Shatavari Kalp (Extract of Asparagus racemosus roots)

Shatavari Kalp (Extract of Asparagus racemosus roots): formulation, ingredients, uses, benefits, and precautions

Shatavari Kalp (Extract of roots of Asparagus) is renowned Ayurvedic formulation, celebrated for its wide range of health benefits, particularly for women's health particularly induction of lactation. Derived from the root of the Shatavari plant (Asparagus racemosus), this herbal preparation has been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries. In this article, let us know details about the method, preparation, ingredients, formulations, dosage, benefits, uses, precautions, and potential side effects of Shatavari kalp.

What is Shatavari kalp?

Shatavari kalp is an age-old ayurvedic mixture of shatavari roots and elaichi that helps mothers feel less discomfort, tired, and weak overall in addition to increasing their ability to produce breast milk. It gives the new mother vitality and general sustenance while successfully balancing the Pitta and Vata doshas. In addition to new mothers, women of all ages can use this formulation to boost their immunity and stamina during their menstrual cycles, the postpartum phase, and even during pregnancy.

Ingredients of Shatavari kalp:

Each 10 g of the shatavari kalp formulation contains:

• 4 g Shatavari - Asparagus racemosus root
• 0.05 g Elaichi/ Cardamom - Elettaria cardamomum added only for flavor purpose
• 5.95 g Sugar as a sweetening agent

Method of Preparation of Shatavari Kalp:

• Shatavari roots and elaichi seeds should both be rinsed under running tap water.
• Dry it in the sun for 4-5 days, or until the moisture content is completely reduced.
• Pulverize both shatavari roots and elaichi seeds into a fine powder.
• In order to obtain a fine powder combination, strain the powdered herbs through 100 number sieve.
• Melt sugar in a big container with a bottom.
• Stir in the dried herbs.
• Stir well.
• After letting it cool, roll them into tiny grains.
• Allow the grains to air dry.
• For later use, store it in a glass jar in a cold and dry place.

Pharmacological actions of Shatavari kalp

• Anti-inflammatory: Lessens pain and swelling following a spontaneous abortion as well as during menstrual cycle.
• Antioxidant: Prevent skin damage from free radicals caused by the intense sun rays.
• Carminative: Treats flatulence and distension of the abdomen by preventing the development of gas.
• Estrogenic: Shatavari roots contains phytoestrogen, an estrogenic molecule that efficiently balances estrogen levels, reduces bleeding, and aids in the endometrium's healing.
• Galactagogue: When used in recommended dosages, its effect encourages lactation and breastfeeding in females.

Health benefits of Shatavari kalp

1. Regulates premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms

Shatavari kalp is renowned for its ability to maintain or balance hormones in women. It helps regulate menstrual cycles and alleviates symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as cramps, mood swings, and bloating. This makes it a valuable remedy for women experiencing irregular periods or hormonal imbalances.

2. Enhances lactation

This formulation is often prescribed to nursing mothers as it enhances lactation. Shatavari stimulates the production of prolactin, a hormone that increases breast milk production. It also improves the quality of milk, ensuring that the newborn receives adequate nutrition.

3. Supports reproductive health

Shatavari kalp is beneficial for overall female reproductive health. It strengthens the uterus, supports fertility, and is often used to treat conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. It also helps in maintaining the health of the female reproductive organs.

4. Boosts immunity

Shatavari kalp is rich in antioxidants and has immunomodulatory properties. It enhances the body's natural defence mechanisms, helping to protect against infections and diseases. Regular consumption of this potent formulation can lead to a fortified immune system and better overall health.

5. Aids digestion

Shatavari kalp has soothing properties that help in maintaining a healthy digestive system. It aids in the treatment of gastrointestinal issues such as acidity, ulcers, and indigestion. The formulation promotes healthy gut flora, which is essential for optimal digestion and absorption of nutrients.

6. Reduces inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of Shatavari kalp help reduce inflammation in the body. It can be beneficial for individuals suffering from inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. By ameliorating inflammation in the body tissues, and it helps to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

7. Supports respiratory health

Shatavari kalp is beneficial for respiratory health. It helps in the treatment of respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic cough. The formulation soothes the respiratory tract, reduces inflammation, and supports healthy lung function.

8. Treats oxidative damage

Rich in antioxidants, Shatavari Kalpa helps neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This protects cells from oxidative damage and reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants also promote healthy skin by preventing premature ageing.

9. Improves skin and hair health

Regular consumption of Shatavari kalp can lead to healthier skin and hair. It hydrates the skin, reduces dryness, and improves complexion. For hair, it promotes growth, reduces hair fall, and prevents dandruff. The nourishing properties of Shatavari make it an excellent natural remedy for maintaining beauty.

10. Promotes male reproductive health

Shatavari kalp is primarily used to treat issues related to the female reproductive system, but it also has a positive impact on men's health. The powder derived from the root has strong spermatogenic properties that are very effective in treating a variety of conditions, including teratospermia (abnormal sperm shape), asthenozoospermia (sperm motility), oligospermia (low sperm count), hypospermia (low volume of semen), and enhances spermatogenesis (sperm production). As a natural antioxidant, it also increases the production of male hormones like testosterone and luteinizing hormone and helps treat conditions like erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

11. Regulates hormones

The effect of Shatavari kalp on the adrenal glands is well-known. Rich in phytoestrogenic bioactive ingredients, Shatavari kalp plays a vital role in maintaining hormonal equilibrium, combating cramps during menstruation, and offering relief from mood swings, sadness, sleeplessness, hot flashes, sweating, and other related symptoms throughout the menstrual cycle. In addition to helping women overcome PMS symptoms, a recommended dosage of root powder aids women who are attempting to get pregnant by facilitating hormone regularization.

12. Manages diabetes

The superior hypoglycemic ability of Shatavari kalp is mostly responsible for lowering the body's blood sugar levels. When taken in prescribed quantity, the pancreatic β-cells start producing insulin. It assists in lowering the rate at which starch is converted to glucose, which lowers blood glucose levels.

13. Treats ulcers and wounds

The potent anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer qualities of Shatavari kalp are crucial in the treatment of a variety of ulcers, including canker sores, peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis, and mouth ulcers. The plant's bioactive compounds promote tissue regeneration, and the juice that is taken from the leaves is also used topically for powder wounds.

Shatavari kalp precautions

• Pregnancy: Shatavari is generally considered safe and secure and it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
• Diabetes: Due to the sugar content in shatavari kalp, those with diabetes should use it with caution.
• Allergies: The individuals allergic to asparagus or any other ingredient should avoid it.