Shatavari extract 20:1 | Asparagus cochinchinensis

Shatavari extract 20:1 | Asparagus cochinchinensis

Properties: Shatavari (Asparagus cochinchinensis) is a valued ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine with a “cooling” and “moistening” profile. It is used primarily to relieve dryness and irritation of mucous membranes and to balance excessive reactivity of the body. Traditionally, it is attributed with adaptogenic properties: supporting stress resilience, mitigating somatic effects of stress, and improving sleep quality. Literature also describes its favorable impact on digestive comfort and fluid balance due to the presence of compounds that help with moisturizing the body. In the context of women’s health, Shatavari is considered a “nourishing” plant that supports vitality and well-being during periods of increased strain.

Scientific reports also indicate that extract from Asparagus cochinchinensis root exhibits antioxidant and neuroprotective properties and has a beneficial effect on the nervous system. It supports trophic factors (e.g., NGF), reduces excessive acetylcholinesterase activity in the hippocampus, and contributes to improved synaptic plasticity— a mechanism essential for cognitive performance. Moreover, A. cochinchinensis stimulates the production of immune cells, strengthening resistance to infections, while preventing excessive spread of inflammation. All these properties show that Shatavari supports not only brain health but also positively influences the functioning of the entire body, promoting overall vitality.

Occurrence: Asparagus cochinchinensis is a perennial herb from the asparagus family. It naturally occurs in East Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam). It has thin, flattened stems, small greenish flowers, and red berries. The herbal raw material consists of the fleshy, spindle-shaped roots of Shatavari, harvested in the autumn-winter season.

Biochemistry: The activity of Shatavari is primarily attributed to a fraction of steroidal saponins— including protodioscin and aspacochinosides— as well as polysaccharides (including fructans/inulins) and lignans. These are accompanied by phenolic compounds from the stilbene and phenylpropanoid groups (e.g., cis-muwinina and asparaginasides. Saponins exhibit surfactant and antioxidant properties, while polyphenolic compounds assist in neutralizing free radicals, which explains the protective cellular effects observed in studies.

Fun fact: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Asparagus cochinchinensis is known as 天门冬 (Tian Men Dong) — which literally means “winter gateway to heaven.”