Management of Infertility in Ayurveda

Nowadays, the problem of infertility is becoming common and it is the need of the hour to find a solution. Various factors such as stress, radiation, lack of biological food in the diet, genetic disorders, wrong lifestyle, etc. are the factors responsible for infertility.

Infertility primarily refers to the biological inability of a woman of the reproductive age to conceive.

Allopathic treatment for infertility is financially burdensome for most of the patients whereas the Ayurvedic approach for the treatment is different as it focuses on the psychological aspects as well has a holistic approach.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF INFERTILITY?

Causes Of Infertility In Women Include:

• Ovarian factors such as PCOS
• Tubal factors
• Uterine problems such as Endometriosis
• Menstrual cycle may be affected by factors such as stress, wrong diet and lifestyle.

Male infertility is caused due to the factors which affect their sperm production or transportation such as infections, ejaculation problems, defects in the tubules that transport sperms, etc.

WHAT IS THE AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE OF INFERTILITY?

Infertility is known as Vandhyatva in Ayurveda. In Ayurvedic classics, it is mentioned that fertility is dependent on the following factors:

• Ritu (fertile period i.e. ovulatory cycle)
• Kshetra (reproductive organs)
• Ambu (nourishing fluids)
• Beej (ovum)

Healthy psychological status of the individuals also plays a major role. Factors on which fertility depend are mother, father, atma, satva, satmya and rasa.

In infertility, Vata especially Apana Vata should be taken care of along with other impaired Doshas.

HOW AYURVEDA CAN HELP IN THE TREATMENT OF INFERTILITY?

Ayurveda focuses on the treatment of disorders with the use of herbal remedies, modifications in diet, lifestyle etc.
For infertility, there is a wonder herb known as 'Shatavari' which is used to treat all types of gynecological problems. As the name suggests, the word 'Shatavari' means who possesses hundred husbands or acceptable to many, implying its ability to increase the chances of fertility. This herb is considered as a general as well as a female reproductive tonic. This herb is highly effective in the disorders of the female reproductive tract.

In Ayurvedic practice, the roots of the plant are considered as an effective aphrodisiac, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, galactagogue etc. The roots of this herb are used to produce the most potent healthy sperm and ovum and eventually helps in achieving a healthy pregnancy.

SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION OF SHATAVARI

From pharmacognostic point of view, it was previously included in the family Liliaceae, but now has been shifted to a newly created family Asparagaceae.

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Genus: Asparagus
• Species: A.racemosus

WHAT ARE THE PROPERTIES OF SHATAVARI?

• Rasa (Taste): Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Qualities): Snigdha (unctuous, oily) and Guru (heavy to digest)
• Vipaka: Undergoes sweet taste conversion after digestion.
• Veerya (Potency): Cold
• Effect on Tridosha: Balances Vata and Pitta doshas

(Reference: Dhanwantari Nighantu, Shloka No. 323, 325)

Meaning: According to this shloka, Shatavari is cold in potency, has a bitter taste, useful in tuberculosis and blood disorders. It balances Vata and Pitta doshas, acts as an aphrodisiac, rejuvenating in nature and increases memory, its taste converts into sweet after digestion, increases intelligence, good for heart, useful in hemorrhoids and diseases related to eyes and colon.

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF ASPARAGUS RACEMOSUS?

The plant is woody climber which grows up to 1-2 m in height. The leaves are small, uniform and pine-needle in shape, flowers are arranged in the form of small spikes, the roots are tuberous, succulent, finger-shaped clustered.

WHAT ARE THE CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS OF A.RACEMOSUS?

It is known to possess a wide range of phytochemicals such as steroidal saponins, polycyclic alkaloid, furan compound, carbohydrates, sterols, trace minerals etc.

HOW SHATAVARI HELPS IN INFERTILITY?

Shatavari is considered as the best herb for female infertility.

• Shatavari enhances folliculogenesis and ovulation. In this way, it prepares the womb for conception and prevents the chances of miscarriage.
• It stimulates the hemopoietic function and also improves the functions of accessory sex glands.
• Oestrogen dependent glycogen is the energy source for the female reproductive system. Estrogen increases the glycogen content in the uterus. In research, it was found that Shatavari causes an increase in uterine glycogen without altering serum estrogen and progesterone.
• A.racemosus preparations are also recommended in the cases of threatened abortion. The rasayana and anti-oxidant properties of Shatavari help in modulating various immune processes. These properties also prevent the formation of lipid-peroxides at the placental level.
• Stress also plays a major role in infertility. Being an adaptogen herb, Shatavari improves the body's ability to cope up with stress. It also reduces oxidative stress and free radicals within the system. Its anti-stress properties are due to the presence of flavonoids, saponins and polyphenols. They help in reducing the production of stress hormones. Hence, Shatavari is a very useful herb in the management of stress and mental depression as well.
• It is also very helpful in menstrual complaints such as irregular bleeding, PCOS, tubal blockages, dysmenorrhea etc.

