Can shatavari help in endometriosis? - NL-049
Endometriosis is a painful condition where tissue that resembles the endometrium (inner lining of the uterus), starts to grow outside the uterus. This endometrial-like tissue can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines and bladder. Unlike the endometrial tissue, these ‘fake’ tissues do not shed during a menstrual period, leading to chronic inflammation and formation of adhesions and fibrosis in the pelvic organs that can cause many complications such as bowel obstruction and chronic pain. Abnormal tissue growth can irritate and inflame the surrounding tissues and can cause the abdominal or reproductive organs to stick to each other. It is one of the leading causes of infertility in women and also increases the risk of developing ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer. Women suffering from endometriosis may also suffer from depression and anxiety.
It is very difficult to treat endometriosis and it is usually managed by using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), birth control pills and hormonal therapy. Minimally invasive surgery may be required to diagnose and as well as treat endometriosis. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet may also help improve symptoms.
Symptoms of endometriosis
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Heavy bleeding in the periods
- Infertility
- Painful bowel movements and painful urination during periods
- Diarrhoea and constipation during periods
- Painful intercourse
- Abdominal cramps, bloating and nausea
- Mild to severe pain in the pelvic area
Can herbs like shatavari help in endometriosis?
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is a rejuvenating herb well-known for its benefits in nourishing the female reproductive system. Also known as the "Queen of Herbs", shatavari supports women's health and maintains hormonal balance. Shatavari is cooling in nature and as an adaptogen it helps the body manage stress.
Shatavari is extremely beneficial in endometriosis as it is able to reduce oxidative damage and inflammation, correct hormonal imbalances, reduce menstrual cramps, and regulate menstrual cycle. It also reduces the development of adhesions and scar-tissue in the abdominal region. Shatavari moistens tissues and membranes of the digestive tract and female reproductive organs.
Shatavari works as a uterine tonic as it strengthens and nourishes the uterus. It also cleanses the uterus of waste and toxins. The root of shatavari is loaded with a wide range of antioxidant compounds that reduce oxidative damage and improves complications such as hormonal imbalance, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and infertility. [1] Shatavari is also an excellent herb for women going through menopause as its cooling nature helps reduce uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes.
References:
- Pandey et al. Impact of stress on female reproductive health disorders: Possible beneficial effects of shatavari (Asparagus racemosus). Biomed Pharmacother. 2018