What it is
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is an Ayurvedic herb revered as a premier female reproductive tonic. Its roots contain steroidal saponins (shatavarins) and are used in clinical doses of 500 mg to 2 g daily.
Supplement · Botanical
Shatavari (High Dose)
500 mg · vegan · gluten-free · 120 caps
lactation-insufficiencymenopausal-symptomshot-flashesvaginal-drynessinfertilityhormonal imbalancefatigue reproductive systemuterusovaryimmune system
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How it works
Shatavari's steroidal saponins (shatavarins) have phytoestrogenic activity, binding weakly to estrogen receptors and modulating hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis function. A 2025 double-blind RCT of 60 perimenopausal women found that 500 mg/day Shatavari extract significantly improved menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings) and quality of life (MENQOL scores) over 12 weeks. A 2025 RCT in 100 menopausal women showed 1,000 mg/day significantly reduced Kupperman Index scores and improved sleep quality. For lactation, a 1996 RCT showed Shatavari increased prolactin levels and milk production in nursing mothers. The galactagogue effect is mediated via prolactin stimulation and mammary gland alveolar cell proliferation.
Who should take it
Nursing mothers seeking galactagogue support (under lactation consultant guidance). Perimenopausal and menopausal women seeking evidence-based herbal symptom relief. Women with fertility concerns or irregular cycles seeking Ayurvedic reproductive tonic support. Those recovering from illness or debility (Rasayana use). Individuals interested in the most clinically validated Ayurvedic women's health herb.
Avoid / careful
Pregnant women (traditional texts are mixed — some use it for pregnancy support, others caution in first trimester; consult Ayurvedic practitioner). Individuals with estrogen-sensitive cancers without oncologist approval. Those with severe kidney disease (Asparagus genus may increase uric acid). People with asparagus allergy. Not for children except under paediatric guidance. Side effects: Generally well-tolerated at 500 mg–2 g/day. Mild gastrointestinal upset or loose stools in sensitive individuals. May cause weight gain at very high doses due to anabolic Rasayana properties. Those with estrogen-sensitive conditions should use cautiously due to phytoestrogen content. Rare allergic reactions.
When to take it
Morning
Noon
Evening
Night
How to take it
With food
Empty stomach
Before food
FAQs
Frequently asked
How long before I see results?
Lactation benefits may be noticeable within 1–2 weeks. Menopausal symptom relief was significant by 4–8 weeks in 2025 RCTs. Fertility and cycle regulation benefits require 8–12 weeks of consistent use. Rasayana (rejuvenative) benefits accumulate over months.
Is high-dose Shatavari different from regular Shatavari?
This entry focuses on 500 mg–2 g/day of standardised extract, which is the dose used in clinical trials. Many commercial products contain 250 mg or less per capsule. For therapeutic effects matching RCT evidence, ensure your product delivers at least 500 mg/day of extract or 2–3 g/day of raw powder.
Can I take it during pregnancy?
Traditional Ayurvedic practice varies — some practitioners use Shatavari throughout pregnancy for nourishment, while others recommend avoiding it in the first trimester due to its uterine tonic and emmenagogue properties. Modern safety data in pregnancy is limited. Consult your obstetrician and Ayurvedic practitioner before use during pregnancy.
In plain English
A plain-English read of the literature behind this supplement. Not a clinical recommendation.
Key citations: PMID 41055223 (2025 perimenopause RCT, n=60), PMID 41209045 (2025 menopause RCT, n=100), PMID 8979551 (1996 lactation RCT), PMID 41394012 (2025 menopause RCT, n=100), PMID 38725785 (2024 menopause RCT), PMC13076000 (SheVari4 menopausal RCT), PMC12593836 (perimenopause RCT)
From the blog
Editorial notes
SacredBod's longer take on Shatavari (High Dose) — context the structured blocks above don't capture.