SHATAVARI CAPSULES BY PLANET AYURVEDA

For the manufacture of Shatavari Capsules, Planet Ayurveda uses the standardized extract of the herb. These capsules contain 500 mg of standardized extract in the vegetarian shell. Capsules manufactured by Planet Ayurveda are free from chemicals, artificial flavors and preservatives. They rejuvenate the whole body and act as a wonderful tonic. These capsules do not cause any side effects and can be taken for longer period.

Dose: 1-2 capsules to be taken twice daily with plain water after taking meals.

Is Shatavari helpful in Menopause?

Menopause or Rajonivritti is one of the most significant milestones in a woman's life which marks the closure of menstrual life.

Nowadays, the problems during menopause in women have become a cause of concern. A large number of patients suffering from this disorder is not satisfied with the treatment provided by modern medicine.

Modern medicine prescribes treatment such as HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) by which one can get relief in the symptoms associated with menopause but it has a wide range of secondary health complications such as endometrial cancer, vaginal bleeding, breast cancer etc. On the other hand, this therapy is not much effective in psychological manifestations during this stage. The long term usage of sedatives, hypnotics, anxiolytic drugs etc. lead to various side effects such as drowsiness (feeling abnormally sleepy or tired), loss of memory, allergic reactions etc. Thus, modern science mainly concentrates on tackling the physical problems of menopause but the psychological aspect is most often neglected.

AYURVEDIC CONSTITUTION AND DOSHA IN MENOPAUSE

According to Ayurveda, the tridosha system in Ayurveda generally serves as a central guiding principle. These three doshas are Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Recognizing which dosha dominates the body, this will help to identify which treatment best match the constitution.

1. During Vata-dominant menopause, there will be symptoms such as:

• Nervousness
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Mild hot flushes
• Poor skin tone
• Vaginal dryness
• Depression

2. Women whose menopause is dominated by Pitta have symptoms such as:

• Angry outbursts
• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTI’s)
• Skin rashes
• Irritability

3. Women whose menopause is dominated by Kapha Dosha, its natural elements water and earth can manifest heaviness in the body. There are symptoms such as:

• Feeling tired
• Weight gain
• Sleepiness
• Slow digestion
• Fluid retention
• Fungal infections

HOW AYURVEDA CAN HELP IN THE TREATMENT OF MENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS?

According to Ayurvedic texts, Rasayana is the only way to combat the symptoms associated with menopause.

Here, Rasayana refers to the means of obtaining the optimum nourishment to the Rasadi Dhatus. Thus, Rasayana is considered as the specialized type of treatment which influences the Dhatus, Srotas and Agni which helps in an overall improvement and maintenance of the living tissues and also helps in the prevention of aging, improving resistance against diseases, bodily strength and improves mental faculties as well.

One such herb that is regarded as Rasayana in Ayurveda is Shatavari which proves beneficial to women in all stages of life.

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION OF SHATAVARI

Shatavari is a tall, climbing and thorny shrub which can grow 1-2 meters tall. The roots are light pale to brown in color and they are soft and pliable. The leaves are small, uniform and pine needles. Its flowers are white in color having small spikes. The fruits are round berries having purple to black color. It belongs to the family Asparagaceae.

MEDICINAL PARTS OF SHATAVARI

The roots of this plant are mainly used for therapeutic purposes.

PHYTOCHEMISTRY OR ACTIVE CONSTITUENTS OF SHATAVARI

It is a good source of phytochemicals such as steroidal saponins, isoflavones, alkaloids, mucilage, oligosaccharides etc.
In addition to phytochemicals, the roots are a rich source of copper, magnesium, cobalt, zinc, calcium, selenium, potassium, vitamins such as Vitamin A and C, essential fatty acid such as gamma linoleic acid etc.

AYURVEDIC PROPERTIES OF A. RACEMOSUS

• Rasa (Taste): Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter)
• Veerya (Potency): Sheet (Cold)
• Guna (Qualities): Snigdh (Unctuous), Snehana (Oily), Guru (Heavy)
• Vipaka: Madhura (Undergoes sweet taste conversion after digestion)
• Effect on Tridosha: Pacifies Vata and Pitta Doshas.

