Wild Yam

Major therapeutic interest

Other therapeutic interest / Traditional Use

• Treating spasms and colic;
• Relieving diverticulitis;
• Relieving menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea);
• Reducing arthritic and rheumatic pain;
• Easing menopause-related discomfort: topical use of ointment (vaginal dryness, hot flashes).

Cons-indications

• Breast or ovarian cancer, or if close relatives have been diagnosed with hormone-dependent cancers;
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• Obstruction or inflammation of gall ducts;
• Liver disease: hepatitis, cirrhosis, cancer;
• Protein S deficiency: risk of thromboembolic complications.

Parts used

Roots, tubercles (dried)

Main constituents

• Steroidal saponins (dioscine, diosgenine), phytosterols (beta-sitosterol).

Other names

Dioscorea villosa, Colic root