Shatavari Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety + Benefits
Shatavari is an ancient Ayurvedic herb for women. It goes by many impressive names: “the Queen of Herbs,” “She who has a hundred husbands,” and even “curer of one hundred diseases.” In Ayurveda, it’s classified as a rejuvenating Rasayana, whereas in Western Herbalism shatavari is considered to be an adaptogen. As a women’s herb, shatavari is thought to help balance female reproductive health—from regulating the menstrual cycle to supporting fertility, conception, breastfeeding, postpartum recovery, and menopause.
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Shatavari Safety Categorization
Pregnancy Safety:
Caution
Labor Safety:
Caution
Breastfeeding Safety:
Safe
Shatavari Safety Overview
Shatavari is known as the “Queen of Herbs” and it’s among the top reproductive tonics in Ayurveda. It’s also valued in other systems of traditional medicine for its nourishing and adaptogenic properties (Alok et al., 2013; Singh et al., 2016).
Vast traditional knowledge and solid scientific data back up the use of shatavari as a safe galactagogue—an herb that supports breast milk supply.
Clinical studies suggest that shatavari may boost the “milk hormone” prolactin and increase breast milk supply. It’s used either alone or in combination with other galacatagogue herbs and/or mineral and vitamin supplements (Gupta & Shaw, 2011; Birla et al., 2022; Rajni et al., 2023; Joglekar et al., 1967; Sholapurkar, 1986; Sharma et al., 1996; Mehta, 2014).
Shatavari can be safely used in women trying to conceive. Traditional use and limited studies back the use of shatavari for supporting fertility, sexual function, libido, and balancing menstrual cycle irregularities in women (Pandey et al., 2018; Majumdar et al., 2021; Kathar et al., 2024; Majeedi et al., 2016; Gudise et al., 2024).
Ayurveda also views shatavari as safe throughout pregnancy, but some studies suggest it may affect fetal organ development in the first trimester. For this reason, shatavari should be used with caution in early pregnancy. It can be used safely in the second and third trimesters, and Ayurvedic practitioners especially recommend it in the last month of pregnancy (Singh & Lal, 2003; McGuire, 2018; Gallagher, 2018; Gaitondé & Jetmalani, 1969; Pandey et al., 2005; Goel et al., 2006; Youssef et al., 1997).
Shatavari is also traditionally used to prevent threatening miscarriage and preterm labor. It’s classified as an anti-abortifacient plant and is thought to block or reduce the effects of oxytocin on the uterus. Consult with an experienced herbalist or practitioner before using it for this purpose (Anu et al., 2017; Mayoka et al., 2022).
Since shatavari may have oxytocin-blocking action on the uterus, caution is suggested with its use during birth. It may hypothetically stall or slow labor contractions. There are also no traditional data about shatavari use during labor (Anu et al., 2017).
What is Shatavari?
Shatavari (Asparagus recemosus) is also known as wild asparagus. Shatavari is a thorny climbing perennial with pine-like leaves, white, fragrant flowers, and a complex network of tuberous roots. The dried roots of the plant are used medicinally (Alok et al., 2013).
One shatavari plant can produce up to 100 tubers, which is how it got its name: shata – one hundred, and vari – roots (Alok et al., 2013).
It’s from the one hundred roots of each plant and the benefits it’s valued for that shatavari got its other names like “she who can have a hundred husbands” and “she who can cure one hundred diseases.”
Shatavari grows throughout India, Sri Lanka, and the Himalayas up to an altitude of 1,500 m. It’s also found in parts of Indonesia, Australia, and tropical Africa (Alok et al., 2013; Singh et al., 2016).
Shatavari Benefits, Actions & Energetics
Energetics
- Sweet
- Bitter
- Cooling
In Ayurveda, shatavari is used primarily to correct Pitta dosha and secondarily Vata dosha (Gudise et al., 2024).
It can increase Kapha due to its heavy nature. For this reason, it’s not suitable for those with excess Kapha (too much bodily fluids and mucus, sluggishness, bloating, fatigue).
Shatavari has a building nature, making it great for women who need more nourishment and grounding in different reproductive phases.
