Wild Yam, 2 fl oz
$16.99
$15.29
A traditional root loved by women's herbalists.
Curious about herbs that women have turned to for generations? Did you know wild yam root has long been used in traditional herbal practice in North America? Explore this time-honoured plant.
Wild yam is a twining vine native to North America and Mexico, and its knotty roots have a long history in traditional herbal medicine. Native American and later Western herbalists used it for digestive cramps and women's wellbeing. The root is rich in a plant compound called diosgenin, which scientists once used to make early hormone medicines in the laboratory. Today, wild yam is a popular herb for women who want to support comfort through monthly cycles and midlife changes.
Delivery: Ships from overseas. Usually arrives in 1 to 2 weeks.
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Benefits & common uses
Benefits
- Traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to support women's health
- Traditionally used to help relieve menstrual discomfort
- Traditionally used to help relieve symptoms of menopause
- Traditionally used to help relieve digestive cramps
- Traditionally used as a spasmolytic to help relieve muscle spasms
- Traditionally used to support general wellbeing in midlife
What people commonly use it for
- Period cramps and PMS symptoms (Traditional use)
- Hot flushes and midlife changes (Traditional use, with limited clinical evidence)
- Digestive cramps (Traditional use)
- Mild muscle tension (Traditional use)
- Vaginal dryness (topical creams) (Early research only)
Suggested to use alongside
- Maca: Traditional herb for women's vitality
- Evening primrose oil: Popular oil for women's wellbeing
- Magnesium: Essential mineral for general health
The science behind it
Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) contains steroidal saponins, with diosgenin the best known. In a laboratory, diosgenin can be chemically converted into steroid hormones such as progesterone. This is a well-established industrial process, and it is the source of the popular belief that wild yam acts as a natural hormone.
However, the human body does not have the enzymes needed to make this conversion. Taking wild yam by mouth or applying it to the skin does not directly raise progesterone levels. A small trial of wild yam cream (Komesaroff and colleagues, 2001, Climacteric) found no difference from placebo for menopausal symptoms.
Instead, wild yam is thought to act through gentler routes. Its saponins and other compounds may have a relaxing effect on smooth muscle, which fits with its traditional use for cramps. Some laboratory studies also suggest mild antioxidant and weak phytoestrogen-like activity, though human evidence is limited.
- Dried root and tea: traditional forms, with low amounts of diosgenin.
- Standardised extracts: provide more consistent amounts of saponins.
- Topical creams: used for skin application, with little evidence of systemic absorption.
Wild yam is not a nutrient, so its use rests on tradition rather than a deficiency.
Product details & ingredients
- Size: 2 fl oz
- Form: Liquid
Suggested Use
Shake Well, Take 2 droppers full (2ml), under the tongue 3 times daily or as desired.
Refrigerate after opening. Keep out of reach children.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
Supplier ref: Wild Yam - Tincture (2 Fl. Oz) Menopause, Rheumatism, Diuretic, Urinary Health
Common questions
What is wild yam used for?
It is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine for women's wellbeing, including menstrual comfort and midlife changes. It has also been used for digestive cramps.
Does wild yam contain progesterone?
No. It contains diosgenin, which can be converted to progesterone in a laboratory but not in the human body.
Is wild yam the same as the yam I eat?
No. Wild yam is a different species from the sweet potatoes and yams sold as food. Wild yam roots are bitter and used medicinally.
When is the best time to take wild yam?
It is usually taken with food, once or twice daily. Follow the label directions.
How long does wild yam take to work?
Herbal support is generally taken consistently for several weeks. Some women use it across a full menstrual cycle or two before assessing.
Can I take wild yam with other herbs?
It is often combined with herbs such as chaste tree, black cohosh or dong quai. Ask your health professional if you take medicines.
Safety
Seek advice before use in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and if you have a hormone-sensitive condition or take hormone therapy or the contraceptive pill. High amounts may cause nausea or stomach upset.
About the maker
This product comes from a smaller independent supplier. Supporting small and family-owned makers is a big part of what we do.
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