QUALITIES AND BENEFITS OF SHATAVARI WITH AN ANCIENT REFERENCE

Reference: Bhava Prakasha Nighantu, Guduchyadi Varga, Shloka No. 186-187

Meaning: In this shloka, the qualities and benefits of shatavari are explained. Shatavari is heavy, cold, and bitter in taste and acts as Rasayana (rejuvenative). It promotes intelligence, increases memory power, enhances digestive fire and keeps the body healthy. It is also beneficial for eyes, increases the sperm count, improves the production of breast milk in lactating mothers, and provides strength to the body. It can also be used in case of inflammation, tumor and diarrhea.

IS SHATAVARI HELPFUL IN MENOPAUSE?

Yes, Shatavari is extremely beneficial in menopause.

• Shatavari contains natural phytoestrogens therefore can be used as an alternative to the synthetic HRT (Hormonal Replacement Therapy) which naturally and gently rebalance the estrogen levels.
• Ayurvedic treatment with the use of Rasayanas such as Shatavari is potent, safe, cost-effective, increases longevity and do not cause any side effects.
• It helps to manage the symptoms of menopause such as vaginal dryness, hot flushes, insomnia etc. due to its balancing action of phytoestrogen.
• Shatavari has a cooling action on the body which balances the Agni in the body.
• This herb is helpful in balancing the Sadhak Pitta which governs the emotions and Ranjak Pitta which governs the blood.
• During menopause, there is low ojas (quantifiable liquid in the body which is responsible for overall health, energy and liveliness). Due to this there is a lessened ability to maintain balance. Due to low ojas, the cortisol level, heart rate and blood pressure increase. Shatavari which acts as a Rasayana helps to increase Ojas.
• Many women experience emotional challenges during menopause which also need to be addressed. These include disturbances such as depression, anxiety, anger etc. Shatavari is also useful in combating these psychic symptoms during the menopause.

SHATAVARI CAPSULES BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda offers Shatavari Capsules which are prepared using the standardized extract of the herb Asparagus racemosus.

These capsules contain the goodness of the herb Shatavari without any chemicals, artificial colors or preservatives. Even the shell used for the manufacture of these capsules is 100% vegetarian. The capsules are manufactured in the cleanest environment and the processing and packaging of this herbal product is done with high-end technology with minimal human intervention so as to make the product 100% pure and free from any adulteration. Therefore, Shatavari Capsules by Planet Ayurveda are very effective in dealing with the symptoms of menopause.

Dose: 1-2 capsules twice daily to be taken with plain water after meals.

What are the Health Benefits of Shatavari, Dosage, Various forms & Why Planet Ayurveda’s Shatavari is better than other brands?

In this shloka it is mentioned that shatavari is heavy to digest, unctuous in nature, cold, bitter and sweet in taste. This herb increases strength and digestive fire and is also beneficial for eyes. It increases the sperm count, beneficial for breast related disorders. It acts as a rejuvenative, useful in diarrhea, Vata and Pitta disorders and inflammation. It alleviates tumors, cardiac ailments and disorders of the colons. The sprouts of shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) are light that balances the three doshas and beneficial in hemorrhoids and tuberculosis.

Reference: Bhava Prakasha Nighantu, Guduchiyadi Varga, Shloka No. 186-188

Shatavari has been used in Ayurveda since ancient times to support the overall health, especially for the females as a support for the reproductive system where the pitta dosha is the dominating one. It is regarded as the best rejuvenating tonic for the female reproductive system. This herb is not only useful for young girls but also helpful for the old women during their natural phases of life such as reproductive and menopause.

Its botanical name is Asparagus racemosus and belongs to the family Asparagaceae.

In the English language, it is known as the buttermilk, wild asparagus, and climbing asparagus.

NAMES IN OTHER LANGUAGES

• Hindi name: Shatavari
• Punjabi name: Chottukelu
• Gujarati and Marathi name: Shatavari
• Arabic name: Shakakul
• Malayalam name: Nunggarei
• Bengali name: Satamuli
• Konkani name: Shatavari
• Urdu name: Satawar

DESCRIPTION

Shatavari is a thorny herb that grows up to the height of one to two meters. Its roots are light pale to brown in color. Leaves are like pine needles, uniform and small in shape. Flowers are white colored with small spikes. Its fruit is purple to black in color. The phytochemicals such as alkaloids, isoflavones, shatavarins, etc present in it promote good health and strengthen the immune system.

PART USED

It's roots and leaves are commonly used for therapeutic purposes.