It’s considered to be especially well-suited for those with excess Pitta in the body, which often comes up as too much heat and inflammation.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), shatavari is believed to have a positive effect on the energy of the heart. It is said to be revered by Buddhists, yogis, and monks for its ability to open the heart.
When it comes to astroherbalism, shatavari is a moon plant. It’s nourishing, moisturizing, and has an affinity for the female reproductive system.
Actions and Benefits
In Western Herbalism, shatavari is considered to be an adaptogen—an herb that helps increase resilience to stress. It supports the nervous system and mental function. For this reason, shatavari may be beneficial for women who face reproductive struggles due to stress. This action also extends to shatavari’s benefits for women undergoing menopause (Singh et al., 2016).
Shatavari is also an antispasmodic herb—it helps relax muscles and relieve cramps and spasms in the body. This often helps with digestion but may extend to its benefits during postpartum and breastfeeding. Its relaxant action may aid breast milk letdown (Mayoka et al., 2022).
As a uterine tonic, shatavari may help tone the uterus before pregnancy and after birth (Kathar et al., 2024).
Due to its astringent action, shatavari is also traditionally used to soothe peptic ulcers (Singh et al., 2016).
In both Western Herbalism and Ayurveda, shatavari is considered to be a beneficial herb for breastfeeding. It’s purported to support smooth breastfeeding and support breast milk supply in new mothers (Singh et al., 2016).
Connected to its nourishing action, shatavari is also a demulcent—it soothes and moisturizes mucous membranes.
Additionally, shatavari has antibacterial action. It might be useful for women who struggle with genital and urinary tract infections (Singh et al., 2016).
Active Compounds
Shatavari contains phytoestrogens—plant compounds that mimic the action of estrogen in the body. The phytoestrogens in shatavari are steroidal saponins called Shatavarins. They likely contribute to the plant’s hormone-balancing action on the female reproductive system (Joshi, 2016).
Aside from phytoestrogens, shatavari contains an array of active compounds including flavonoids, quercetin, rutin, and amino acids. Shatavari root powder is a good source of fiber, which makes up about 17% of its content. The insoluble and soluble fiber in shatavari boosts gut health and supports healthy digestion and immunity (Mandal et al., 2016; Alok et al., 2013; Birla et al., 2022; Rajni et al., 2023).
Shatavari also contains vitamins and trace minerals including folate, vitamins A, C, and K, zinc, manganese, copper, cobalt, calcium, magnesium, iron, and selenium (Mandal et al., 2016; Alok et al., 2013; Birla et al., 2022; Rajni et al., 2023).
Shatavari Traditional Use While Pregnant and Breastfeeding
Shatavari is listed in Ayurvedic medicine texts as an important part of formulas for women’s health disorders. It’s even described as the number one women’s reproductive tonic by some Ayurvedic practitioners (Alok et al., 2013).
Shatavari is considered to be a general tonic and a female reproductive tonic. In Ayurveda, its “male” tonic equivalent is said to be ashwagandha—although ashwagandha also offers benefits for women and shatavari has some benefits for men as well (Alok et al., 2013).
Still, shatavari is a Rasayana primarily for women. Although we loosely consider Rasayanas to be revitalizing remedies or tonics, the concept of Rasayanas goes deeper. In Ayurveda, it refers to following the path (āyana) of essence (rasa) for achieving homeostasis, preventing disease, and offsetting the process of aging (Majumdar et al., 2021).
Apart from Ayurveda, shatavari is also mentioned in ancient Chinese medicine, Greek, Roman, and Arabic medical literature (Majumdar et al., 2021). In Traditional Chinese Medicine, shatavari is used in herbal formulas for depression. Shatavari has similar action to the Chinese asparagus root, which is more widely used in TCM.
A study of ancient classical Ayurvedic literature mentions several therapeutic uses for the root of shatavari, especially in cases of threatened abortion or miscarriage (Alok et al., 2013).
Shatavari has traditionally been used as a PMS and uterine tonic. It’s thought to strengthen the uterus and prepare it for pregnancy, potentially preventing miscarriages (Kathar et al., 2024).
