Today we are going to talk about an ingredient that is not well known, which is Wild Yam.

But, since wild yam is one of the ingredients used in our Vaginesse & Moisturizing Cream we decided to dive deeper into this natural ingredient, and dispel the truths from the myths.

So, what is wild yam?

First, wild yam is not the same thing as yam, or sweet potato.

Wild yam, yam, and sweet potato are three different plants, each belonging to a distinct botanical family.

Despite the similar names, they have notable differences in terms of botanical classification, appearance, taste, and usage.

Wild Yam General Differences:

Wild Yam (Dioscorea species)

Botanical Family

Wild yam belongs to the Dioscoreaceae family.

Look

Wild yam is a climbing vine with heart-shaped leaves and a twining stem. It produces tuberous roots that are starchy.

Usage

Historically, the tuberous roots of wild yam have been used in traditional medicine and as a food source.

It has been associated with women's health and hormonal balance, although scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited.

Yam (Dioscorea species)

Botanical Family

Yams belong to the Dioscoreaceae family, like wild yams.

Look

Yams can vary in appearance but are typically cylindrical with rough, scaly skin. They have starchy, often white, or orange-colored flesh.

Taste

Yams have a starchy and less sweet taste compared to sweet potatoes.

Usage

Yams are commonly used as a staple food in many countries, especially in Africa and Asia. They can be boiled, roasted, fried, or used in various culinary dishes.

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas)

Botanical Family

Sweet potatoes belong to the Convolvulaceae family, which is different from the Dioscoreaceae family of yams and wild yams.

Look

Sweet potatoes have smoother skin and are more variable in color, ranging from orange and purple to white. The flesh can be orange, purple, or white.

Taste

Sweet potatoes have a sweeter taste compared to yams, and the flavor can vary based on the type.

Usage

Sweet potatoes are a versatile vegetable used in various culinary applications. They can be baked, mashed, fried, or used in both savory and sweet dishes.

So, summarizing, even though wild yam, yam, and sweet potato share similar names and are starchy root vegetables, they belong to different botanical families, and have different looks and uses.

Wild yam is a climbing vine with potential medicinal uses, yams are starchy tubers used as a staple food in certain regions, and sweet potatoes are a distinct species with a sweeter taste and versatile culinary applications.

It's important to note the differences when discussing or using these plants in various contexts.

Back to Wild Yam

Wild yam refers to various species of yams (Dioscorea) that are native to North America, Mexico, and other parts of the world.

The term "wild yam" is often associated with the Dioscorea villosa species, which is native to North America and commonly known as wild yam or colic root.

Wild yam has been historically used in traditional medicine, and some people believe it offers various health benefits.

However, it's essential to note that scientific evidence supporting these claims is still limited, and the potential benefits of wild yam may vary.

Commonly Known Benefits of Wild Yam

Menstrual Symptoms

Wild yam has been traditionally used to address symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle, such as menstrual cramps and discomfort. Some believe that wild yam may have a calming effect on the uterus.

Menopausal Symptoms

Like its use for menstrual symptoms, wild yam has been suggested to help alleviate certain symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings. However, more research is needed to establish its effectiveness in this regard.

Hormonal Balance

There is a historical belief that wild yam may help support hormonal balance, particularly in women. This belief is based on the presence of diosgenin, a compound that is used in the synthesis of certain steroid hormones.

However, it's important to note that the human body does not naturally convert diosgenin from wild yam into hormones.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Some traditional practices use wild yam for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Diosgenin, a steroidal saponin found in wild yam, has been studied for its anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory settings.

Digestive Support

In traditional medicine, wild yam has been used to support digestive health. It is believed to have mild diuretic properties and may aid in digestion.

Antioxidant Effects

Diosgenin, found in wild yam, has been studied for its potential antioxidant effects. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, which are associated with various health issues.

Joint Health

Some traditional practices use wild yam for joint health, suggesting that it may help with conditions like arthritis. However, scientific evidence supporting this use is limited.

Wild yam contains certain compounds known as diosgenin and dioscin. These phytochemical compounds are classified as natural steroidal saponins and are often used in the production of synthetic steroids, including progesterone.

However, it is important to note that the body cannot convert diosgenin into hormones like progesterone on its own.

It's crucial to approach the use of wild yam products with caution and to rely on evidence-based information.

While wild yam has historical significance and is used in traditional medicine, its effectiveness for specific health purposes, especially hormonal balance, is not yet firmly established through scientific research.

More research is needed to establish its efficacy and safety for specific health purposes.

If considering the use of wild yam supplements, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, as well as to be aware of potential interactions with medications and other health considerations.

Wild Yam's potential side effects

The potential side effects of wild yam may vary from person to person. Here are some possible considerations:

Limited Scientific Evidence

Since the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of wild yam for specific health purposes is still limited, the level of effectiveness may vary from one individual to the other.

As stated above, while it contains diosgenin, a compound used in the synthesis of certain steroids, the human body does not naturally convert diosgenin from wild yam into hormones.

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may be allergic to wild yam or other plants in the Dioscorea genus. Allergic reactions can vary and may include symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

If you experience any allergic reactions, seek medical attention promptly.

Digestive Issues

In some cases, the consumption of wild yam or wild yam supplements may cause digestive issues such as stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea.

Interactions with Medications

Wild yam supplements may interact with certain medications, particularly those affecting hormonal balance.

If you are taking medications, especially hormone-related medications, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using wild yam supplements.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Due to the potential hormonal effects of wild yam, it is advisable for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals to exercise caution.

There is limited safety information regarding the use of wild yam during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before use.

Hormonal Effects

While wild yam contains diosgenin, a compound used in the production of some steroids, the body does not naturally convert diosgenin from wild yam into hormones.

Claims about wild yam's ability to influence hormone levels in the body are not yet well-supported by scientific evidence.

Quality and Purity of Supplements

If using wild yam supplements, it's important to choose products from reputable sources to ensure quality and purity. The manufacturing process and the inclusion of other ingredients in supplements can vary.

In Vaginesse we use wild yam root for its anti-inflammatory effects. It also provides a natural alternative to hormone balance therapy, although the effect may be different in each woman.

It's main purpose is to moisturize down there, provide natural soothing relief against dryness, itching, or irritation.

Conclusion

The historical use of wild yam for medicinal purposes dates to indigenous cultures in Native American tribes in North America, who are known to have used various parts of the wild yam plant for different medicinal ant therapeutic purposes such as digestive issues, women's health concerns and external applications for skin conditions.

One of the reasons for the interest in wild yam was the presence of diosgenin, a steroidal saponin found in the plant. Diosgenin is a precursor to certain hormones, leading to the belief that wild yam could influence hormonal balance.

However, it's important to note that the human body does not naturally convert diosgenin from wild yam into hormones.

While wild yam has a history of use in traditional medicine and herbalism, its efficacy for specific health purposes remains a subject of research and debate.

Scientific studies on the medicinal properties of wild yam have been limited, and the plant's role in modern herbal medicine is often discussed with caution.

It's crucial to approach the use of wild yam with care. If considering supplements, ensure their quality and purity before using.

 

Also, before using wild yam supplements or making significant changes to your dietary or health regimen, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

They can provide guidance based on your individual health status, potential interactions with medications, and the current state of scientific research.

This article was written by Gloria Albarran.