Healthmed Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
An International, Open Access, Peer Reviewed Journal
ISSN: 3078-6975 (Online)
Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari): From Traditional Medicine to Modern Therapeutics
Year : 2026 , Volume : 4, Issue : 1, Pages : 1-17
Review Article
Author :
Abstract
Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari) is one of the most valuable medicinal plants in traditional medicine and has been widely used for centuries to manage reproductive, gastrointestinal, neurological, and inflammatory disorders. Growing scientific interest has prompted extensive investigations into its phytochemical composition and pharmacological activities. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the botanical characteristics, phytochemical constituents, traditional applications, and therapeutic potential of A. racemosus. The plant is rich in steroidal saponins, particularly shatavarins, along with flavonoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and trace minerals that collectively contribute to its diverse biological activities. Experimental and clinical studies demonstrate that A. racemosus exhibits antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, adaptogenic, antimicrobial, antiulcer, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, galactagogue, aphrodisiac, and anticancer properties. In addition, emerging evidence supports its beneficial effects on female reproductive health, cognitive function, stress reduction, and metabolic regulation. Despite substantial preclinical evidence, further well-designed clinical trials, standardized phytochemical profiling, pharmacokinetic investigations, and long-term safety evaluations are required to establish its therapeutic efficacy and facilitate its integration into evidence-based medicine. Although substantial preclinical evidence is available, further well-designed in vivo studies and clinical trials, together with standardized phytochemical profiling, pharmacokinetic investigations, and long-term safety evaluations, are needed to establish therapeutic efficacy and safety and support its integration into evidence-based medicine.
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