Organic Wild Yam Root (Dioscorea villosa) - US Grown

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Wild Yam Root (Dioscorea villosa)

Family:

Dioscoreaceae

Common Names:

Colic Root, Devil's Bones, Rheumatism Root

Origin:

Native to North America, particularly in the eastern United States and parts of Canada.

Parts Used:

Root (rhizome)

Habitat:

Wild yam thrives in rich, well-drained soils in woodlands, thickets, and along riverbanks. It prefers partial shade to full sun and is commonly found in USDA zones 5-9.

History and Folklore:

Wild yam has been used for centuries by Native Americans and early settlers for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating colic, menstrual cramps, and inflammation. The root was also used to relieve rheumatic pain and was considered a valuable remedy for women’s health issues. In traditional herbal medicine, wild yam was believed to balance hormones and support reproductive health.

Metaphysical Properties:

Wild yam is associated with healing, fertility, and balance. It is often used in rituals to promote physical healing, enhance fertility, and restore emotional and hormonal balance.

Botany:

Wild yam is a twining, herbaceous perennial vine that can grow up to 15 feet long. It has heart-shaped leaves with prominent veins and produces small, greenish-yellow flowers. The root, or rhizome, is the part used medicinally and contains a variety of bioactive compounds.

Growing and Harvesting:

Wild yam is typically grown from seeds or root divisions and prefers a location with partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. The root is harvested in the fall after the plant has died back. It is then cleaned, dried, and used in various herbal preparations.

Constituents:

• Diosgenin: A steroidal saponin that serves as a precursor for the synthesis of progesterone and other hormones.
• Saponins: Compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antioxidant properties.
• Alkaloids: Contribute to the plant’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
• Phytosterols: Plant compounds that support hormonal balance and overall health.
• Tannins: Provide astringent properties that help reduce inflammation and irritation.

Energetics:

• Temperature: Cooling
• Taste: Bitter, Astringent

Medicinal Actions:

• Antispasmodic: Relieves muscle spasms and cramps, particularly in the digestive and reproductive systems.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation throughout the body, particularly in the joints and digestive tract.
• Hormonal Balancer: Supports the balance of hormones, particularly in women, and may help alleviate symptoms of menopause and menstrual disorders.
• Digestive Aid: Eases digestive issues such as colic, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Emmenagogue: Promotes menstrual flow and can help regulate irregular periods.
• Analgesic: Provides pain relief, particularly for rheumatic conditions, menstrual cramps, and headaches.

System Affinities:

• Reproductive System: Supports women’s reproductive health, particularly in balancing hormones and relieving menstrual and menopausal symptoms.
• Musculoskeletal System: Eases joint pain and inflammation, particularly in conditions like arthritis and rheumatism.
• Digestive System: Relieves digestive discomfort, reduces spasms, and supports overall digestive health.
• Nervous System: Helps alleviate stress and tension, particularly when related to hormonal imbalances.

Uses:

• Tea: Wild yam root tea is commonly used to relieve menstrual cramps, digestive issues, and rheumatic pain.
• Tincture: Used for its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in treating menstrual and menopausal symptoms.
• Capsules/Tablets: Available as a supplement for systemic use, particularly for hormonal balance, pain relief, and digestive health.
• Topical Application: Wild yam cream is often used to alleviate joint pain, muscle cramps, and symptoms of menopause when applied to the skin.
• Infusion: Used as a natural remedy for various women’s health issues, including menstrual irregularities and menopause symptoms.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Wild yam should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions (e.g., breast cancer, uterine fibroids) should consult a healthcare provider before using wild yam due to its potential hormonal effects.
• Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to wild yam. Discontinue use if any signs of an allergic reaction occur, such as skin irritation or difficulty breathing.

Scientific Studies:

1. A study published in Phytotherapy Research highlighted the anti-inflammatory effects of wild yam, supporting its traditional use in treating arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
2. Research in The Journal of Reproductive Medicine explored wild yam’s potential to alleviate menopausal symptoms, particularly in balancing hormones and reducing hot flashes.
3. A study in The Journal of Ethnopharmacology confirmed the antispasmodic properties of wild yam, demonstrating its effectiveness in relieving menstrual cramps and digestive spasms.