Wild Yam, Dried
(also referred to as...)
Colic Root, Rheumatism Root
Latin Name: Dioscorea villosa
Family: Dioscoreaceae
Description
There are over 150 varieties of this plant and most of them are edible. Since its medicinal value is lost after one year, wild yam should be collected and prepared fresh every year. Until 1970, diosgenin (a female hormone precursor) derived from the mexican wild yam was the only source of the hormone material used to make the contraceptive pill. Today, it is still occasionally used as the start-up material in the manufacturing of steroidal preparations such as cortisone, sex hormones, "the pill", and anabolic hormones.
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.
Source
Root
Preparations
Decoction: Bring 3 cups water and 3 teaspoons root to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool, strain, and divide into 3 doses for the day.
Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops of tincture three times daily.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Wild yam should be avoided during pregnancy.
Ailment / Situation Listing
All information contained on this website is for reference purposes only and all content should be treated as a resource. It is highly recommended that you consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner when undertaking self-treatment. For serious conditions, always seek the advice of your naturopath or other health practitioner. People taking medication should
consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the information contained on this website. However, errors in copy may occur. You are advised to consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner
when applying the information contained on this website.
The MBR Team is not responsible or liable for any personal injury or related effects from applying the information contained on this website.
By browsing / printing any and all My Best Remedies articles / pages, you agree to the statements above.
