pitta doshas.

Satavari has so many names as Shatavari, Shatmuli, Bahu-suta, Bahu-putra, Narayani, Shatavirya, Shukshma-patra, Atirasa, etc. Each and every name assigned to this miraculous medicinal herb has a significance, as the name Shatavari or Shatmuli means one which has a bunch of hundreds of roots, it expands extensively hence named Bahu–suta or Bahu–putra. Its name Narayani is believed to be derived from the name of Lord Vishnu i.e. Narayan. There are references of Satavari as Shatavari in Agnipurana with respect to its Rakshoghna property and utilization in rituals like Homas. Taittariya Upnishada refers a herb ‘Shatamula’ which is accepted to be Satavari. It has been placed in Balya (strength promoting) herb and Vayasthapan (longevity promoting) herb.

Health Benefits of Satavari:

According to ancient medical systems Ayurveda, Siddha and Yunani, Satavari is documented as one of the best Rasayans (chemical compounds) for healthy and happy life. Now these days Homeopath has also accepted its medicinal properties and included this herb as an ingredient of vital tonics and medicines. It is found to be beneficial in fatigue, bleeding disorders, abdominal tumors, diarrhea-dysentery, Irritable Bowel syndrome and eye disorders. Except these it is helpful in-

• promoting a healthy reproductive system,
• Modulating and stimulating immunity,
• Improving brain functioning and neuron-system,
• Managing stress,
• Stimulating digestive functions,
• Regulating blood circulation,

Adaptogenic Properties of Satavari:

Satavari is also known as ‘the queen of herbs’ because of its adaptogenic properties. Its fertility-toning and nervous system restoring qualities, Satavari helps support and nourish the body. It helps restore depleted vitality and cope with physical and emotional stress. Satavari is considered to be best immunity-enhancer; it stimulates the immune cells and boosts immunity in case of infections and diseases. Satavari helps gain weight in underweight; it improves digestion by flushing out the toxins that affect digestion. Satavari helps in nourishment of vital tissues and overall growth of the body.

Medicinal Use:

• Taking Satavari fortified with milk or ghee; acts as ovulation-inducing herb,
• Satavari juice with honey cures leucorrhoea,
• Satavari fortified with milk increases the breast milk,
• Satavari juice fortified with milk/ghee, honey and long pepper increases sex power,
• Satavari roots boiled in milk helps relieve bilious and promotes appetite,
• Fresh Satavari root juice with honey relieves irritation and inflammation,
• Satavari and Gokshur boiled in milk relieves blood urine,
• Satavari powder with warm milk relieves piles.

Nutritional Values:

Experiment based researches on Satavari have the following facts:

• The energy value of Satavari is 180 kcal. per 100 grams.
• It contains nearly 8% crude protein.
• It contains nearly 37% carbohydrate.
• It contains nearly 29% crude fiber.
• It contains less than 1% fat.

Precautions while Using Satavari:

Ayurveda suggests the use of Satavari a completely safe herb even for a long time, but alcoholic extracts of this herb may leave some complications to some people. Small dosage is suggested initially and should be increased gradually. People allergic to other Liliaceous family members like onion, leeks, garlic and chives may experience some allergic reactions to Satavari.

Conclusion:

Satavari is a popular food supplement, medicinal supplement and supplement for holy rituals like Homas and Havanas. It is one of the most important herbs being used by Ayurvedic, Siddha, Yunani and Homeopathy. It is one of the most useful herbal medicines for rejuvenation, treating depression, anxiety, and stress and also regulating reproductive system and immune system. It enhances memory and protects against amnesia. It is a versatile female tonic hence named as ‘Queen of Herbs’.

FAQs:

1. What is Satavari?

Satavari is a herb whose roots and leaves are used to make various herbal preparations.

2. What are the health benefits of Satavari?

Satavari has a numbers of health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting immune system, promoting lactation, improving fertility and regulating menstrual complications.

3. How is Satavari typically consumed?

Satavari is commonly consumed in the form of powder or capsules, but it can also be brewed into tea or decoction.

4. Are there any side effects of Satavari?

Satavari is considered to be a safe herb but some individuals may experience allergic complications.

5. Can Satavari be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Satavari is often used during pregnancy and breastfeeding to promote lactation and support women health.

6. Where can I buy Satavari?

Satavari supplements and products can be found at most of health food store, Ayurvedic shops and online retailers.