Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) is a plant that has long been used in herbal medicine traditions for various health purposes. In recent years, extracts from wild yam have become popular dietary supplements, due to emerging research on their potential benefits. But what does wild yam extract actually do? This article will explore the definition, uses, health benefits, safety considerations, and more around this natural compound.
Wild yam contains compounds like diosgenin that may offer certain health benefits when taken as a supplement. Products containing wild yam extract have been used traditionally for purposes like easing menstrual and menopause symptoms. Modern research also indicates extracts from this root could help with conditions like PMS, inflammation, digestive issues, and more. However, conclusive clinical evidence is still needed in many areas. As with any supplement, it's important to learn about safe usage and potential side effects before incorporating wild yam extract.
What is Wild Yam Extract?
Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) is a vine that grows wild in North America. It's sometimes called colic root or China root. For centuries, wild yam was used in traditional herbal medicine practices to treat gastrointestinal issues and pelvic pain. Today, the root of wild yam is processed to create extracts containing compounds like diosgenin. These extracts are taken in supplement form or used to manufacture steroid drugs. Wild yam extracts may also be found in some topical skin care products.
The key active components in wild yam extracts are saponins like diosgenin. Saponins give plants their bitter flavor and soap-like foaming ability. Diosgenin and related compounds are precursors to hormones like estrogen and progesterone in the body. However, contrary to some marketing claims, wild yam itself does not actually contain hormones. Rather, it contains precursors that may support natural hormone production when ingested.
Potential Health Benefits
A range of potential health benefits have been investigated for wild yam extracts:
1 Menopausal Symptoms
Since compounds in wild yam may influence hormone levels, extracts have traditionally been used to ease discomfort during menopause. Some herbalists claim it can help mitigate hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and other issues associated with menopause. So far, scientific evidence that wild yam acts like estrogen replacement therapy is lacking. But a few early studies show some efficacy for relief of menopausal symptoms.
2 PMS Relief
For similar reasons, wild yam products are also sometimes used to ease premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Limited evidence suggests it could help relieve cramping, breast pain, bloating and other monthly discomforts caused by fluctuations in hormones and inflammation.
3 Digestive Aid
Traditionally, wild yam was used to address various digestive complaints like nausea, vomiting, cramping and constipation. Its antispasmodic actions may help relax intestinal muscles and relieve discomfort related to digestion. Some herbalists also use it to increase bile production in people with sluggish digestion and poor fat absorption.
4 Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Preliminary research indicates extracts of wild yam may have anti-inflammatory properties. Compounds like diosgenin are believed to inhibit pro-inflammatory messengers in the body. By reducing excessive inflammation, wild yam supplements could offer protection against certain inflammatory conditions and diseases. However, high quality clinical trials are still needed.
5 Skin Care
Because of its proposed support for collagen production, antioxidants, and inflammation-fighting properties, some beauty companies have begun incorporating Dioscorea extracts into anti-aging skincare formulas. It's also sometimes found as an ingredient in products meant to soothe sensitive and irritated skin. At this time, quality research focused on the topical use of wild yam extract is limited.
Does Wild Yam Extract Help with Pain?
Traditionally, wild yam was used to address various types of pain, from stomach aches to rheumatism. Today, many herbalists recommend wild yam supplements to alleviate pain associated with arthritis, diverticulitis, IBS and menstrual cramps. Compounds like diosgenin may fight inflammation that often exacerbates pain. But clinical research is still emerging in this area. One small study did find a proprietary wild yam cream with diosgenin helped reduce osteoarthritic knee pain when applied topically twice a day. More research is underway.
Does Wild Yam Extract Increase Estrogen or Progesterone?
Contrary to prevalent marketing claims, wild yam does not contain any actual hormones. Rather, molecules called steroidal saponins and sapogenins act as precursors to sex hormones naturally made in the body – like estrogen, progesterone and DHEA. In theory, wild yam extracts could support healthy hormonal balance by providing building blocks used in natural hormone synthesis. However, definitive research showing increased hormone levels in humans from wild yam intake is lacking. A few small studies show supplements may help mitigate menopause symptoms linked to declining estrogen levels – but not likely by directly increasing hormone production. As of now, evidence that wild yam extract meaningfully raises sex hormone concentrations remains scant.
Safety and Considerations
When used appropriately, most healthy adults can safely take wild yam extract supplements short-term. Mild side effects like nausea or digestive distress are possible. Allergic reactions may occur in those with sensitivities to yams or similar plants.
Certain groups should exercise more caution with wild yam products:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women – due to lack of safety research for the developing fetus or infant. Compounds that influence hormones could be risky.
- Individuals on hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills – interactions are possible so medical oversight is advisable.
- People with kidney or liver conditions – the clearance of compounds in wild yam may be affected.
- Children or adolescents – safety has not been established for those under 18 years old. Effects on development are unknown.
To reduce risks, follow dosing instructions carefully and opt for high-quality standardized extracts from reputable supplement brands. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking wild yam if you take any medications or have underlying health conditions. Stop use immediately if any adverse effects develop.
Conclusion
Early folklore and emerging scientific research suggest wild yam extract could offer certain benefits – especially for inflammatory conditions, digestive upset, PMS and menopause discomforts. Its traditional use for these applications stretches back centuries. Compounds like diosgenin may influence inflammation, digestion, pain pathways and even natural hormone production to some degree. However, the extent of therapeutic effects from supplemental forms have yet to be conclusively proven or quantified through large scale human trials – despite rampant health claims associated with wild yam products. As with any supplement, exercise caution and consult a health practitioner to weigh potential benefits and risks before use.
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References:
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