Shatavari Lehyam is renowned for its numerous health benefits, particularly for women’s reproductive well-being throughout various life stages, from the onset of menstruation to menopause, and from conception to the postpartum phase. It’s especially helpful for new moms in producing breast milk and managing mood swings and fertility challenges.
An ancient natural remedy rooted in Ayurveda—India’s traditional medical practice—Shatavari, translates to ‘the plant of one hundred roots,’ and is humorously referred to as ‘she who has one hundred husbands’ for its bountiful support to women. Traditionally derived from the roots of the Asparagus racemosus plant, it’s available as a dietary supplement in pill or powder form, offering a host of health advantages.
As an adaptogen, Shatavari Lehyam helps bring balance to the body by counteracting stress, which can adversely affect neurological, endocrine, and immune systems. Research indicates that Shatavari Lehyam enhances immune function by boosting the activity of macrophages—key immune cells tasked with breaking down harmful organisms and cancer cells.
You can find Shatavari Lehyam in powder, tablet, or liquid extract forms. Its core components, steroidal saponins, act as estrogen regulators. This aids in balancing menstrual cycles, easing PMS symptoms, and reducing menstrual cramps and blood flow. A 2018 study review suggests it may also benefit conditions like hormonal imbalances and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Shatavari helps manage fluid retention and bloating pre-period. It provides relief from painful menstruation and contains racemofuran, which has anti-inflammatory properties similar to COX-2 inhibitors found in prescription medication.
The saponins in Shatavari Lehyam are known for their “anti-oxytocin” effect, potentially easing uterine contractions and protecting against possible miscarriages. They also support the healing of the uterus lining by accelerating endometrial microvascular thrombosis and restoring endometrial health.
Shatavari Lehyam is also used for digestive issues, with the dried roots made into juices to treat ulcers and other digestive ailments. Regular consumption may even address conditions like gastroparesis.
As an effective galactagogue, it boosts breast milk production by increasing prolactin levels, the hormone responsible for milk production. Shatavari serves as a phytoestrogen, helping regulate estrogen and menstruation, and is particularly useful for balancing hormones during the postpartum period.
This remedy also offers antidepressant benefits, aiding in hormone balance and possibly preventing postpartum depression. Studies on animals have shown its antioxidants have significant antidepressant properties. Shatavari rejuvenates and supports the entire body, with a notable impact on the endocrine and immune systems, and influences neurotransmitter activity linked to mood.
Shatavari enhances sexual vitality for both men and women. For women, it increases blood flow to the genital area, enhancing sensation and lubrication. For men, regular use can boost sexual arousal and prolong erections. Its hormone-balancing properties also address libido loss in menopausal women.
Scientific studies highlight Shatavari Lehyam’s role in stimulating immune cells, attributed to steroidal sapogenin compounds with potent immune-stimulating effects. It is rich in antioxidants, crucial for protecting against oxidative stress and boosting immunity in compromised conditions.
When taking Shatavari Lehyam, typical doses for tablets are 500 milligrams up to twice daily, and for extract, 30 drops in water or juice up to three times daily. In Ayurveda, Shatavari is known for balancing Pitta and Vata but can increase Kapha due to its inherent heaviness. Its taste profile is sweet and bitter, offering a bittersweet, slightly oily flavor that naturally cools when consumed.
