By: Holly Dunn
College of Ayurveda
Introduction
Ayurveda is one of the oldest systems of medicine which focus on an alternative approach to health which involves physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The Ayurvedic tradition attributes significant importance to the medicinal plants, and the majority of them have long roots into ancient literature, and are the subject matter of a growing academic attention of modern science. Among these, there is the famous and potent Rasayana herb, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) with its rejuvenating and therapeutic effects. Shatavari was historically described as having a positive effect on female reproductive health and immunity as well as vitality, and nowadays is one of the subjects of modern studies of the effect of the pharmacological and clinical use of Shatavari.
This paper will provide a thorough literature review of Shatavari by integrating both classical Ayurveda and current scientific findings. The review discusses its botanical properties, Ayurvedic, traditional uses and therapeutic uses and then examines recent clinical studies and experimental studies. Through comparative analysis of classical descriptions and modern results, this paper will shed light on the applicability of Shatavari in modern healthcare, as well as on the areas of research that need additional investigation.
Shatavari Botanical Description
Shatavari or scientifically Asparagus racemosus is a member of the family Liliaceae. It is a perennial climbing shrub that is common throughout the tropical and subtropical areas such as India, Sri Lanka, and some of Africa and Australia.1 It consists of the plant with woody stems, curved spines and clustered needle-like cladodes. Its flowers are small, white and fragrant and the fruits are red berries.
1V. G. Neginhal, “Dravyaguna Vijnana,” 2018, 224.
The root of the plant is predominantly the medicinal part and contains large amounts of water-soluble compounds, sugars and mucilage. Neginhal asserts that the root composition is made up of approximately 52.3% water-soluble matter, 9% water, and 7% sugar. 1 These are constituents which contribute to its nourishing and demulcent properties. Other bioactive molecules that have been linked with the pharmacological properties of the plant include saponins, alkaloids and flavonoids.
Ayurvedic Properties (Rasa, Guna, Virya, Vipaka)
The Ayurveda describes the medicinal effect of a herb by its qualities, which are Rasa (taste), Guna (qualities), Virya (potency) and Vipaka (post-digestive effect). It is claimed that Shatavari contains Madhura (sweet) and Tikta (bitter), Guru (heavy) and Snigdha (unctuous), Sheeta (cooling) virya, and Madhura vipaka.1
All these properties make it have a nourishing and cooling effect on the body. The sweetness and post-digestive qualities of the same help to develop and re-energize the tissues and the cooling effect helps in reducing the unwarranted heat and swelling. The unctuous nature aids in lubrication and nutrients on body tissues, especially reproductive tissues. The classical Ayurvedic system also classifies Shatavari as Rasayana (rejuvenative), Balya (strength-promoting), and Stanya (lactation-promoting) herbs.1 These are some of the classifications that emphasize its contribution to more vitality, immunity and reproductive health.
Classical Texts Uses
The classical Ayurvedic sources contain a lot of descriptions of the therapeutic uses of Shatavari. To promote well-being, longevity and fertility, the herb has been known to have been used in Caraka Samhita. The importance of Rasayana therapy as a means of health maintenance and disease prevention is highlighted in the text, and Shatavari is often used as part of such compounds.2 Caraka in his exposition on pharmacology gives some of the most important principles of this science, such as rasa, guna, virya, and vipaka, which are used in the explanation of the action of medicinal plants. Cooling and nurturing properties of shatavari specifically suit balancing vata and pitta doshas and, therefore, the maintenance of reproductive and digestive health (Sharma, n.d.).
2 Priya Vrat Sharma, “Caraka Saṃhitā,” 2014, 26.
The traditional uses of Shatavari in disease conditions, such as gulma (abdominal tumours), atisara (diarrhea), arsha (hemorrhoids), and grahani (digestive disorders) are also documented by Neginhal.1 It is also used in eye diseases and general tonic. The herb is used in classical compounds like Shatavari Rasayana, Shatavari Ghrita and Narayan Taila due to its restorative properties. The fact that Shatavari is a Balya (strength-promoting) and Vayasthapana (age-sustaining) also helps to point at the fact that it promotes vitality and longevity. These ancient applications give a basis to the contemporary applications of it in therapy.
