Does shatavari help in getting pregnant?

Shatavari is commonly used to support female fertility. It may help balance hormones, improve ovulation, and create a healthier environment for conception. But it’s best to consult your doctor before starting.

Does shatavari increase oestrogen in females?

Shatavari contains phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds that may mimic oestrogen in the body. It doesn’t increase oestrogen levels directly, but it may support oestrogen-like activity.

Shatavari for Female Fertility: Can This Ayurvedic Herb Help You Conceive?

Shatavari, often called the “Queen of Herbs” in Ayurveda, has been used for centuries to support women’s health, especially fertility. Known scientifically as Asparagus racemosus, this herb is celebrated for its ability to nourish the reproductive system. Many people turn to it hoping for hormonal balance and better chances of conception. As with any supplement, though, it’s important to look beyond the claims and understand what it really does.

You probably want clear answers before adding anything new to your routine. Are benefits of shatavari for female fertility truly effective or just another trend? And if it does help, how exactly does it work? These are valid questions if you’re trying to conceive and want to make thoughtful choices.

What is Shatavari and Why is it Special?

Shatavari is a plant native to India with delicate needle-like leaves and thick, cream-coloured tuberous roots, where its medicinal power lies. In Ayurveda, it’s considered an adaptogenic herb, meaning it helps your body handle physical and emotional stress. This makes it a go-to tonic for overall well-being for women.

Its name, which translates to “a hundred roots” or “curer of a hundred diseases,” reflects its wide-ranging benefits. When it comes to fertility, shatavari is valued for supporting the reproductive organs and helping create a healthy space for conception.

Benefits of Shatavari for Female Fertility

It has unique properties that can make conception easier:

Balances hormones: Many individuals face challenges like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which disrupts ovulation and causes hormonal imbalances. Shatavari helps regulate hormones by supporting the hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal glands. This can stabilise menstrual cycles, improve follicular maturity, and increase your chances of conceiving.
Promotes ovulation: Shatavari contains steroidal saponins, which may have mild oestrogen-like effects. These compounds support the production of hormones that trigger ovulation, making it easier for your body to release healthy eggs during your cycle.
Enhances cervical mucus: Healthy cervical mucus is important for fertility as it helps sperm travel through the reproductive tract to meet the egg. Shatavari’s mucilage content may protect and tone the cervical mucous membranes. This ensures adequate mucus production during ovulation.
Reduces stress: Stress can wreak havoc on your hormones and may lead to irregular ovulation. As an adaptogenic herb, it calms your nervous system to help your body cope with stress and create a better environment for conception.
Detoxifies the body: It helps clear toxins from your system and create a healthy internal environment where sperm and egg can unite.
Strengthens reproductive organs: Shatavari acts as a uterine tonic by nourishing the uterus and other reproductive organs.

Other Shatavari Uses for Female Reproductive Health

The benefits of shatavari for female health go beyond just fertility. It also offers other benefits that indirectly support your journey to conception:

Supports menopause and perimenopause: For individuals nearing menopause, shatavari’s phytoestrogens can ease symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. It can also benefit people still trying to conceive during perimenopause.
Boosts libido: Known as a natural aphrodisiac, shatavari contains compounds like shatavarin and sarsasapogenin, which enhance sexual desire. A healthy libido can improve intimacy and increase the chances of conception.
Improves immunity: A strong immune system is important for fertility as a weakened system can make your reproductive organs vulnerable to issues. Shatavari’s antioxidants, like saponins and flavonoids, boost immunity and help protect your body from infections that could hinder conception.
Helps postpartum recovery: Shatavari can support lactation after childbirth. It’s rich in folic acid, which is important for foetal development and helps boost milk supply for breastfeeding parents.

How to Use Shatavari for Fertility

Including shatavari into your routine can be simple, but it’s important to do it correctly. These are the common ways to take it:

Powder form: Shatavari powder for female fertility can be mixed with warm milk or water and consumed after meals. This is a traditional method that’s easy to add to your diet. If you plan to use it, consult your doctor for the right dose and usage.
Capsules: Shatavari is also available in capsule form. Check with an expert for the right amount.
Liquid extract: Some prefer it as a liquid extract. Again, it's best to always follow the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner for precise dosing.

It’s important to choose a high-quality supplement to get the full benefits of shatavari for female health. Remember to buy from a trusted brand to avoid contamination.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Some of the potential side effects of shatavari include:

Allergic reactions: Avoid shatavari if you’re allergic to asparagus. It may cause rashes, itchy skin, itchy eyes, dizziness, rapid heart rate, or breathing difficulties.
Low blood sugar: Shatavari may lower blood sugar levels, which could be risky if you’re already on medications for diabetes or have low blood sugar.
Diuretic effect: Its diuretic properties might affect sodium absorption and may increase the risk of dehydration. Stay hydrated and monitor your body’s response.
Other health conditions: If you have kidney or heart issues, or are on medications, check with a healthcare professional before taking shatavari to avoid interactions.

Never self-medicate with shatavari. An expert can assess your health and recommend the right dosage to avoid complications.

Is Shatavari Safe to Take During Periods?

Yes, shatavari can be safely taken during your period. It helps regulate menstrual cycles, ease cramps, and reduce discomfort caused by hormonal imbalances. Its ability to support a healthy inflammatory response can also soothe bloating and other period-related symptoms.

Can Men Benefit from Shatavari for Fertility?

Yes, there are shatavari benefits for men too. It acts as an aphrodisiac, boosting testosterone levels and libido. Shatavari may also improve sperm production and seminal quality, making it a valuable herb for couples trying to conceive.
To sum up, the benefits of shatavari for female fertility have been recognised in Ayurveda for centuries. It can help create a fertile environment for conception. However, its effectiveness varies from person to person, and it might not be the right fit for every body. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting shatavari, and pair it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management for the best results.

FAQs on Is Shatavari Really Effective for Female Fertility?

Does shatavari help in getting pregnant?
Shatavari is commonly used to support female fertility. It may help balance hormones, improve ovulation, and create a healthier environment for conception. But it’s best to consult your doctor before starting.
Does shatavari increase oestrogen in females?
Shatavari contains phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds that may mimic oestrogen in the body. It doesn’t increase oestrogen levels directly, but it may support oestrogen-like activity.