Wild Yam – Treatment for Disease

Though Wild Yam has a long history of use as a woman’s herb, it also has several other benefits. One of its folk names is “colic root”. Wild Yam is considered an anti-spasmodic. This means that it is capable of relieving spasms including those in the intestines or those brought on by menstrual cramps, morning sickness and flu.
In herbal medicine, Wild Yam is an herb that has been used to relieve intestinal colic, soothe diverticulitis as well as dysmenorrhea, and uterine cramps and associated pain. Another benefit Wild Yam delivers is a very effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, especially when there is intense inflammation that is associated with the disease.
Herbalists have recommended Wild Yam herb for bilious colic, colic with spasmodic contractions, paroxysmal abdominal pain, yellow skin and conjunctiva, and stomach problems.
A recent study shows that Wild Yam can supply essential nutrients for optimal glandular function. It is said to nutritionally benefit the urinary, nervous and respiratory systems, too.
The primary chemical components of wild yam include steroidal saponins such as Dioscin, which becomes Diosgenin; Starch, Alkaloid and Tannins.  Wild Yam is also considered a mild diaphoretic, which can stimulate sweat glands.

Other Benefits

Another of the interesting health benefits of  Wild Yam is its role in increasing fertility. When taken in small doses such as 10 to 20 drops daily from the first day of menstrual bleeding to the middle of the month when ovulation occurs in women, it has actually been shown to increase fertility.
Whether or not one can use Wild Yam to stimulate ovulation is a matter of debate, but it is an established fact that Wild Yam helps regulate menstrual cycles and makes them more predictable and regular. It is likely that these attributes help increase a woman’s chances of fertility. It is thought that by taking it in small doses, it helps to ready the egg for fertilization.
It is also known that Wild Yam contains plant hormone precursors, which help in the production and balancing of progesterone and estrogen. The evidence suggests that these can sometimes help to prevent and to resolve breast cysts, and may be used as a nutritional support for breast cancer and fibroids. It is also useful in fighting endometrial cancer, and battling fluid retention, weight gain, depression and low thyroid function.
Taking Wild Yam also helps alleviate stress and inflammatory conditions as well. Wild Yam can normalize the production of the adrenal cortex hormones. The anti-stress and anti-inflammatory hormones help prevent inflammation and maintain joint integrity, such a benefit to those over 40 years of age.
Other uses of Wild Yam have included optimal digestion by dilating vessels and stimulating bile flow, as well as contributing to the reduction of cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
As you can see, Wild Yam benefits our health in a multitude of ways. Taking it in the right form, in the right dosage and at the right time will maximize its full potential and help us enjoy the  benefits of this  incredible herb.