Author(s): Rakesh K Joshi

Abstract: Aromatic and medicinal plants have played key roles in the lives of tribal peoples living in the Himalaya by providing products for both food and medicine. Asparagus racemosus (Asparagaceae) is an important medicinal plant of tropical and subtropical India. Its medicinal usage has been reported in the Indian and British Pharmacopoeias and in traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha. Asparagus racemosus has been described to use as antioxidant, immune stimulant, anti-dyspepsia and anti-tussive effects. It is also useful in treatment of epilepsy, kidney disorders, chronic fevers, excessive heat, stomach ulcers and liver cancer, increases milk secretion in nursing mothers and regulates sexual behaviors. The major active constituents of Asparagus racemosus are steroidal saponins. Isoflavones, asparagamine, racemosol, polysaccharides, mucilage, vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, Mg, P, Ca, Fe, and folic acid present in roots. Other primary chemical constituents of Asparagus are essential oils, asparagine, arginine, tyrosine, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin, and rutin), resin, and tannin. It is a well known Ayurvedic rasayana which prevent ageing, increase longevity, impart immunity, improve mental function, vigor and add vitality to the body. It is also used in nervous disorders, dyspepsia, tumors, inflammation, neuropathy and hepatopathy.