Herbs - Wild Yam - Ailments / Situations Where Used

Due to the steroidal saponins found in the plant, wild yam makes an excellent antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory herb. It is used for colic, gall stones, menstrual cramps, and abdominal and intestinal cramps. Wild yam may be given in problems of gas and flatulence and works wonders when given for pains associated with diverticulosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and colitis.

Wild yam increases the flow of bile and helps remove any excess from the body. It is very handy when given to people with degenerative diseases as the plant assists liver function. Traditionally, wild yam has been given to women to ease menstrual cramping and for preventing miscarriage. It works quite favourably when given during the inflammatory stages of rheumatism and arthritis.

Wild yam's diuretic properties, combined with the plant's antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory actions, make for a well rounded treatment for painful urinary tract infections.