Ayurvedic texts also mention the use of shatavari as a galactagogue. Galactagogues are herbs traditionally used to support breastfeeding and breast milk supply postpartum (Alok et al., 2013).
Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe Shatavari to increase breast milk production in women who struggle with breast milk supply (Alok et al., 2013). This indication is backed by scientific studies outlined in the breastfeeding research section below.
Some Ayurvedic practitioners also recommend starting shatavari in the 8th or 9th month of pregnancy and continuing into the postpartum.
Toward the end of pregnancy, shatavari is purported to prepare the uterus for labor, strengthen the urogenital system, support fetal development, reduce labor pain, stimulate milk production and support lactation after birth, and reduce the risk of postpartum complications like excessive bleeding or infection.
(If you’re worried about postpartum bleeding, check out this three-part series!)
In Kenya, shatavari is recommended in pregnancy in cases of premature labor (Mayoka et al., 2022).
In the preconception period, shatavari is thought to boost libido, sexual function, and fertility. It’s even sometimes classified as an aphrodisiac (Vajikarana) in Ayurveda.
Summary
Shatavari supports reproductive health, digestion, and stress resilience through its adaptogenic, antispasmodic, and nourishing actions. Rich in phytoestrogens, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it balances hormones, supports fertility, aids breastfeeding, and promotes gut and immune health. Its cooling, grounding nature makes it ideal for excess Pitta but less suitable for those with high Kapha.
Shatavari Safety Classifications in Books & Associations
Unlike some more popular Western herbs, there is sparse information about the safety of shatavari during pregnancy and breastfeeding in various herbalism books and professional associations. Most list that there is insufficient information and err on the side of caution by stating it should be avoided. Some don’t enlist shatavari at all. The sources that mention shatavari are outlined here.
In her “Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health,” Aviva Romm lists Bone and Mills’ “The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety” classification of shatavari within the B2 category: “Drugs that have been taken by only a limited number of pregnancy women and women of childbearing age, without an increase in the frequency of malformations or other direct or indirect harmful effects on the human fetus having been observed. Studies in animals are inadequate or may be lacking, but available data show no evidence of an increased occurrence of fetal damage.”
In Bone and Mills’ “Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. Modern Herbal Medicine,” shatavari is also listed as a female tonic for promoting fertility and ovarian function and as a herb that promotes breast milk production.
The AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook (2013) classifies turmeric as Safety Class 1: safe with appropriate use (with no contraindications in pregnancy and breastfeeding).
AHPA mentions the traditional use of shatavari in pregnancy and breastfeeding, emphasizing Ayurvedic sources that highlight its safety. They explain that traditional Ayurvedic preparations of the herb are unlikely to cause adverse effects, even in the first trimester.
The Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) acknowledges that “shatavari has a long history of use as a galactagogue in India and is included in the official ayurvedic pharmacopeia for this use” (LactMed®, Wild Asparagus). They state that most clinical studies of shatavari in breastfeeding women suggest it supports breast milk supply postpartum with no reported adverse effects, although its safety hasn’t been rigorously studied.
Shatavari for Fertility & Conception Research
Ayurvedic practitioners frequently recommend Shatavari for boosting libido and fertility. It’s a part of various aphrodisiac and tonic herbal formulas for women.
Shatavari is thought to help with hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), follicular growth and development, oocyte quality, and infertility. Scientific studies suggest it may act by reducing oxidative stress and boosting antioxidant levels in the body (Pandey et al., 2018).
Clinical studies have reported its potential to increase fertility (Majumdar et al., 2021).
Based on animal studies, shatavari may support the development of fertilizable eggs and stimulate hormones involved in fertility and ovulation like FSH (Kathar et al., 2024).
In the “Ancient-Modern Concordance in Ayurvedic Plants: Some Examples” from 2001, shatavari is listed as an anti-abortifacient plant.
In one important clinical study, shatavari had comparable effects on ovulation as the ovulation-inducing drug clomiphene (Majeedi et al., 2016).
