ShatavariŚatāvarī

As with all traditional herbs, avoid in active flare-ups of the condition you're treating and in anyone with a known allergy to the plant family. Stop and seek medical advice if you develop rash, breathing changes, swelling, digestive upset or any new symptom after starting.

• ✕Uterine fibroids — plain Shatavari root may worsen estrogen-sensitive growth
• ✕Endometriosis and estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer
• ✕Polycystic ovary syndrome with high estrogen patterns
• ✕Severe Kapha imbalance: obesity, edema, heavy mucus, chronic sinus congestion
• ✕Acute kidney disease (mild diuretic action)
• ✕With diuretics, lithium, or estrogen-modulating drugs

Do not use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding without direct supervision by a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner and your GP or obstetrician. Many Ayurvedic herbs have not been studied in pregnancy and traditional cautions apply.

May interact with prescription medications — especially blood thinners, blood pressure and diabetes medications, sedatives, thyroid hormones, immunosuppressants and drugs metabolised by the liver. Always share a complete list of herbs and supplements with your doctor and pharmacist.

Specific to Shatavari: Mild estrogenic activity; can be congesting in Kapha-dominant or damp conditions.

Asparagus family (Asparagaceae) — those with documented asparagus allergy must avoid Shatavari. Reactions include rash, GI upset, and rarely anaphylaxis.