NUTRIENTS PRESENT IN SHATAVARI

Nutrients present in Shatavari are manganese, cobalt, copper, and zinc. Besides minerals, it also contains vitamins like ascorbic acid and vitamin A. The essential fatty acid such as gamma-linolenic acid present in it is used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, arthritis, heart disease, and high cholesterol levels and depression.

WHAT ARE THE AYURVEDIC AND MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF SHATAVARI?

Ayurvedic Properties Are:

• Rasa (Taste): Madhura (sweet) and tikta (bitter)
• Guna (Qualities): Snigdha (oily) and guru (heavy)
• Veerya (Potency): Sheeta (cold)
• Vipaka (Resultant): Madhura (sweet)
• Karma (Effect on dosha): It pacifies vata and pitta dosha

Medicinal Properties:

• Immunomodulatory
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-cancerous
• Anti-diabetic
• Antidiarrheal
• Aphrodisiac
• Anti-candida
• Antimicrobial
• Adaptogenic
• Antidepressant

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF SHATAVARI?

1. Infertility

Infertility has become a common problem these days that usually affects 10 to 20% of couples. Being an effective tonic it is used for both males as well as females to overcome the sexual diseases. It enhances the sexual activity in males, maintains the hormonal imbalance and treats various sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction, etc.

In females, it increases the libido, reduces the inflammation, enhances ovulation process and maintains the hormonal balance. It also prevents the miscarriage and prepares the womb for conception. After the delivery, it maintains the hormonal level and normalizes the uterus. Shatavari is also useful in other female related disorders like dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, and premenstrual syndrome. It can be taken during menstruation.

2. Immuno-stimulant

Its roots and root extracts play an important role in stimulating the immune cells that fight against infection and kills the infection causing germs. During infection, the immunity gets suppressed and this herb stimulates the immune system which speeds up the recovery from the disease.

3. Dysentery

Various researchers have stated that Shatavari is used as an herbal remedy for treating dysentery and diarrhea. It works as an antidiarrheal that reduces the frequency of stools and gastrointestinal motility. It is due to the presence of flavonoids that reduces the excretion of fluids and electrolytes in the stools.

4. Lactation

Shatavari has been used in Ayurveda system of medicine for enhancing the breast milk in the lactating mothers. It contains a hormone called prolactin that promotes the secretion of milk. Its root powder is given for enhancing the milk production. The level of this hormone is 3 times more in the pregnant woman than those who are not using Shatavari.

5. Liver Disease

Shatavari plays an important role in protecting the liver against diseases caused due to the toxins, drugs and free radicals which raises the liver enzymes in the blood. Increased levels of enzymes indicate the damage of liver. This herb reduces free radicals and improves the liver's health. Its roots are very helpful in the regeneration process of the liver.

6. Gastric Ulcers

Shatavari plays an important role in treating gastric ulcers that are formed on the inner lining of the stomach. These ulcers cause symptoms like diarrhea, pain, vomiting, spasms, and cramps. Increase in the level of free radicals causes the formation of ulcers, thus Shatavari increases the antioxidant enzymes and protects against the harmful action of free radicals.

7. Stress and Depression

Shatavari is an adaptogenic herb that improves the ability of the body to adapt the stress. This herb improves the production of chemicals that have anti-depressant and anti-stress activities. It has calming effects on the brain and the body that makes feel relaxed.

VARIOUS FORMS OF SHATAVARI IN WHICH IT CAN BE USED

It can be used in the form of capsules, tablets, churna.

DOSAGE

Shatavari Churna - 3 to 6 grams per day.

And Shatavari Capsules - 1-2 capsules twice daily with milk or water.

WHY PLANET AYURVEDA'S SHATAVARI CAPSULES ARE BETTER THAN OTHER BRANDS?

With the rising demands for natural supplements and natural products, it is becoming very difficult for everyone to choose the best and right supplements for them that maintains their health.

Planet Ayurveda's Shatavari capsules are prepared from the pure and standardized extract of Shatavari which shows very effective results in various health ailments.

• These capsules are 100% pure, are of the best quality and completely natural.
• These are free from preservatives, chemicals, fillers, colors and additives and has no side effects.
• These supplements are prepared with high hygienic standards.
• These are not tested on the animals.
• This formulation strictly follows the principles of Ayurveda and are formulated under the guidance of MD Ayurveda experts.
• These are very effective and can be used safely in all age groups.
• This formulation is available in the market at a very reasonable rate.
• It is the safest option to choose as a dietary supplement to the daily routine.