The study included 40 infertile women with menstrual irregularities and polycystic ovarian disease whose partners had a normal spermiogram. In the test group, women received 6 grams of shatavari root powder twice daily from day 1-14 of the cycle. In the control group, women received clomiphene citrate 50 mg once daily from day 2-6 of the cycle. Shatavari and the drug were given for 2 consecutive cycles (Majeedi et al., 2016).
Shatavari was slightly less effective than clomiphene at increasing follicular growth and ovulation. However, the conception rate was 0% in the shatavari group and 10 % and 5% in the clomiphene group. All in all, shatavari was not as effective as clomiphene but it did have a noticeable beneficial effect on fertility parameters. A larger study would help better assess its effects (Majeedi et al., 2016).
In a clinical study of 70 menopausal women, shatavari improved anxiety, nervousness, vaginal dryness, and loss of libido compared to the placebo (Gudise et al., 2024).
Summary
Traditional and limited scientific data support the use of shatavari for enhancing fertility, sexual function, and libido in women.
Shatavari Research During Pregnancy & Birth
Pregnancy
A 2003 Indian scientific review of shatavari published in the Indian Journal of Medical Sciences states that “In Ayurveda, A. racemosus (shatavari) has been described as absolutely safe for long-term use, even during pregnancy and lactation.” (Singh & Lal, 2003)
However, another Australian scientific review states that “Shatavari has possible teratogenicity so it should be avoided in pregnancy” (McGuire, 2018). This review has received a critique since shatavari is in most herbal teas traditionally recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding (Gallagher, 2018).
In response to the critique, the authors stated that animal studies suggest that shatavari may have an effect on organ development at high doses and that there is not enough human data to establish safe doses in pregnant women. Based on this, they caution against its use in the first trimester, when organogenesis occurs. They say that this doesn’t apply to the use of shatavari in later trimesters or during breastfeeding, which is considered to be safe (McGuire, 2018).
In one study from the ‘60s, cited in the Australian review, isolated saponins from shatavari blocked oxytocin-induced contractions when applied to uterine tissue in the lab (Gaitondé & Jetmalani, 1969). Although not discussed, this may be a hint to support shatavari’s traditional use for preventing early miscarriage.
In the other cited animal studies, shatavari root given orally at high doses to rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits (equivalent to 20 g/day in humans) had estrogenic effects, causing swelling of the mammary glands and genital organs (Pandey et al., 2005).
In pregnant rats, shatavari root at similar doses led to increased resorption of fetuses (aka pregnancy loss) and smaller placentas. The pups experienced teratogenic disorders like leg swelling and intrauterine growth retardation. Live pups had lower body weight and experienced developmental delays (Goel et al., 2006).
It’s important to point out that this study used a methanolic extraction of shatavari, and methanol itself is a teratogen (Youssef et al., 1997). It’s impossible to know how much methanol contributed to the observed teratogenic effects in the study.
A methanol extraction is also likely to be much higher in steroidal saponins, which have strong estrogenic action. This may also explain the higher rate of adverse effects in pregnancy in the animal study (AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook (2013).
Based on these findings, however, the researchers concluded that shatavari should be used cautiously in pregnancy, as exposure during early pregnancy may cause damage to the offspring. They add that—although shatavari is often used in combination with other herbs and at much lower doses—more evidence is needed before we know whether and in what amounts it’s safe in pregnant women, especially early on (McGuire, 2018).
This is valid. Any studies showing potential risks to the pregnancy and offspring merit attention, even if they go against traditional and clinical data. The main issue with this study, though, is that it used a methanol extract, which is very different from how shatavari is used traditionally.
There are no studies to support the traditional use of shatavari in the last trimesters of pregnancy.
Summary
Shatavari is traditionally considered safe throughout pregnancy in Ayurveda, but animal studies suggest it may carry some risk at high doses in the first trimester. Although it’s uncertain how animal findings may apply to women, it’s enough to warrant caution in the first trimester.
Labor
One Indian case report mentions the use of an Ayurvedic enema with shatavari and two other herbs (bala/country mallow and arjuna) in milk to prevent premature labor in a woman 33 weeks pregnant who started experiencing contractions. The herbal milk enema was given for two days in a row, which stopped the contractions and prevented premature labor (Anu et al., 2017).