Therapeutic and Clinical Uses
Shatavari has been extensively used in Ayurveda due to its medicinal value especially in the reproductive health of women. The reason it is a significant herb to improve fertility and postpartum healing is its Shukrala (reproductive tissue-enhancing), and Stanya (lactation-promoting).1 Shatavari is also used in the treatment of digestive diseases, together with reproductive health due to its calming and anti-inflammatory action. Its demulcent action is useful in gastrointestinal conditions such as gastritis and ulcer and the laxative action is weak and helps in controlling the bowel. The herb is also said to be useful in immunity since the herb elevates the resistance of the body to stress and illness. Shatavari is adaptogenic, and in line with the Ayurvedic concept of Rasayana, that aims at resilience and longevity. These are especially applicable to chronic conditions that need to be managed and overall well-being.
Modern Scientific Evidence
Recent scientific findings have presented increasingly strong arguments of Ayurvedic applications of Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) that are traditional. The contemporary research has gone beyond the general elaboration of its benefits and it has begun to identify particular pharmacological activities, bioactive elements, and clinical outcomes. The articles still mention the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, the adaptogenic properties, neuroprotective properties, and endocrine-regulating properties of Shatavari. Noteworthy, current discoveries are not isolated and tend to be in close agreement with classical Ayurvedic accounts of the herb as a Rasayana indicating a meeting point between conventional knowledge and scientific confirmation.
According to one of the most detailed current studies, Majumdar et al. (2021) define Shatavari as a neuro-nutraceutical that has a great neuroprotective and adaptogenic potential. Their review highlights the fact that neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer diseases, Parkinson diseases, and depression, are complicated by the involvement of oxidative stress, inflammation, and neurotransmitter imbalance.3 Shatavari extracts were found to influence these underlying mechanisms through correcting the disturbed levels of neurotransmitters and protecting neurons against oxidative stress. Particularly, the herb exhibited the antioxidant property in lowering neuronal damage caused by free radicals which is a significant cause of cognitive deterioration. Additionally, the authors underline that Shatavari has nootropic actions, in other words, it can enhance cognitive and memory and mental sharpness. These findings are strongly consistent with the Ayurvedic Shatavari Ayurvedic typology of Medhaya Rasayana, a category of herbs, that supports intellect and mental processes.
Another key point raised by the researchers is the adaptogenic nature of Shatavari. Adaptogens are those substances which assist the body to respond to physical, chemical, and biological stressors. Review indicates that Shatavari increases coping of the body to stress because of neuroendocrine pathways which trigger symptoms of anxiety and depression.3 This corresponds to the Ayurvedic concept of maintaining the balance between the body and mind. However, one of the main limitations expressed by the authors of this research is also the fact that since herbal extracts are not standardized, it is difficult to attribute any specific therapeutic effect to a specific substance. This means that there remains a considerable research gap that ought to be overcome in order to increase clinical applicability.
The study conducted by Hannan et al. (2025) has strong experimental evidence that Shatavari has antidiabetic and cardioprotective effects in the field of metabolic health. Through the assistance of the neonatal streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetes model on rats, the researchers could demonstrate that the daily dose of the Shatavari root extract led to statistically significant results in multiple metabolic parameters. After 28 days of therapy, the serum glucose level lowered by 21% (p < 0.01), a substantial effect of hypoglycemic effect. The levels of fructose, a measure of long-term glycemic control also decreased by 11% (p < 0.05).4 The findings suggest that Shatavari not only helps to lower the blood glucose level, but also improves the overall glycemic control.
3 Shreyasi Majumdar et al., “Neuro-Nutraceutical Potential of Asparagus Racemosus: A Review,” Neurochemistry International 145 (May 2021): 105013, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105013.
4 J. M. A. Hannan, Asma Ahammed, and P. R. Flatt, “Therapeutic Potential of Asparagus Racemosus Root in Managing Hyperglycemia, Dyslipidemia, and Platelet Aggregation in Neonatal Streptozotocin-Induced Type 2 Diabetic Rats,” European Journal of Medicinal Plants 36, no. 1 (January 29, 2025): 72–82, https://doi.org/10.9734/ejmp/2025/v36i11239.
The study also had significant lipid profiles besides controlling the glucose. Total cholesterol decreased by 9% (p < 0.05), triglycerides by 16% (p < 0.05), and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) by 38% (p < 0.01). These represent significant clinical reductions, in which dyslipidemia is one of the most important risk factors of cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients. Furthermore, the platelet aggregation was reduced by 18% (p < 0.05), thus indicating that it can be used to prevent thrombosis and enhance the health status of the cardiovascular system.4 It is noteworthy that these advantages were gained in the absence of adverse effects on body weight, the consumption of food or organ activity, which indicates a good safety picture. This paper offers good arguments to show that Shatavari can be utilized as natural therapy in trying to treat diabetes and its associated conditions.
