What Is Wild Yam Good For?

The wild yam is an herb that grows as a vine with roots. Its roots have been used by the Chinese, Native Americans, Mexicans and Asians for centuries to improve health. The herb has also been used in the belief that it will help in matters of virility. While the wild yam does contain a form of progesterone, it usually takes a laboratory and scientists to make use of it since the human body cannot naturally convert it into progesterone.

Inflammation

Wild yams may have properties that help to relieve pain and inflammation. This is due to the wild yam's diosgenin, which has been commonly known to provide relief for stomach cramping and women's menstrual cycles. The cream of wild yam may also help arthritis pain.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Pain in the large intestine or the colon is commonly referred to as irritable bowel syndrome. It is characterized by gas, constipation and diarrhea. The wild yam herb may be used to ease this discomfort. The wild yam may also aid in the digestive process by dilating vessels and stimulating bile flow.

Cholesterol

The wild yam's beta carotene may help contribute to better cholesterol by removing the bad cholesterol. The beta carotene may be able to block the bad cholesterol in the body. People have generally shown reduced bad cholesterol in their bodies. They have commonly shown small increases in the good cholesterol as well.

Menopause

In menopause, the ovaries produce lower levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen. Some women experience symptoms such as hot flashes, joint pain, cramps and migraines. The diosgenin found in wild yams may help the female body to produce more progesterone. This might help the body rebalance its hormones and bring relief of such symptoms.

Skin Refresher

The wild yam may contain phyto-hormones that can help the skin keep a fresh look as the body ages. This may be due to its ability to lessen swelling. The herb is also said to moisturize and nourish skin as well. It is an ingredient in many herbal skin care creams.

Cost

Wild yam is available on the Internet and at health food stores in various forms for about $7 to $45, depending on the size and amount.

Side Effects

Wild yam should probably not be used if a woman is pregnant. Consultation with a doctor first is recommended. Children should also not be given this herb, or any herbal supplement, without first talking to a physician. Wild yam in large amounts may cause such reactions as vomiting and diarrhea. Some allergic responses include asthma.