The authors explain that the herbs used have anti-oxytocic and blood-vessel-dilating properties, which may help soothe premature contractions (Anu et al., 2017).
Although some sources mention that shatavari may help prepare the body for labor and reduce labor pain and duration, no studies or reports are available to confirm this.
Since shatavari is said to have oxytocin-blocking action on the uterus, caution is warranted with its use in labor. Based on this case report and its traditional use for preventing miscarriages and premature labor, it may stall or slow labor contractions.
Shatavari Research During Breastfeeding
Several clinical studies have examined the effects of shatavari on breast milk supply and baby health postpartum. Where shatavari was used in combination with other herbs or supplements, it’s impossible to say how much it contributed to the observed benefits.
Shatavari Alone
A study of 60 breastfeeding mothers who reported low breast milk supply tested the fresh roots of shatavari (at 20 mg/kg, 3 times daily) against placebo rice powder for 30 days. The babies were 2.8 months old on average. Women who received shatavari had a 33% increase in prolactin compared to a 10% increase with the placebo. Baby weights also increased more in the shatavari group (16% vs 6%), and women taking shatavari rated their and their babies’ happiness higher. No side effects were noted (Gupta & Shaw, 2011).
The downside of this study is that it also included women for nonspecific reasons, like their baby crying after feeding, breast pain while breastfeeding, loss of appetite, or anxiety. This makes it harder to tease apart how shatavari affected milk supply.
Another double-blind study compared a granola bar containing shatavari to an identical placebo bar without shatavari. 78 women who planned on breastfeeding were included toward the end of pregnancy. They were given the bars 3 days after birth. Women taking the shatavari bar reported greater milk volumes and a shorter time to breast fullness compared to women taking the placebo bar. The shatavari bar also received better scores for taste (Birla et al., 2022).
However, such a high C-section rate (78% of all women) brings into question the whole approach to women, birth, and breastfeeding in this study.
In another study, 60 postpartum women were given either 10 grams daily of shatavari root powder or nothing. On day 91, the prolactin levels increased more in the shatavari group. The significance of this finding or how it affected breastfeeding is not clear (Rajni et al., 2023). This study is more interesting because it analyzed shatavari’s nutritional and mineral content.
They found that shatavari is a great source of calcium, iron, antioxidants, and fiber. Therefore, shatavari may also support breast milk supply by providing essential nutrients for breastfeeding moms (Rajni et al., 2023).
Shatavari in Combination with Other Herbs/Supplements
The studies in this section tested shatavari with other herbs or supplements, so it’s hard to say how much shatavari contributed to the observed effects.
In a study from the ‘60s, 15 postpartum women who reported low breast milk supply were given a supplement containing shatavari (40 mg of a concentrated extract), calcium (dicalcium phosphate 400 mg), and an Ayurvedic mineral supplement (Suvarnamakshika Bhasma). They took 2 tablets twice daily after meals. Eleven of the 15 women reported an increase in milk supply; 4 reported a dip in milk supply after stopping the regimen and another increase after restarting (Joglekar et al., 1967).
Another Indian study from the ‘80s involved 40 women who complained of insufficient milk supply at 5 days postpartum. They were given an herbal supplement containing shatavari (200 mg), ashwagandha (100 mg), fenugreek, licorice, and garlic. Each woman took 2 capsules 3 times daily. By day 4, no babies required supplementary feeding. By weighing the babies before and after each feeding on day 5, the authors concluded that they were taking in enough milk and that shatavari had a positive effect (Sholapurkar, 1986).
This study had several limitations. It wasn’t randomized or tested against a placebo. The study may have been funded by the supplement manufacturer. There’s no mention of providing lactation support to women either, which is key to getting a good latch and ensuring successful breastfeeding long-term. Women were also instructed to breastfeed their babies only 6 to 8 times daily, which is not enough to maximize milk supply.
Another study that enrolled 64 women with breastfeeding problems at 14-90 days postpartum didn’t find any differences between an herbal mixture containing shatavari and a placebo in prolactin levels, baby weight gain, or the amount of formula given after 4 weeks. Women were instructed on breastfeeding techniques and encouraged to exclusively breastfeed. If their baby wasn’t gaining weight, they were randomized to receive the herbal mixture which contained shatavari and 6 other herbs (Sharma et al., 1996).