Pandey et al. (2022) explore the molecular aspect in more detail by describing the bioactive compounds that result in the therapeutic effect of Shatavari. Their work also indicated the presence of some new furostanol saponins like furoasparoside A-F extracted out of the roots of the plant.5 Among them, furoasparoside E had very promising hypoglycemic properties. In an experimental model this compound has been demonstrated to reduce the postprandial blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetic mice. The action mechanism was associated with the stimulation of the AMPK signaling pathway that is important to control glucose uptake and energy metabolism. Furoasparoside E enhances glucose metabolism by inducing GLUT4 translocation into muscle cells, and, consequently, optimizes the amount of blood sugar. Such mechanistic data may be applied scientifically to elucidate the antidiabetic effect of traditional Ayurvedic practice and justify the potential of high-plant-based pharmaceuticals.
Clinically Shatavari has also been clinically shown to have effects in addressing the health of women; an area that it has been used for centuries. Ademola et al. (2026) used a rigorous randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that involved 135 women to assess the impact of Shatavari root extract on sexual wellness. The investigators indicated that statistically significant differences were registered in several regions of sexual functioning like arousal (p = 0.041), lubrication (p = 0.027), orgasm (p = 0.031) and general sexual satisfaction (p = 0.0001). Moreover, the frequency of sexual activity was also a significant increase (p = 0.001),
5 Alka Raj Pandey et al., “Furostanol Saponins from Asparagus Racemosus as Potential Hypoglycemic Agents,” Phytochemistry 201 (September 2022): 113286, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113286.
as well as psychological well-being indicators, including happiness and mood.6 Notably, no severe adverse effects were reported, and all of the ones mentioned resolved without treatment, suggesting that the treatment was tolerated well. These results provide solid evidence behind the conventional applications of Shatavari as a reproductive tonic, and also demonstrate that Shatavari may be a safe and effective intervention in female sexual dysfunction.
Similarly, Mahajan et al. (2025) determined the efficacy of Shatavari in the treatment of the perimenopausal symptoms with the help of another randomized controlled trial. Among crucial symptoms, such as hot flushes (p = 0.002), stress levels (p < 0.0001), and fatigue (p = 0.019), significant improvements were noticed in the study. The hormonal analysis indicated that the levels of estradiol (p = 0.003), follicle-stimulating hormone (p = 0.028) and triiodothyronine (T3) (p = 0.021) were improved, which means that Shatavari might be used to regulate the endocrine processes in the case of hormonal treatment.7 Its safety is also evident by the fact that it has no impact on the liver and kidney function that makes any side effects. It is also consistent with the Ayurvedic views of Shatavari being a hormone-balancing and rejuvenating herb.
Ademola et al. (2025) provide further evidence by comparing the synergistic actions of Shatavari and Ashwagandha with menopausal women. This research has shown a high level of enhancement of menopause related symptoms such as mood, stress and quality of life. This combination therapy and this combination therapy produced better results compared to Shatavari alone and with this combination therapy and with highly significant changes in Menopause Rating Scale scores (p < 0.0001). Although some adverse effects were observed, though they were in a small number of the participants, they did not warrant medical attention and were mild. This article suggests that Shatavari works synergistically with other adaptogenic herbs and this hypothesis is compliant with the Ayurvedic preparations whereby a combination of multiple herbs is usually adopted in order to intensify the effect of the preparation.
Although there is an increasing body of evidence, multiple limitations to the body of research exist. Many studies may have limited the generalization of the findings by the use of
6 John Ademola et al., “Efficacy and Safety of Shatavari Root Extract (Asparagus Racemosus) for Menopausal Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Three-Arm, Placebo-Controlled Study,” Frontiers in Reproductive Health 7 (November 27, 2025): 1654503–3, https://doi.org/10.3389/frph.2025.1654503.
