Wild Yam

Christopher Hobbs:

“Wild yam relieves spasms and inflammation, especially of the digestive tract and uterus and is used for colic, nausea, morning sickness, and gastroenteritis. It is particularly suitable for chronic flatulence. Wild yam is also considered a relaxant and is useful for hysteria, dysmenorrhea, and menstrual cramps. It contains diosgenin, which is used in the synthesis of progesterone through a series of synthetic chemical steps, utilizing a number of solvents. This is the basis for numerous claims made for this herb–that it contains “natural progesterone,” that it contains anabolic compounds that can help weightlifters put on more muscle mass quickly, and that as a natural birth-control herb, it can prevent pregnancy. None of these claims has any basis in fact, according to scientific literature or traditional use. Wild yam is not effective as an anabolic herb, and it neither increases testosterone levels in men, nor is it very effective as a birth-control herb. Some women who were using it subsequently got pregnant! As to whether it has any effects on progesterone levels in women who are taking it, that remains to be seen. There is little or nothing in the historical record about the herb’s popular uses that would indicate that Dioscorea villosa has these effects, though they should perhaps not be discounted altogether. Manufacturers of products, such as topical creams and other preparations that claim to be effective hormone regulators, relieving undesirable symptoms that can occur with PMS and menopause, have been known to add synthetic progesterone to increase effectiveness. These products do use wild yam, soybeans, or other sources of raw compounds to synthesize progesterone, but that hardly means that they contain “natural progesterone.” For all the chemical solvents that touch the natural material, and all the steps of purification, it might as well be synthetic progesterone. Proper hormone balance comes from general health, and a number of herbs may help by providing a mild hormonal regulation, such as the herb vitex. Time will tell what action wild yam tincture or other whole-plant extracts have on the human hormonal system.

Wild Yam has a taste of SWEET, ACRID and a temperature of COOL.”

Historical Uses

Wild yam has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, especially by Native Americans and in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It was historically used to treat menstrual cramps, digestive issues, rheumatism, and labor pains. Wild yam roots were also valued for their anti-inflammatory and spasm-relieving properties.

Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths

Herbalists and naturopaths commonly use wild yam for:

• Menstrual and hormonal support: It is believed to alleviate menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
• Digestive health: Its antispasmodic effects are used for gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Inflammation and pain: Some practitioners use it to help manage joint pain, arthritis, or muscle cramps.

It is also marketed in creams and supplements, often linked to hormonal balance claims, although these are debated.

Chemistry

The main active component in wild yam is diosgenin, a steroidal saponin. Diosgenin serves as a precursor for the industrial synthesis of various steroid hormones like progesterone, cortisone, and estrogen in laboratories. However, the human body does not naturally convert diosgenin into hormones.

Other components include tannins, phytosterols, and alkaloids, contributing to its purported anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.

Pharmacology

• Anti-inflammatory: Diosgenin has shown anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in animal studies.
• Antioxidant: Research indicates that extracts of wild yam may have antioxidant effects.
• Antispasmodic: Traditionally used for its muscle-relaxing qualities, though the mechanism remains under-researched.

Safety

Wild yam is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses. However:

• Side effects: High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Precautions: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with hormone-sensitive conditions should use caution, as the hormonal claims are unsubstantiated.
• Drug interactions: Rare, but potential interactions with hormonal therapies should be noted.

Dosages

• Traditional preparations: 1-2 grams of dried root as a tea or decoction.
• Tinctures: 2-4 mL of a 1:5 tincture (1-3 times daily).
• Capsules/creams: Commercial doses vary based on formulation.

Consultation with a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider is recommended.

Clinical Trials

• Limited clinical trials exist for wild yam, with most evidence coming from in vitro or animal studies.
• A few studies explored diosgenin’s effects on bone health, lipid metabolism, and inflammation, showing promise but lacking large-scale human trials.
• Creams marketed as “natural progesterone” derived from wild yam are not supported by clinical evidence for hormone modulation.

Summary

Wild yam is a historically significant herb with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, primarily attributed to diosgenin. While popular in herbal and naturopathic medicine for hormonal and pain-related uses, clinical evidence for its effectiveness is limited. Further human studies are needed to validate its benefits and applications.