One uncontrolled, non-blinded study in India involved 1132 women who reported inadequate milk supply. They were given an herbal mixture containing shatavari and other ingredients (cumin, licorice, spinach, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and DHA). In most of the mothers (1049), the supplement seemed to improve breast milk production and increase infant weight. Since no placebo was included and the supplement had so many ingredients, it’s hard to make sense of the findings (Mehta, 2014).
Summary:
Most clinical studies suggest that shatavari may support breast milk production and help with low supply, either when used alone or in combination with other herbs. Remember that herbs are never a replacement for getting proper lactation support.
Shatavari Side Effects, Interactions & Precautions
Side Effects
In clinical trials, shatavari had no adverse effects. Herbal compendiums also don’t mention any adverse effects of shatavari. It’s traditionally considered to be a very safe herb.
Since shatavari is heavy in nature, it may cause gas or constipation in some people who are sensitive or who use it at higher doses. Shatavari also supports digestion, though, so it’s unlikely to cause digestive issues in most people.
Shatavari may reduce stomach acid, which is beneficial for ulcers but may be problematic for people with low stomach acid.
There are reports of allergic reactions in some people who take shatavari. If you’re allergic to asparagus, avoid shatavari since it’s similar.
Interactions
Theoretically, shatavari root may increase urination and electrolyte loss when used with diuretic drugs.
Shatavari root may also theoretically reduce the excretion of lithium and increase its levels in the body.
Since shatavari may affect the heart and kidneys, caution and consulting a doctor is recommended if you have heart disease or a kidney disorder.
Overharvesting Sustainability Issues
Shatavari is considered to be endangered in its natural habitat due to deforestation and destructive harvesting (Bopana & Saxena, 2007).
Be sure to source shatavari from reputable suppliers to help prevent overharvesting in the wild. This also helps conservation efforts and ensures that this valuable plant remains available to all who need it.
Shatavari Dosage, Formulations & How to Use
A common shatavari dosage mentioned in most traditional sources is ¼-½ teaspoon of shatavari root powder per day.
If taking shatavari root tincture, the typical dosage is 4.5 to 8.5 mL per day.
Shatavari is traditionally prepared in milk, ghee, or water and used throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
Traditional recipe:
¼-½ teaspoon Shatavari powder
200 ml milk or a milk substitute
Boil the milk and stir shatavari powder in. Your shatavari tonic is ready to enjoy! You can also add a teaspoon of ghee and honey or shartara (Ayurvedic sugarcane).
Shatavari can also be combined with other herbs like turmeric, ashwagandha, coriander, and chamomile for breastfeeding support.
Shatavari and motherwort are a great postpartum herbal combination for supporting the heart and relaxing into the joys and demands motherhood.
Buy Shatavari
What Is the Bottom Line?
- Shatavari is known as the “Queen of Herbs” and it’s among the top reproductive tonics in Ayurveda. It’s also valued in other systems of traditional medicine for its nourishing and adaptogenic properties.
- Shatavari is safe to use as a galactagogue—an herb that supports breast milk supply.
- Shatavari also supports fertility and helps regulate menstrual cycle irregularities in women.
- Shatavari should be used with caution in early pregnancy since it may affect fetal organ development. It can be safely used in the second and third trimesters.
- Shatavari is also traditionally used to prevent threatening miscarriages and preterm labor. Consult with an experienced herbalist or practitioner before using it for this purpose.
>>>>> Want to know more about adaptogenic herbs for women? Read the monograph on Ashwagandha safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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The founder of Herbal Doula.
Homebirthing and freebirthing mama to four, independent scientist, natural pharmacist, herbalist, doula, birthkeeper, and holistic health and birthrights advocate. Endlessly passionate about creating and sharing empowering holistic health information and birth support. Ana has written 400+ and edited 800+ articles, some of which reached over 1 million people. She is the author of the first book about homebirth in Serbia. Ana has also authored several ebooks and book chapters.