Safety and efficacy of Shatavari in women with low libido: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Women with low libido commonly report reduced desire and diminished arousal, along with negative feelings about their physical and emotional satisfaction and overall wellbeing. In line with this evidence, the present study evaluated the potential of Shatavari root extract (300 mg daily) to support healthy sexual function in women experiencing lifestyle-related reductions in sexual desire. A prospective, randomized, single-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed in India. A total of 70 healthy women with low libido characteristics (aged 18-45 years) were allocated to receive active (n = 35) or placebo (n = 35) for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in total Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) score; secondary outcomes were validated sexual-function and psychosocial scores and reproductive/stress hormones from baseline to Day 56. Total FSFI improved significantly more with active than placebo (Active +67.96% vs placebo +7.58%; P < 0.001), with a between-group mean difference at Day 56 of 3.3 points (95% CI 1.6 to 5.0; P = 0.001) and the largest gain in the lubrication domain (P < 0.001). The Female Sexual Encounter Profile-Revised increased (+61.9% vs +4.44%; P = 0.003); the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale decreased (-24.81% vs +7.08%; P < 0.001); Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Sleep Disturbance Short Form 8b scores improved (-21.83% vs -0.06%); and the Fatigue Severity Scale improved (-60.05% vs -4.45%; P < 0.001). Shatavari was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events.