7 Supriya Mahajan, Prathamesh Avad, and Jayshree Langade, “Efficacy and Safety of Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus) Root Extract for Perimenopause: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study,” International Journal of Women S Health Volume 17 (November 1, 2025): 4057–73, https://doi.org/10.2147/ijwh.s544267.
animal models or short-term clinical trials. Moreover, variations in extraction methods, doses and formulations make it difficult to compare results of trials. According to Majumdar et al. (2021), one of the biggest barriers to clinical translation of Shatavari-based therapies is avoiding standardization. Large scale and long-term clinical trials should be the next step in research to establish the certain guidelines on the use of these therapies and the use of standardized formulations.3
Overall, the current scientific literature is rather favorable to the traditional role of using Shatavari and it also provides the new information regarding the action mechanisms of this substance. The integration of classical interpretations of Ayurvedic knowledge and modern research highlights the opportunities of Shatavari as an effective therapeutic agent in mainstream medicine.
Discussion: Comparison of Classical and Modern Findings
Comparative analysis of Ayurvedic Ayurvedic Ayurvedic Ayurvedic Ayurveda in comparison with the contemporary scientific study will point to the fact that there is a very close and prominent parallelism in the Ayurvedic knowledge in regard to therapeutic properties of Shatavari. Whereas Ayurveda describes the activity of Shatavari in terms of Rasayana, rasa, guna, virya and vipaka, biochemical, pharmacological, and clinical models are used to explain the effects of this substance in modern science. Despite the difference in the explanations of these two explanatory frameworks, both of these explanations affix that Shatavari is a potent, multipurpose herb that possesses huge physical and mental health benefits.
According to classical Ayurvedic sources, Shatavari is classified as a Rasayana containing a combination of substances which increase longevity, vitality, and well-being. Rasayana therapy was not limited to curing diseases but with the aim of strengthening the body against stress, delaying the aging process and the quality of life. This notion is very similar to the contemporary scientific knowledge of adaptogens-substances that improve the capacity of the body to adapt to stress and sustain homeostasis. Adaptogenic effects of Shatavari identified in modern studies are very supportive of this traditional classification. To illustrate, according to Majumdar et al. (2021), Shatavari balances neuroendocrine and reduces oxidative stress, which strengthens the body to withstand physical and mental stresses. This similarity of operations demonstrates that the Ayurvedic concept of Rasayana is not merely a philosophical idea but in addition, manifestations of the physiological effects that can be observed.3
The neuroprotective properties of Shatavari also demonstrate how the classical and modern views are similar. Some of the herbs classified by Ayurveda as Medhya Rasayana are known to enhance intellectual performance, memory and intellect. The historic use of shatavari as a nervine tonic is also reinforced by modern findings that the compound may be employed to rectify the balance of the neurotransmitters and avoid oxidative damage to the neurons.3 Their effects particularly apply to neurodegenerative diseases such as the Alzheimer and Parkinson disease where the oxidative stress and damage of neurons play the central role. Shatavari exhibits a mechanism of action that is much similar to its traditional application in enhancing mental health by alleviating oxidative stress and helping neurons to work. This overlap indicates that Ayurvedic practitioners of ancient times might have discovered therapeutic effects by means of empirical experiments that are currently being described using the scientific approach.
The other area that classical and modern knowledge agree on is the role of Shatavari in reproductive health. In Ayurveda Shatavari is often referred to as Shukrala (reproductive tissue enhancer), Stanya (lactation promoter), particularly in women. Recent clinical studies are in strong support of these traditional uses. Ademola et al. (2026) established that Shatavari supplementation could significantly enhance various measures of female sexual functioning, such as arousal, lubrication, and general satisfaction, with a highly statistically significant result (p < 0.0001).8 Similarly, Mahajan et al. (2025) found that Shatavari improved the symptoms of perimenopause i.e. hot flushes, stress and fatigue, and elevated estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone levels.3 These results furnish definite clinical justification of the traditional use of the herb in the female reproductive health and hormonal regulation.
Moreover, the Ayurvedic concept of maintaining the balance of the doshas (vata, pitta and kapha) is in line with the endocrine-regulating effects that are outlined in modern studies. These imbalances of the balance can be regarded as hormonal disbalances in modern medicine. The fact that Shatavari can be used to balance hormones and enhance reproduction suggests that the extract can be used so as to balance the body that is an essential Ayurvedic treatment. It shows how the ancient concepts can be updated to the new physiological language and be more relevant to the new healthcare.
8 John Ademola et al., “Effects of Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus) Root Extract on Sexual Wellness in
Women: Findings from a Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Three-Arm, Parallel-Group,
Placebo-Controlled Study,” International Journal of Women’s Health 18 (October 2026): 561213,
https://doi.org/10.2147/IJWH.S561213.
The metabolical benefits of Shatavari also indicate the good correlation of the classical and modern perception. Ayurveda describes Shatavari as a balancing herb, aids in digestion and metabolism, particularly in an excess production of heat or inflammation. Recent studies prove this perception as it shows that it is effective in treating diabetes and dyslipidemia. An enormous reduction in serum glucose (21%), triglycerides (16%), and non-esterified fatty acids (38%) and platelet aggregation (18%), were also reported by Hannan et al. (2025).4 These findings indicate that Shatavari is a multifarious health-promoting substance that has actions on glycemic metabolic health, and cardiovascular risks. The influence on numerous metabolic pathways indicates the overall treatment of Ayurveda, which focuses on the cause of the disease but not on single symptoms.
At the molecular scale, other studies, like Pandey et al. (2022), also support these traditional statements, determining the particular bioactive compounds that cause the therapeutic effects of Shatavari. Furostanol saponins and their ability to stimulate the AMPK signaling pathway provide a scientific basis to the herb antidiabetic effect.5 This mechanistic notion bridges the gap that exists between the traditional knowledge and contemporary pharmacology, and demonstrates that the observed clinical effects have a biochemical basis.
Although there are strong points of convergence, it is necessary to have a critical evaluation of the weaknesses of existing studies. Among the concerns are the uses of animal models in most of the studies and most particularly the studies that have been conducted on the metabolic and pharmacological effects. These are excellent models that provide a glimpse but are of minimal benefit in the human population. The size of the sample and the duration of clinical tests involving human subjects are also minimal but the number is rising. As an illustration, the study period on reproductive health and menopause is usually 8 weeks and might not properly depict the long-term effect and safety profile.
The other significant weakness is the fact that herbal formulations are not standardized. Majumdar et al. (2021) state that the variations in the extraction processes, dosages, and phytochemical composition potentially result in the lack of consistency of the findings of various studies.3 Such discrepancy makes it complicated to develop definite clinical guidelines and reduces the reliability of the findings. In comparison, it is typical of classical Ayurvedic texts to grant so much significance to the methods of preparation and combinations of herbs, which suggests that the problem of standardization is not a new one but that which was approached in a different manner in the traditional practice.
In addition, in contemporary studies the preference has been to study isolated compounds or particular mechanisms, whereas Ayurveda considers herbs as a complex and synergistic system. This reductionist approach may not be able to capture the combined effects of different phytochemicals in Shatavari. As an example, although furoasparoside E was known to be a major antidiabetic agent, probably other constituents play a role in the overall effect of the therapeutic use. That is a major difference between the old and the new practice, where Ayurveda is much more about the overall synergy of the things, and western science is often attempting to separate certain active components.
The other research gap identified in the literature is that there is no research done on long term safety and interactions with other drugs. Even though most of the literature has shown few side effects, safety must be evaluated in a holistic manner particularly when the use is to be extensive. Also, it would be desirable to have studies that take individual variability into account which is one of the major concepts in Ayurveda via the concept of prakriti (individual constitution). Individualized medicine is a relatively recent field of modern medicine, and it might be a good idea to reflect on this concept and Ayurvedic principles.
To sum up, the comparison of classical Ayurvedic knowledge and contemporary scientific research shows an impressive degree of consistency of the perception of the therapeutic effect of Shatavari. Modern literature is empirically validatable and mechanistically explained, whereas classical literature is holistic and well-being-based in approach to balance and preventive measures. These perspectives can be better used to complement Shatavari with modern medicine. Nonetheless, to maximize its therapeutic potential, it will be necessary to address current research limitations, especially in the area of standardization, clinical trial design, and long-term safety.
Conclusion
As demonstrated in this literature review, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) has had and still has a very high profile and a long-standing place in classical Ayurvedic medicine, as well as in modern science. According to the classical Ayurvedic literature and recent empirical studies, the evidence is unchanging to categorize Shatavari as a potent Rasayana herb that has widespread therapeutic action. Classical sources stress the nourishing, cooling and rejuvenating effects, especially concerning reproductive health, digestion, and general health. These basic descriptions are not just theoretical, but are becoming confirmed by new pharmacological and clinical results.
The review reports that Shatavari has various biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, neuroprotective, and endocrine-regulating effects. Contemporary research offers quantifiable results, which are very similar to conventional assertions. It has long-term uses in female health, such as improving hormonal balance, sex life, and menopausal symptoms, as an example. Similarly, its established ability to reduce blood glucose, lipid, and oxidative stress signifies its broader use in guaranteeing a metabolic and systemic homeostasis. The findings reinforce the Ayurvedic idea of treatment, which does not only treat the symptoms, but the root cause of the illness.
