Description

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Context:

On February 6, 2025, the Ministry of Ayush launched a nationwide campaign titled "Shatavari – For Better Health".

The Ministry of Ayush has also launched the Central Sector Scheme for the Conservation, Development, & Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants.

This campaign is focused on spreading awareness regarding the health benefits of Shatavari. This plant is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, especially in promoting women’s health.

Earlier, National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) has successfully launched campaigns for various medicinal plants, including Amla, Moringa, Giloe, and Ashwagandha.

What is Shatavari plant?

Scientific Name	Asparagus racemosus (family Asparagaceae), also known as Shatavari, Satawar, or Satamuli.
Meaning of Shatavari	“acceptable to many.”
Plant Family	Liliaceae
Appearance	A woody climber reaching 1-2 meters in height, with small, needle-like leaves resembling pine needles, and white flowers with tiny spikes.
Habitat and Distribution	It is Found in shaded, low-altitude areas of tropical climates across Asia, Australia, and Africa.
Cultural Significance	It is Referred to as the “Queen of herbs” in Ayurveda, believed to promote love and devotion.
Medicinal Importance	The dried roots are used medicinally, known for their tonic, diuretic, and galactagogue effects, and for their ability to aid in ulcer healing, likely by enhancing mucosal protection.
Agro-Economic Potential	Shatavari provides an economic opportunities for farmers, particularly in regions where the plant thrives. ₹18.9 Lakhs in financial assistance will be provided to organizations promoting Shatavari, encouraging wider adoption.
Historical References	It is Included in ancient Ayurvedic texts like Charak Samhita and Ashtang Hridyam for treating women's health issues.

Source: PIB

Practice Question

Q. With reference to the "Shatavari – For Better Health" campaign launched by the Ministry of Ayush, consider the following statements:

Shatavari is scientifically known as Asparagus racemosus & it is a woody climber native to tropical climates.
Shatavari has been included in ancient Ayurvedic texts like Charak Samhita & it is recognized primarily for its anti-inflammatory properties.
The campaign is part of the Central Sector Scheme for the Conservation, Development & Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1, 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 3, and 2 only

Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

● Statement 1 is correct: Shatavari is scientifically known as Asparagus racemosus, a woody climber found in tropical regions.

● Statement 2 is incorrect: While Shatavari is included in Ayurvedic texts, it is recognized primarily for its tonic, galactagogue, & diuretic effects, rather than for its anti-inflammatory properties.

● Statement 3 is correct: The campaign is part of the Central Sector Scheme for the Conservation, Development, & Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants.