Summary
Wild yam: medicinal plant rich in certain phytohormones (vegetable hormones) that can have an effect on menopause, also indicated in cases of arthritis. It can be found, for example, in the form of capsules or tincture. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this plant, especially for internal use.
names
Name: Wild Yam, Air Yam, Chinese Yam, White Yam, Nigerian Yam, Mexican Yam.
Binomial name: Dioscorea spp. (This name refers to several species). In phytotherapy the species Dioscorea villosa is frequently used.
French name: Igname
English name: yam
Spanish name: ñame
Family
Dioscoreaceae
Constituents
Starch, sapogenins (plant steroids), diosgenin, alkaloids.
parts used
Roots and tubers.
Effects
Certain species of wild yam (ask your pharmacist), such as Dioscorea villosa
– Hormonal action (e.g. contraception, menopause)
– Analgesic
Indications
– Arthritis
– Diarrhea
– Menopause and pre-menopause
Attention, consult your doctor before using this plant, since it is composed of hormones.
Secundary effects
Consult your doctor or pharmacist, depending on the species there may be side effects.
contraindications
Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions
Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Preparations
– Tincture
– Capsule or pills
Where does wild yam grow?
This plant grows mainly in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, Oceania, Africa or South America.
Interesting Observations
It is estimated that there are around 600 species called yams in the world. In addition to the Dioscorea genus, some species of the Alocasia and Colocasia genera are also popularly known as yam, although they do not have phytotherapeutic similarities.
The root of the wild yam, a plant rich in starch (sugar) but low in protein, forms part of the diet of many Africans. Some experts criticize the diet based on yams, this food is not rich enough in protein, as well as other nutrients. Remember that a balanced and varied diet helps you live longer.
Thanks to diosgenin, a component of wild yam (as in the case of Dioscorea villosa, for example), researchers were able to synthesize progesterone (the first contraceptive) and cortisone.
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