What It Is
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus Willd.) is a climbing shrub in the Asparagaceae family, native to India and the Himalayas. Its tuberous roots are one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda, classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenative tonic) and specifically as the premier female reproductive tonic (Stree Rasayana). The root contains steroidal saponins (shatavarins I–IV), flavonoids, alkaloids and polysaccharides. This entry focuses on high-dose clinical use (500 mg–2 g/day of standardised extract) distinct from lower-dose general wellness products.
How It Works
Shatavari’s steroidal saponins (shatavarins) have phytoestrogenic activity, binding weakly to estrogen receptors and modulating hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis function. A 2025 double-blind RCT of 60 perimenopausal women found that 500 mg/day Shatavari extract significantly improved menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings) and quality of life (MENQOL scores) over 12 weeks. A 2025 RCT in 100 menopausal women showed 1,000 mg/day significantly reduced Kupperman Index scores and improved sleep quality. For lactation, a 1996 RCT showed Shatavari increased prolactin levels and milk production in nursing mothers. The galactagogue effect is mediated via prolactin stimulation and mammary gland alveolar cell proliferation.
Who Should Consider It
Nursing mothers seeking galactagogue support (under lactation consultant guidance). Perimenopausal and menopausal women seeking evidence-based herbal symptom relief. Women with fertility concerns or irregular cycles seeking Ayurvedic reproductive tonic support. Those recovering from illness or debility (Rasayana use). Individuals interested in the most clinically validated Ayurvedic women’s health herb.
Dosage Guide
Typical dose: 500 mg per day
Form: capsules (120 count)
Best time: morning
With food: with-food
Expected onset: 2–4 weeks for lactation; 4–8 weeks for menopausal symptoms; 8–12 weeks for fertility
Cycling: No cycling required. Traditional Rasayana use supports continuous daily intake.
Safety & Side Effects
Known side effects: Generally well-tolerated at 500 mg–2 g/day. Mild gastrointestinal upset or loose stools in sensitive individuals. May cause weight gain at very high doses due to anabolic Rasayana properties. Those with estrogen-sensitive conditions should use cautiously due to phytoestrogen content. Rare allergic reactions.
Who should avoid: Pregnant women (traditional texts are mixed — some use it for pregnancy support, others caution in first trimester; consult Ayurvedic practitioner). Individuals with estrogen-sensitive cancers without oncologist approval. Those with severe kidney disease (Asparagus genus may increase uric acid). People with asparagus allergy. Not for children except under paediatric guidance.
Avoid combining with: Tamoxifen and SERMs (theoretical competitive ER binding), Hormone replacement therapy (may be complementary but coordinate with physician), Diuretics (theoretical additive effect), Immunosuppressants (Shatavari is immunomodulatory)
India-Specific Context
Shatavari (High Dose) is available on Amazon India with varying brand quality. When selecting a product, verify standardization claims against the evidence base cited above. Indian brand preferences include Carbamide Forte, HealthyHey, Nutrabay Pure, Pure Nutrition, Now Foods, Nutricost, Himalaya, Patanjali, Dabur, Trexgenics, Evorina, Nervana, Life Extension, VITARUHE, ASTERVEDA, BECLEC, GreenOpia, Rasayanam, Zyrex, and Shree Herbal. Prices vary significantly; compare cost-per-active-dose rather than capsule count alone.
Schedule status in India: Not a Schedule H drug; available as dietary supplement/herbal product.
Research Summary
Key citations: PMID 41055223 (2025 perimenopause RCT, n=60), PMID 41209045 (2025 menopause RCT, n=100), PMID 8979551 (1996 lactation RCT), PMID 41394012 (2025 menopause RCT, n=100), PMID 38725785 (2024 menopause RCT), PMC13076000 (SheVari4 menopausal RCT), PMC12593836 (perimenopause RCT)
Evidence grade: A — Multiple RCTs in 2024–2025 for menopause; 1996 RCT for lactation; strong traditional evidence base
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