Asparagus
has a 2,000-year history of medicinal use.
Both Chinese and Indian medical traditions attribute to Asparagus the
ability to promote positive emotional states.
This may be linked to steroidal glycosides in the plant that could
conceivably affect the emotional state. In
Ayurvedic (Indian) tradition, Asparagus promotes fertility, promotes milk
production and reduces cramping.
Asparagus
is also diaphoretic, antispasmodic, demulcent, sedative, and tonic.
Recent Chinese studies show that it can lower blood pressure.
The young shoots are medicinal, and high in folic acid, but the root is a
stronger medicine. The seeds have
antibiotic and antispasmodic properties. They
are calming to the stomach and can be used to relieve nausea.
The roots are powerfully diuretic and laxative, capable of
dissolving uric and oxalic acid build-up. Asparagus
roots are probably the most effective herbal treatment for gout and cystitis.
Asparagus roots stimulate both the liver and kidneys and can be useful in
clearing up jaundice, though one must take care to avoid irritating the kidney.
The
German Commission E has approved Asparagus for the treatment of urinary tract
inflammation and for the prevention of kidney stones.
Dosage
for the root tincture is 30-60 drops 3 times daily, of the root tea, 45 to 60
grams of the root (daily) in decoction. Anyone
who has eaten much asparagus will have noticed the effects of the tonic and
cleansing action of the plant through its effect on urine colour, which can, at
times, verge on the spectacular.