One of the main implications of this review is that the ancient knowledge systems and the modern scientific inquiry are strongly converged. The effects of Shatavari are described by Ayurveda through the prism of rasa, guna, virya and vipaka, but contemporary studies explain the same effect through the prism of biochemical pathways, phytochemical compounds, and clinical indicators. Such an intersection is an indication that the Ayurvedic knowledge which existed in the past is not only applicable, but also scientifically relevant when taken along with the assistance of the contemporary approaches.
Nevertheless, regardless of the encouraging evidence, there are a number of constraints. The modern studies are mostly founded on animal testing, short term studies or small human studies that restrict the interpretation of the findings. In addition, there are differences in extraction processes, dosages and formulations that are a problem to standardization and clinical application. These gaps are definite signs that more stringent, extensive, and extensive clinical trials are needed to give a standardized guideline in therapeutic application of Shatavari.
Shatavari is a powerful example of how a traditional herbal medicine can be enhanced and supported by modern scientific research. Its advantages are numerous, and the profile of its safety is high, that is why it should be discussed as a good option to implement in contemporary health care practice. To maximize its potential, future studies must be directed towards standardization, long-term safety and personalized forms of treatment. Shatavari has the potential to make a valuable contribution to the field of holistic health and patient outcomes by combining Ayurvedic and evidence-based medicine.
Bibliography
Ademola, John, Ashutosh Ajgaonkar, Tanisha Debnath, Khokan Debnath, and Jayshree Langade. “Efficacy and Safety of Shatavari Root Extract (Asparagus Racemosus) for Menopausal Symptoms: A Randomized, Double Blind, Three-Arm, Placebo-Controlled Study.” Frontiers in Reproductive Health 7 (November 27, 2025): 1654503–3.
https://doi.org/10.3389/frph.2025.1654503.
Ademola, John, Supriya Mahajan, Mayakalyani Srivathsan, and Deepak Langade. “Effects of Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus) Root Extract on Sexual Wellness in Women: Findings from a Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Three-Arm, Parallel-Group, Placebo-Controlled Study.” International Journal of Women’s Health 18 (October 2026): 561213. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJWH.S561213.
Hannan, J. M. A., Asma Ahammed, and P. R. Flatt. “Therapeutic Potential of Asparagus Racemosus Root in Managing Hyperglycemia, Dyslipidemia, and Platelet Aggregation in Neonatal Streptozotocin-Induced Type 2 Diabetic Rats.” European Journal of Medicinal Plants 36, no. 1 (January 29, 2025): 72–82. https://doi.org/10.9734/ejmp/2025/v36i11239.
Mahajan, Supriya, Prathamesh Avad, and Jayshree Langade. “Efficacy and Safety of Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus) Root Extract for Perimenopause: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.” International Journal of Women S Health Volume 17 (November 1, 2025): 4057–73. https://doi.org/10.2147/ijwh.s544267.
Majumdar, Shreyasi, Smriti Gupta, Santosh Kumar Prajapati, and Sairam Krishnamurthy. “Neuro-Nutraceutical Potential of Asparagus Racemosus: A Review.” Neurochemistry International 145 (May 2021): 105013. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105013.
Neginhal, V. G. “Dravyaguna Vijnana,” 2018.
Pandey, Alka Raj, Shadab Ahmad, Suriya Pratap Singh, Anjali Mishra, Amol Chhatrapati Bisen, Gaurav Sharma, Ishbal Ahmad, et al. “Furostanol Saponins from Asparagus Racemosus as Potential Hypoglycemic Agents.” Phytochemistry 201 (September 2022): 113286. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113286.
Sharma, Priya Vrat . “Caraka Saṃhitā,” 2014.
