Wild yam (dioscorea villosa) is a winding vine that grows wild in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
It has been found useful for conditions such as relieving painful menstrual cramps, relieving nausea associated with morning sickness, lowering cholesterol levels and more.
It is A Useful Herb for Female Complaints
As dioscorea villosa has antispasmodic qualities, it is good for conditions such as menstrual cramps, as it relaxes the uterine muscles, thus easing the pain. This is due, in part, to substances in this herb called alkaloids.
In women that are pregnant, it can help relieve the nausea associated with morning sickness, and can also help to prevent miscarriage.
It has been used by some as a natural contraceptive.
However, when taken for extended periods, it causes a temporary sterility that will end when the woman stops taking it.
It is not recommended this herb be used as a contraceptive, as it may not be effective in preventing pregnancy.
It may also prove helpful for endometriosis. This is because it causes increased production of HDL cholesterol in the blood.
This increases the transportation of oxygen and nutrients to the cells and the nervous system, thereby decreasing the symptoms of endometriosis.
It May Increase Good Cholesterol Levels
Dioscorea villosa may also help to alter cholesterol levels. One of its components, diosgenin appears to stop the absorption of cholesterol in the stomach, in animal research. Preliminary research indicates that it decreases levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing levels of HDL cholesterol.
In fact, if wild yam is used in conjunction with cholesterol-lowering medications, you may experience a greater reduction in your cholesterol levels.
Other Uses
Here are some other uses for dioscorea villosa:
Gallstones
Improved liver function
Irritable bowel syndrome
Lowering blood sugar levels in diabetics
Neuralgia
Pain relief
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sedative for calming the nerves
Recommended Dosages
Here are some recommended dosages for wild yam. When taken in capsule form, take 2-4 capsules daily. When taken as a tincture, take 1/8 to 1/2 teaspoon, 3 to 5 times daily.
Side Effects, Contraindications and
Drug Interactions
Although rare, you may experience an allergic reaction when taking wild yam.
It may also aggravate or promote peptic ulcers in some individuals. If you have a history of gastrointestinal problems, you should use this herb with caution.
There are limited reported contraindications regarding this herb. However, if you are currently taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills you should not take this herb.
In one animal study, it was learned that the active component of wild yam, diosgenin, could interact with estradiol, a naturally occurring hormone that is also used in certain birth control medicines and hormone replacement therapies.
In conclusion, dioscorea villosa is a good anti-spasmodic herb that may help relieve pain associated with different conditions, particularly female complaints.
As it may help lower cholesterol levels, especially when taken in conjunction with cholesterol-lowering medicines, it could prove useful in regulating this condition also. Remember; always talk to your physician before using this herb.
Wild yam (dioscorea villosa) is a winding vine that grows wild in Canada, Mexico and the United States. 
