Author(s): Anima Tripathi, Vivek K Pandey, Ravi Bhushan, AN Sahu and Pawan K Dubey

Abstract: Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root extract has been used as herbal reproductive tonic in traditional as well as ayurvedic systems of medicine for a long time. The molecular mechanism by which shatavari regulate female reproductive health remains poorly understood. Studies carried out on experimental mammals suggest that bioactive gradients (sarsasapogenin and shatavarin I-IV) of shatavari decreases generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduce oxidative stress in ovarian follicles. Further, herbal plants based scientific research suggests that medicinal herbs have the ability to regulate estrogen or progesterone levels and may accountable to maintain reproductive health. In other hand, the increased levels of ROS and oxidative stress due to exposure of endocrine disruptors like phthalates may affect follicular occyte and its associated cells by damaging cellular DNA. The granulosa cells as well as oocyte apoptosis within the follicular microenvironment deteriorate oocyte quality. Poor quality of oocyte directly affects fertilization, implantation and pregnancy rates and increases abortion rate. Thus, based on existing animal as well as human studies, we are in belief that bioactive ingredients of shatavari could be used as herbal female revitalize agent to cure various incurable reproductive abnormalities