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Shatavari Root Extract

Also known as: Shatavari, Asparagus Root, Indian Asparagus, Asparagus racemosus

Overview

Shatavari, derived from the root extract of *Asparagus racemosus*, is a herbal supplement traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Native to India and parts of Asia, it is characterized by its rich content of steroidal saponins and phytoestrogens. Primary applications include treating female reproductive disorders, improving fertility, and supporting menopausal health. It is also explored for potential anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, and galactagogue properties. The bioactive compounds in Shatavari may interact with various biological pathways, influencing hormone levels and neurotransmitter activity. Research is still in its early stages, with limited human studies, necessitating larger, more diverse trials to confirm efficacy and safety. It is available in forms such as tablets, powders, and liquid extracts.

Benefits

Shatavari has demonstrated potential benefits, particularly for postmenopausal women. A randomized, double-blind trial showed significant reductions in menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia, along with improved quality of life. Another study indicated that Shatavari supplementation improved handgrip strength and markers of myosin contractile function in postmenopausal women. Animal studies suggest anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects, potentially through interactions with serotonin and GABA systems, though human studies are lacking. Traditionally, it's used to boost milk production during breastfeeding, but this benefit requires further human research. Benefits in menopausal symptoms were observed over several weeks in studies.

How it works

Shatavari's mechanism of action involves its bioactive compounds, primarily steroidal saponins and phytoestrogens, interacting with various biological pathways. Proteomic analysis suggests that Shatavari upregulates pathways related to integrin/MAPK signaling, metabolism/insulin secretion, cell proliferation/senescence/DNA repair/cell death, and muscle contraction. It may influence the reproductive, nervous, and muscular systems by modulating hormone levels and neurotransmitter activity. While exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated, interactions with serotonin and GABA systems, involved in anxiety and mood regulation, are believed to occur.

Side effects

Shatavari is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses, but comprehensive safety data, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding, is still needed. Common side effects are not well-documented, but clinical trials have not reported significant adverse events. Possible allergic reactions, such as breathing difficulties, itchy skin or eyes, rash or hives, rapid heart rate, and dizziness, are uncommon. There is limited evidence on drug interactions, but caution is advised when using Shatavari with other medications due to its potential effects on hormone levels and neurotransmitter activity. Contraindications include pregnancy and breastfeeding, although more research is needed. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended for postmenopausal women, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with known allergies.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Shatavari is not well established, but studies have used doses equivalent to 26,500 mg/day of fresh root weight. Typical doses range from 500 mg to 3000 mg per day of the dried root extract. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses up to 26,500 mg/day of fresh root weight have been used in clinical trials without significant adverse effects. It is typically taken orally as a tablet, powder, or liquid essence up to three times a day. The choice of form may depend on individual preference and bioavailability considerations. The bioavailability of Shatavari's bioactive compounds is not well studied, but it is believed to be absorbed when taken orally.

FAQs

Is Shatavari safe?

Shatavari appears safe in recommended doses, but more research is needed, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

How should I take Shatavari?

It can be taken up to three times a day as a tablet, powder, or liquid essence. Specific timing recommendations are not available; follow product instructions.

What results can I expect?

Improvements in menopausal symptoms and muscle strength may be observed, but individual results can vary. It is not FDA-regulated, and its efficacy is not fully established.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are uncommon, but allergic reactions are possible. Caution is advised when using Shatavari with other medications due to potential hormone and neurotransmitter effects.

Research Sources

https://www.cochranelibrary.com/content?templateType=related&urlTitle=%2Fcentral%2Fdoi%2F10.1002%2Fcentral%2FCN-00135345&doi=10.1002%2Fcentral%2FCN-00135345&p_p_id=scolariscontentdisplay_WAR_scolariscontentdisplay&_scolariscontentdisplay_WAR_scolariscontentdisplay_action=related-content&p_p_lifecycle=0&p_p_mode=view&type=central&contentLanguage= – This Cochrane Library entry likely contains related content or information relevant to Shatavari, but without direct access, the specific findings cannot be summarized. Cochrane Library entries are generally systematic reviews or meta-analyses, providing high-level evidence.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322043 – This Medical News Today article provides general information about Shatavari, including its traditional uses and potential health benefits. It highlights its role in Ayurvedic medicine and its possible effects on fertility and women's health, but it is not a primary research article.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38214710/ – This study is a randomized, double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled trial involving 70 postmenopausal women. It found that Shatavari root extract significantly reduced menopausal symptoms and improved quality of life compared to the placebo group, indicating its potential efficacy in managing menopausal symptoms.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/379722461_Efficacy_and_Safety_of_Shatavari_Root_Extract_for_the_Management_of_Menopausal_Symptoms_A_Double-Blind_Multicenter_Randomized_Controlled_Trial – This ResearchGate publication details a randomized, double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled trial assessing Shatavari's efficacy and safety in managing menopausal symptoms. The study, involving 70 postmenopausal women, reported significant reductions in menopausal symptoms and improvements in quality of life compared to the placebo group.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38725785/ – This study used a randomized double-blind trial with proteomic analysis on 12 postmenopausal women to investigate the effects of Shatavari supplementation. The findings indicated that Shatavari supplementation upregulated various biological pathways related to muscle function and metabolism, providing mechanistic insights into its actions.