Shatavari or Sahasraveerya – An Invaluable Plant

Shatavari is an invaluable medicinal plant found all over India. There are two different species of this plant – Asparagus racemosus and Asparagus gonoclados. Both these varieties occur in Kerala. However, the former seems to be more popular.

Appearance

The cladodes of A. racemosus are mostly straight. It grows less tall and flowers between June and September, while A. gonoclados has more curved cladodes and flowers between January and March.

Shatavari is a climber which grows well in moist and fertile soil. Its leaves look like needles from which the cladodes originate. The small flowers blossom together during the season, forming an inflorescence. They appear white with a slight pink shade. An individual flower has six petals while the fruit looks rounded and dark.

The plant has tuberous roots which have the most medicinal applications. Apart from containing Asparagine (an alkaloid) [ref1], Shatavari also contains protein, fat, carbohydrate, and various vitamins like vitamins.

Distribution & Cultivation

It is native and occurs throughout India. Grows very well in loose, fertile, and moist soils. In places like Kerala, Shatavari is found growing like a weed even in shaded fields like rubber plantations.

Cultivation

Cultivation of Shatavari starts by sowing germinated seeds or tuber on well-plowed soil. After sowing, cover it with enough manure or leaves.

The seedlings start sprouting within three weeks. Later, transfer these to grow bags as they reach 1 foot tall. Grow them under shade. After a few weeks, these saplings are planted in the field about 1 meter apart. As it grows, provide supporting stumps for the climber to spread.

Medicinal Values

Rigveda – one among the four Vedas written during Vedic times – mentions the numerous medicinal qualities of this valuable plant. Owing to this quality, this plant is known as Sahasraveerya in Sanskrit.

Shatavari is widely used in Ayurveda and folk medicines to treat various ailments. The roots of Shatavari may have the ability to cure many disorders associated with the female reproductive system.

It may cure Vata and Pitta-related imbalances, cool the body and improve overall vitality.

Disclaimer: This is only general information. Do not consider it as medical advice.

Name in Various Languages

Sanskrit: Sahasraveerya, Shatavaree, Narayanee, Shatamuli, Sahasramuli
Hindi: Shatavari, Shakakul
Tamil: Kilavari
Telugu: Philitaga

Family: Liliaceae / Asparagaceae
Botanical name: Asparagus gonoclados