Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is a plant that belongs to the Liliaceae family of plants. The plant is interesting foma phytochemical point of view as it may contain a number of phytochemicals that have important health effects. One of the main phytochemicals within the plant, present mainly in the roots, are a group of saponins called shatavarins. These phytochemicals have structures similar to all steroidal saponins in plants, may have reproductive effects and may help reduce the effects of stress. Also present in the roots of the plant are a number of flavonoids including glycosides of quercetin, rutin, hyperoside and diosgenin. Quercetin 3-glucuronide may also be present. Flavonoids are antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory effects. The phytosterols sitosterol and stigmasterol are also present in the roots. The pharmacological activity of the root of the plant include anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antioxidants, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activities.
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