Benefits And Side Effects Of Wild Yam Root

Nature gives us gifts in many forms amongst which wild yam plant is one. The benefits of wild yam root one gets are manifold.

What Is Wild Yam Root?

Wild yam with the scientific name Dioscorea villosa L. is a plant that is native to North America. It has many other names such as colic root, American yam, devil’s bones, and four-leaf yam. It is a flowering plant and has dark green leaves and vines that are different in shape and size. However, the plant is well recognized due to the tuberous roots it has. These roots since the 18th century have been included in folk medication to treat upset stomachs, menstrual cramps, and coughs.

[Also Read: Home remedies for dry cough with pain in chest]

In today's world, it is often processed into topical creams to lessen symptoms linked to menopause and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is considered a "natural alternative" to estrogen therapy.

Diosgenin, the chemical in it is converted into varied steroids like dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and estrogen in the labs.

Benefits Of Wild Yam Root

1. Menopause Symptoms

According to traditional medicinal practices, wild yam is an alternative to estrogen replacement therapy to treat menopause symptoms. According to these practices, wild yam may stabilize or increase estrogen levels and relieve symptoms.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

The same traditional medicine advocates trust that it has anti-inflammatory qualities and so helps in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have found that yam might have the quality of reducing the inflammation-the common outcome of RA.

3. Blood Sugar Regulation

This plant also has dioscoretine, which aids in regulating blood sugar levels. This is the reason why diabetics are suggested to have this root.

4. Cramps And Muscle Pain

Wild yam possesses anti-spasmodic qualities. This quality lowers muscle spasms. As such wild yam lowers muscular pains and cramps associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

5. Wild Yam Benefits Fertility

Traditionally wild yam is known to treat uterine and ovarian spasms, inclusive of dysmenorrhea. When it is used for infertility it optimizes the estrogen levels and enhances the quantity and quality of cervical mucus thereby increasing the fertility chances.

It is also an antispasmodic and as such soothes oviductal and fallopian tube spasm, which can mingle with implantation and conception.

Other Benefits Include

• A natural alternative to estrogens.
• Treating postmenopausal vaginal dryness.
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
• Brittle and weak bones (osteoporosis).
• Enhancing energy and sexual stamina in women and men.
• Increasing memory and thinking capabilities.
• Gallbladder issues.
• Increasing hunger.
• Diarrhea.
• Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea).
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
• Infertility.
• Menstrual disorders.
• Anti Aging.

How To Use Wild Yam Root?

Direct intake of wild yam is very rare as it is too much bitter. As such it is better to take it in the following methods;

• Capsule
• Tincture
• Tablet
• Powder
• Cream
• Tea

How much quantity of wild yam to take relies on many factors like;

• Health condition
• Age
• The formulation behind wild yam

However, keep in mind to read the usage guidelines for each type you are using. The more safe way is to consult your doctor about how to take it.

Side Effects Of Wild Yam Root

Although using it on the skin is usually safe a few people who are allergic and sensitive to it may see some skin conditions such as irritation, flaring, and so on.

One should also take it in the exact quantities as suggested or if taken as an over-the-counter treatment, take in small amounts as larger amounts may cause nausea and vomiting.

It interacts with hormones so people with conditions such as uterine fibroids, a few types of cancer, and endometriosis must avoid this.

Children, breastfeeding, and pregnant women should stay away from this. In the same way, persons with protein S deficiency should also stay away as it can increase the chances of blood clots.

There is also estradiol interaction. Estradiol is a hormone that’s present in a few types of birth control and hormone replacement therapies, so talk to your doctor.

Who Should Avoid Wild Yam Roots?

• Pregnant and nursing women
• People with a few types of cancers: breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer
• Women with endometriosis or uterine fibroids
• Protein S deficiency persons
• People on birth control

All in all, wild yam is a good herb however, getting maximum benefits of wild yam root talk to your doctor.