Asparagus
Asparagus officinalis
Asparagus officinalis, commonly known as asparagus, is a traditional plant with origins in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Traditionally, it has not been extensively used for medicinal purposes across various cultures. Scientific evidence suggests that 20-hydroxyecdysone derived from A. officinalis may have benefits such as reduced arm and abdominal fat, increased fat oxidation, and improved insulin sensitivity among resistance-trained males. Additionally, there is low-certainty evidence indicating potential improvements in survival rates, response rates, quality of life (QoL), and immune function when A. officinalis is used in combination with conventional treatments for cancer care. Synergistic benefits were observed from the combined use of high-intensity interval training and asparagus root extract supplementation, showing enhanced effects on oxidative and inflammatory markers. Green-synthesized silver nanoparticles from Asparagus officinalis root extract also demonstrated increased antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities compared to ethanolic extracts. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been reported for A. officinalis.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Asparagus officinalis-derived 20-hydroxyecdysone supplementation was associated with reduced arm and abdominal fat, increased fat oxidation, and improved insulin sensitivity in resistance-trained males.
- The combined intervention of high-intensity interval training and asparagus root extract supplementation showed synergistic improvements in oxidative and inflammatory markers compared to either intervention alone.
- A. officinalis products may improve survival, response rates, QoL and immune function when combined with conventional treatments in cancer care, but evidence certainty is low.
- The study found that green-synthesized silver nanoparticles from Asparagus officinalis root extract showed enhanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities compared to the ethanolic extract.
Frequently asked questions
What is Asparagus?
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Asparagus?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Asparagus; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Asparagus officinalis-derived 20-hydroxyecdysone supplementation was associated with reduced arm and abdominal fat, increased fat oxidation, and improved insulin sensitivity in resistance-trained males.
How strong is the evidence for Asparagus?
The strongest finding for Asparagus carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Asparagus safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Asparagus in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Asparagus interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Asparagus in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Asparagus?
Asparagus is also known as: Спаржа лекарственная, asperge.
Is Asparagus a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Synergistic Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training and Asparagus officinalis L. Root Extract Supplementation on Metabolic Regulation, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Overweight and Obese Adults. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effects of Asparagus-Derived 20-Hydroxyecdysone Supplementation on Fat Oxidation and Insulin Sensitivity in Resistance-Trained Males. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Asparagus officinalis potentially supports cancer care: a systematic review of randomized and non-randomized clinical studies. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles using Asparagus officinalis and their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities: in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies. literature abstract metadata