Research Article Abstracts
(Ademola et al., 2025): Menopause brings hormonal changes that can significantly affect quality of life. Herbal remedies like Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus Willd.) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L. Dunal) are Ayurvedic herbs traditionally used for hormonal balance and associated stress adaptation. The study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Shatavari root extract (SHT) alone and, in combination with Ashwagandha root extract (ARE-SHT), in women with menopausal symptoms. This was an 8-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentric study that enrolled 135 women aged 45–65 years. Participants were randomized into three groups: SHT (n = 45) or an ARE-SHT (n = 45), or a placebo (PL; n = 45). The primary outcome was evaluated by the change in the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) score at weeks 4 and 8. Secondary outcomes were evaluated by changes in Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) score, Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL) score, Profile of Mood States (POMS) score, hot flashes, and mood improvement. The serum hormonal assessments and safety evaluations (liver, renal, and thyroid function) were conducted at week 8. Baseline values were comparable among the groups. Significant improvements in MRS scores were observed in the ARE-SHT group compared to SHT [Week 4 and 8 (p < 0.0001)] and PL [weeks 4 (p = 0.01) and 8 (p < 0.0001)], respectively. MENQOL scores improved numerically by week 8. Esteem-related affect (p = 0.025) and mood improvement (p = 0.008) showed significant changes between the groups. Normal hormonal levels were maintained. Mild adverse events were reported by four participants (loose stools and dizziness in the ARE-SHT group, nausea in the SHT monotherapy group, and headache in the PL group). Shatavari root extract was safe and effective; however, combined with Ashwagandha root extract demonstrated a promising option in managing menopausal symptoms and in enhancing overall health. Future studies with longer duration and larger sample sizes across defined menopausal stages are required to confirm and extend these findings.
(Ademola et al., 2026): Women’s sexual health is affected by physical, psychological, and emotional aspects. In Ayurvedic medicine, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is traditionally classified as a Rasayana known to promote reproductive health and overall well-being in women. The present study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a standardized Shatavari root extract (SHT) in improving women’s sexual health.
Patients and Methods
A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, three-armed study was conducted over 8 weeks with 135 women participants. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either SHT, Shatavari with Ashwagandha root extracts (SHT-ARE), or a placebo (PL). The primary outcome was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Secondary outcomes were measured by Satisfying Sexual Events (SSEs), Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), Profile of Mood States (POMS), Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), which were used for efficacy analysis. The safety parameters were monitored by treatment-emergent adverse events and changes in liver, thyroid, and renal function markers.
Results
At post-intervention (8 weeks), the SHT-ARE group demonstrated improvements in FSFI Arousal (P = 0.041), Lubrication (P = 0.027), Orgasm (P = 0.031), and Total FSFI (P = 0.005) scores compared to the PL group, whereas the SHT group showed improvements in only Total FSFI (P = 0.025) and Satisfaction (P < 0.0001). The number of sexual intercourses between SHT-ARE and PL was increased significantly (P = 0.001), while FSDS scores showed a significant difference in both SHT-ARE (P < 0.0001) and SHT (P = 0.008) when compared to the PL group. Improved OHQ scores in the SHT-ARE group (P < 0.0001) signify greater happiness. Reduced POMS values (SHT-ARE) specified reductions in Tension, Anger, Depression, Fatigue, Esteem-related affect, Confusion, and Total score (P < 0.0001) compared to PL. The SHT-ARE group at week 8 represented no significant differences in PSQI scores, except for Sleep efficiency (P = 0.045) compared to PL. All reported events were mild and resolved with no intervention.
Conclusion
Shatavari root extract is considered a safe, effective, and well-tolerated treatment for improving women’s sexual health and well-being. In addition, it shows an additive effect in combination with Ashwagandha. (Hannan et al., 2025): Lipid abnormalities frequently accompany hyperglycemia and thus a primary goal in diabetes therapy is the management of dyslipidemia. Asparagus racemosus root has previously been shown to reduce postprandial blood glucose in diabetic rats by delaying carbohydrate absorption and enhancing insulin secretion. In the present study, the chronic effects of A racemosus root on serum glucose, fructosamine, lipids, and platelet aggregation were assessed in rats with type 2 diabetes induced by neonatal streptozotocin injection. The type 2 diabetes model was created by injecting 48-hour-old pups with a single intraperitoneal dose of streptozotocin (STZ). Platelet aggregation was measured by optical aggregometry. Daily oral administration of ethanol extract of A racemosus to diabetic rats (n = 10) lowered serum glucose by 21% (p<0.01) and fructosamine by 11% (p<0.05) after 28 days. Total cholesterol (p<0.05), triglyceride (p<0.05), and NEFA (p<0.01) levels were also lowered by 9%, 16% and 38% respectively. No difference in HDL cholesterol or body weights was observed compared to control rats but platelet aggregation was significantly reduced by 18% (p<0.05). Food and water intake, stool formation, water content of stools, and urine formation were unchanged in extract-treated rats in a 24-hour acute observational study in Nalgene Metabolic Cages. In conclusion, this study reveals that ethanol extract of A racemosus root lowers circulating glucose, and atherogenic blood lipids and decreases platelet aggregation. Thus, A racemosus is the source of glucose-lowering bioactive agents and a useful dietary adjunct in the management of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and related complications.
