Clinical study finds shatavari extract reduces hot flashes and night sweats in perimenopausal women

A recently published clinical study tested the effects of an Asparagus racemosus root extract on perimenopausal symptoms including hot flashes and night sweats¹. The extract, also known as shatavari, is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for female reproductive health, the study explains. Perimenopause is characterized by fluctuations in hormones and a depletion of ovarian follicles, the study also explains, stating that nearly 80% of women are affected by the associated vasomotor symptoms (VMS), such as hot flashes and night sweats. The researchers aimed to investigate the symptom relief of the plant-based intervention on the symptoms. The study, “Clinical assessment of CL22209, a standardized proprietary extract of Asparagus racemosus, for mitigating vasomotor and menstrual symptoms in perimenopausal women:A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study,” was published in Functional Foods in Health and Disease in July 2025. The extract used in the study was Xeya Modern Shatavari from NXT USA, which is standardized to 15% shatavarins.

In this 120-day trial, 75 female participants, ages 40 – 50 years with mild to moderate VMS received either 50 mg or 100 mg of the extract daily or a placebo. Changes in menopausal Rating Scale (MRS) scores were the primary measurement, along with Hot Flash Weekly Weighted Score (HFWWS), Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire (MSQ) score, follicle count via ultrasonography, and serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and 17β-estradiol (E2). Skin and hair quality were also self-reported by the participants.

What are the impacts of shatavari on hot flashes?

On day 120, scores of MRS scores and HFWWS were significantly reduced compared to baseline and placebo, with the total MRS score in the 50 mg group reduced by 51.4% and the total MRS score in the 100 mg group reduced by 73%, while the placebo group decreased by 22.8%.

• MSQ scores improved from baseline in the test groups as well, with the 50 mg group showing mean improvements of 166.75% and the 100 mg group showing 178.8%, compared to the placebo, which showed 36% improvement
• Hot flashes decreased gradually and significantly with the 50 mg group and 100 mg showing decreases of 27.62% and 39.81% respectively, compared to a 7.76% drop in the placebo group

Ovarian follicle count also increased in both treatment groups, and a dose-dependent change of FSH, LH, AMH, and E2 levels was also seen.

The value of adding a standardized shatavari extract to your formula

Overall, the researchers stated the extract was demonstrated to be a safe and effective intervention for the symptoms and regulation of hormones. “The study provides the first clinical evidence of CL22209’s dual central and peripheral endocrine modulation, positioning it as a novel functional food for integrative women's health support during the menopausal transition,” they concluded.

“Women’s concerns have been neglected for too long,” stated Eric Anderson, managing director NXT USA, in a September 4 press release. “This study shows real benefits for women dealing with perimenopausal symptoms, dramatically improving quality of life for the participants,” said. “This is the NXT standard of comprehensive clinical evidence—incorporating our comprehensive ‘four pillars of validation’ in study design that measures patient reporting, physician assessment, biomarkers and physical tests. This is the most comprehensive study on shatavari published to date.”

Xeya Modern Shatavari is extracted using a traditional method involving water and alcohol, the press release explains, with consistency testing for batches. “This is what a modern extract should be,” said Anderson. “It’s a fully standardized extraction, giving a more concentrated, quality material.”

Earlier this year, NXT USA launched Xeya Shatavari 15% at Natural Products Expo West 2025². The ingredient is intended to support women’s hormonal health at various life stages.

References

1. Yadav, P.; Yadav S.; Vedururu SS.; Kumari, G. Clinical assessment of CL22209, a standardized proprietary extract of Asparagus racemosus, for mitigating vasomotor and menstrual symptoms in perimenopausal women: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Functional Foods in Health and Disease 2025; 15(7): 415 - 443. DOI: DOI: 10.31989/ffhd.v15i7.1684
2. McEvoy, E. New ingredient by NXT USA to support women’s health will be launched at Expo West 2025 https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/new-ingredient-by-nxt-usa-to-support-women-s-health-will-be-launched-at-expo-west-2025 (accessed 2025-09-08).