Asparagus racemosus: Many problems, one solution on its phytochemical and pharmacological potential

Abstract

Asparagus racemosus is commonly called as satamuli, satavari, satawar found in low altitudes throughout India and belongs to family Liliaceae. It is an important ethnomedicinal plant of tropical and subtropical India. Asparagus racemosus has seen widely described to benefit an immune stimulant, antioxidant, anti-abortifacient (shatvarin-1), anti-dyspepsia, anti-tussive effects. It is also beneficial for treatment of liver cancer, stomach ulcers, excessive heat chronic fevers, kidney disorders, epilepsy, increases milk secretion in nursing mothers and regulates sexual behaviours. The major active phytoconstitutents to of Asparagus racemosus are asparagamine, racemosol, isoflavones, steroidal saponins, mucilage, Vitamins -A, B₁, B₂, C, E, Mg, P, Ca, Fe, and folic acid present in roots. Asparagus racemosus has been specially suggested of threatened abortion, galactagogue as well as restorative action as it is beneficial in women's complaints. This review summarizes the phytochemical pharmacogenetic and pharmacological aspects of Asparagus racemosus.