(Mahajan et al., 2025): Purpose: Perimenopause is a natural phenomenon caused by hormonal changes, often accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings that can affect women’s quality of life. Due to concerns about hormonal treatments, women often seek plant-based alternatives. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus Willd.), a renowned herb in Ayurveda, is traditionally used for hormonal regulation and may help relieve these symptoms. Thus, the present study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of 8-week oral administration of Shatavari root extract 300 mg once daily in women with perimenopausal symptoms.
Patients and methods: This prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study screened 120 women, and 80 were eligible participants and were randomly assigned to receive either Shatavari root extract (SHT; n = 40) or placebo (PL; n = 40). Seventy-three participants completed the study per protocol (SHT: n = 37; PL: n = 36). Symptom changes were assessed using scales such as the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS), Menopause-Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) scale, Profile of Mood States (POMS) scale, and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Blood tests were also conducted to monitor hormone levels and safety markers.
Results: The SHT group demonstrated a significant improvement in MRS (somato-vegetative, psychological, and urogenital domains) and PSS scores (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, it showed enhancements in fatigue (p = 0.019) at week 8, vigor (p = 0.021) at week 4, and stress reductions at week 4 (p = 0.010) and week 8 (p < 0.0001). Hot flashes improved significantly more (p = 0.002) with SHT group. Estradiol (p = 0.003), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (p = 0.028), and T3 (p = 0.021) levels increased with no adverse effects observed on liver or kidney function.
Conclusion: Shatavari root extract may be an effective and safe natural intervention for the treatment of perimenopausal symptoms.
(Majumdar et al., 2021): Debilitating neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions are associated with complex multifactorial pathophysiology. Their treatment strategies often only provide symptomatic relief, delaying disease progression without giving a complete cure. Potent and safer treatment alternatives beyond symptomatic relief are sought. Herbal supplements have surely been explored due to their multiple component nature to enhance the effect of western medications. One such well-documented nutraceutical in the ancient Greek, Chinese, and Ayurvedic medicine system known for its various medicinal benefits is Asparagus racemosus. Widely used for its lactogenic properties, A. racemosus is also cited in Ayurveda as a nervine tonic. A. racemosus based nutraceuticals have shown to possess adaptogenic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and nootropic activity under preclinical and clinical settings without posing significant adverse effects. A. racemosus extracts restore the perturbed neurotransmitters and prevent oxidative neuronal damage. From the available neuropharmacological researches, the physiological actions of A. racemosus can ultimately be directed for either augmentation of cognitive ability or in the management of neurological conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease. The studies focus on the multi-component extract, and the lack of standardization has been a major hurdle in preventing the allotment of reported neuropharmacological activity to one of the phytoconstituent. Herbal standardization of the plant extract based on a specific biomarker can help elucidate the intricate biomolecular pathway and neurocircuitries being involved. This, followed by rigorous standardized clinical trials, fixing dosages, and determining contraindications would facilitate the translation of A. racemosus to a FDA-approved neuromedicine for neurological disorders.
(Pandey et al., 2022): Bioactivity guided phytochemical investigation led to isolation of six undescribed furostanol saponins, furoasparoside A-F along with five known compounds, gallic acid, methyl gallate, quercetin-3-O-β-glucopyranoside, liquiritigenin 4׳-O-β-apiofuranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-glucopyranoside and β-glucogallin for the first time from the roots of Asparagus racemosus. Isolated saponins were screened for their antidiabetic potential in L6-GLUT4myc myotubes in vitro followed by an in vivo evaluation in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats and db/db mice. Furoasparoside E produced a notable decrease in the postprandial blood glucose profile, in leptin receptor-deficient db/db mice, type 2 diabetes model. The effect of furoasparoside E on GLUT4 translocation was found to be mediated by the AMPK-dependent signaling pathway in L6-GLUT4myc myotubes. Moreover, it emerged as a stable plant metabolite with higher bioavailability and efficacy in in vivo pharmacokinetic studies. Therefore, these studies indicated that furoasparoside E may serve as a propitious lead for the management of type 2 diabetes and its secondary complications from natural source.