Wild Yam

At a Glance

Common name

Wild Yam

Scientific name

Dioscorea villosa

Family

Dioscoreaceae

Region

North America

Plant part

Root (rhizome)

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A climbing vine with heart-shaped pointed leaves in alternate arrangement and tiny greenish-yellow flowers, with a large knobby tuberous root — the part used and rich in diosgenin.

Also known as: Colic Root, Rheumatism Root, American Yam

Historical Background

Wild yam has been used by Native American peoples and early Eclectic physicians for digestive and women's comfort, and its diosgenin later became the source material for the first oral contraceptives. Brewed as a root decoction, it remains a tradition-rich women's and digestive herb.

Earliest recorded uses: Native American and early American Eclectic medicine for centuries; a digestive and women's herb; source of diosgenin for early steroid synthesis.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Earthy, starchy, slightly bitter

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Wild yam has a tradition for digestive and women's comfort. The body does not convert diosgenin to progesterone (a marketing myth). Clinical evidence is insufficient and it is not a treatment for menopause, PMS, or any disease.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.