Shatavari Thaneervittan Kizhangu Powder Churna 50g

Shatavari, or Asparagus racemosus or thaneervittan kilangu, has been used for centuries in Siddha as an aid for the reproductive system, particularly for females, and as a support for the digestive system, especially in cases of excess pitta. Translated as “having one hundred roots” and also referred to as meaning “having one hundred husbands”, Shatavari’s name gives reference to its traditional use as a rejuvenative tonic for the female reproductive system. This support is not only for the young woman, but also for the middle aged and elder lady, to help a woman gracefully transition through the natural phases of life, including menopause.

Benefits of Shatavari

The nourishing properties of Shatavari are used traditionally to support a number of systems and functions in the body:

• A prime female reproductive system
• Healthy levels of breast milk production
• Supports already balanced female hormones
• Supportive of male reproductive system as well
• Soothing effect on the digestive tract
• Healthy peristalsis of bowels
• Moisturizing support of the respiratory tract
• Promotes healthy energy levels and strength
• Supports the immune system.
• Natural antioxidant properties

Shatavari and Siddha  : Traditional Uses

Shatavari is used in Siddha to balance pitta and vata, but can increase kapha due to its heavy nature.  Its bitter and sweet taste has a cooling effect on the system, and its unctuous (oily), building nature makes it a great support for anyone looking for a nourishing, grounding effect. These combined qualities make it a rasayana (rejuvenative) for the reproductive system (particularly female), the digestive system (particularly when pitta is involved), and for the blood.

How to Use Shatavari

Shatavari can be taken as a powder or in tablet form. Siddha prefers the powder form of herbs because tasting the herb starts the digestive process and sends signals to the body to initiate the body’s own supportive mechanisms. Shatavari powder (about ½ to 1 tsp for starters) is traditionally taken mixed in a glass of warm milk, with honey or sugar if desired. It can also be mixed with ghee, or actually cooked into an herbalized ghee, to reap its building and nourishing benefits. Shatavari tablets can be easier to use for those who desire the convenience of a tablet (traveling, on the go, at the office), or do not like the taste of the powder. You can still follow the tablets with a glass of warm milk if desired, or take with warm water. Banyan Botanicals prefers tablets over capsules as there is still some mild tasting of the herb that occurs. Taste starts the digestive process, and sends signals to the body as to what to expect, already initiating your body’s own inner pharmacy.

Side Effects

Shatavari is well tolerated in traditional use, and no significant adverse effects have been reported.

Contraindications

Shatavari, as part of the asparagus family, should be avoided by anyone with an allergy to asparagus. Some say that asparagus can have a diuretic effect, and therefore, Shatavari should be used with caution in people taking diuretic drugs. From an Ayurvedic perspective, one should avoid Shatavari in cases of excess kapha, congestion and ama. In the West, as the exact role of phytoestrogens is still unknown, people with estrogen sensitivities, including estrogen sensitive tumors, are advised to use caution with foods and herbs containing phytoestrogens, which would include Shatavari.Always consult your health care practitioner if you have questions related to your particular condition.