Shatavari – A Promising Alternative to IVF
Infertility is a condition where the couple is unable to reproduce or conceive. Nowadays this issue has become very common due to our improper diet and lifestyle and weak immunity. At present IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a procedure that helps with fertilization and implantation is the main treatment modality. But some individuals despite going through this treatment that too the number of times are unable to conceive. For them, there is a “Ray of Hope” in Ayurveda which helps them to come out from this problem and can give rise to a healthy progeny. This thing can be achieved on the basis of a few parameters and then Ayurvedic treatment modalities can be applied in an appropriate manner.
As we know major causes of infertility are – problems related to gametes, hormonal imbalance, defects in sperms and reduced sperm count, problems related to ovulation, problems related to uterus that won’t create a surrounding for implantation, genetic defects, any disease history, mental tensions, defects in fallopian tubes and so on.
So to deal with this problem currently individuals just know about IVF treatment but there are really effective therapies in an alternative system of medicines that can resolve this problem that too without causing any side effects. Moreover, IVF has some limitations where the fruitful or desirable results can’t be achieved.
Shatavari – A Boon in Case of Infertility
We know that there are various herbs that help in fecundity but Shatavari is the always the first drug of choice that brings the desired results. Shatavari belongs to Asparagaceae family and tuberous roots are used for medicinal purposes. This herb has various active phytochemicals that have a direct effect on the female reproductive system. It is a Rasayanaaushadhi that helps to rejuvenate the affected cells and delays the degenerative changes hence revitalizes the organs and maintains their proper functioning. This herb directly acts on the nervous system hence stimulates the glands to produce a sufficient amount of hormones, maintains the proper neuro-motor activities, stimulates the ovaries for proper egg formation. The main properties of Shatavari as per Ayurvedic classics are as follows:
![Shloka of Shatavari Shloka of Shatavari](https://www.planetayurveda.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/shaloka-2019-07-09.jpg)
(Reference: Dhanwantri Nighantu, Shlok No. 323, 325)
- Rasa (Taste) – Madhura (Sweet) and Tikta (Bitter)
- Guna (Quality) – Snigdha (unctuous in nature) and Guru (heavy to digest)
- Veerya – Sheeta (cold in potency)
- Vipaka – The end product of digestion is Madhura (sweet) in taste
- Effect on Tridoshas – Subside Vata and Pitta dosha
- It acts as Rasayana (Rejuvenative) and Vrushya (Aphrodisiac)
- Improves intellectual power and digestive fire, even promotes strength.
- Beneficial in treating the disorders related to the reproductive system, cardiac problems, diseases of the colon, haemorrhoids, etc.
Alternate of IVF
Ayurveda, an ancient and oldest science but has potent and effective treatment modalities that can even defeat the results of the present system of medical sciences. As we know, Ayurveda has two wings of treatments one is a Shaman Chikitsa (Palliative Care) and other is Shodhana Chikitsa (Purificatory measures).
Here an alternate to IVF is Shodhana Chikitsa which includes Panchakarma procedures. Panchakarma a branch of Ayurveda that deals with the purification or detoxification of the body that cleanses the channels and makes the absorption of the medicines very fast.
In case of impotency, Shatavari is the herb of choice which can be utilized either in the form of taila (oil), ghrita (clarified ghee), churna (powders), vataka (tablets and capsules) and kashaya (decoction) form.
1. Uttar Basti – An Alternate to In Vitro Fertilization
Uttar basti is a procedure where the medicated oils or ghee or decoctions are instilled into the vagina with the help of “Basti Yantra” for a stipulated period of time, under particular temperature, it remains inside the body and absorbs through the uterine mucosa.
2. Garbhashya Purna – Another Alternate to In Vitro Fertilization
In this procedure, the medicated powders are filled for a stipulated period of time directly into the uterus. Shatavari powder is an herb of choice as it improves the function as well as strengthens the uterus.
3. Basti – Another Alternate to In Vitro Fertilization
Medicated enema, where the medicine is instilled through rectum. This therapy helps to stimulate the enteric nervous system hence directly balances the hormones and improves the functions of the reproductive organs.
End Results of These Procedures
- Directly detoxifies and eliminates the toxins from the reproductive organs.
- Rejuvenates the cells of the uterus and ovaries
- Improve the functions of Ovaries
- Promotes follicular development
- Develops the surroundings for implantation of the zygote.
- Regulates the menstrual cycle.
- Even potent enough to treat the structural deformities related to reproductive organs.
- Balances all the hormones
- Clears the blocked fallopian tubes.
Finally develops such an environment that is required for conception, zygote implantation, fetal development and a fruitful progeny.
4. Palliative Care – Shatavari a Supplement or an Alternate to IVF
Though they are effective methods but some people won’t prefer them. Don’t worry for themas there is another option they can go far that – “Palliative care”. The tablets and capsules of Shatavari can be taken on a daily basis as they have the capability to maintain Tridosha balance, stimulate the hormone production, alleviate stress levels, promote follicular development and growth, improve immunity even delay the degenerative decays or changes.
Shatavari Capsules by Planet Ayurveda
Planet Ayurveda offers Shatavari capsules to deal with this problem of infertility, an effective alternative to the IVF. These capsules are prepared from the pure and standardized extract of Asparagus racemosus that are effective to resolve the complications related to conception. The capsules are free from additives, chemicals and are encapsulated in purely vegetarian capsules. These capsules are not only advised for female health but can also be used in males. Those who are not interested to take capsules they can go for “Shatavari Powder“.
Dosage: Shatavari Capsules – 1 to 2 capsules twice / thrice daily, after meals. Shatavari Powder – ½ to 1 teaspoonful twice/ thrice daily, after meals.
In case of impotency, it is better to prefer the capsules or powder with the lukewarm cow’s milk because milk acts as a catalyst which will boost up the action and potency of the medicine. So here, the Anupana (after drink) should be milk.